cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The effect of incremental distal gastric myotomy lengths on EGJ distensibility during POEM for achalasia

During peroral esophageal myotomy (POEM) for the treatment of achalasia, the optimal distal gastric myotomy length is unknown. In this study, we used a functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) to intraoperatively measure the effect of variable distal myotomy lengths on esophagogastric junction (EGJ) distensibility. EGJ distensibility index (DI) (minimum cross-sectional area divided by intrabag pressure) was measured with FLIP after each operative step. Each patient’s myotomy was performed in four increments from proximal to distal: (1) an esophageal myotomy (from 6 cm proximal to the EGJ to 1 cm proximal to it), (2) a myotomy ablating the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) complex (from 1 cm proximal to the EGJ to 1 cm distal to it), (3) an initial gastric extension (from 1 cm distal to the EGJ to 2 cm distal), and (4) a final gastric extension (from 2 cm distal to the EGJ to 3 cm distal). Measurements were taken in 16 achalasia patients during POEM. POEM resulted in an overall increase in DI (pre 1.2 vs. post 7.2 mm2/mmHg, p < .001). Initial creation of the submucosal tunnel resulted in a threefold increase in DI (1.2 vs. 3.6 mm2/mmHg, p < .001). When the myotomy was then performed in a stepwise fashion from proximal to distal, the initial esophageal myotomy component had no effect on DI. Subsequent myotomy extension across the LES complex resulted in an increase in DI, as did the initial gastric myotomy extension (to 2 cm distal to the EGJ). The final gastric myotomy extension (to 3 cm distal) had no further effect. During POEM, creation of the submucosal tunnel prior to myotomy resulted in a marked improvement in EGJ physiology. Myotomy extension across the LES complex and to 2 cm onto the gastric wall resulted in the normalization of EGJ distensibility, whereas subsequent extension to 3 cm distal to the EGJ did not increase compliance further.
Properties of Si x O y N z Films on Si

The properties of silicon nitride, oxynitride, and oxide films formed by the pyrolysis of various mixtures of , , and are presented. The variation in physical, optical, and electrical properties of this oxynitride series is examined. The electrical and passivation properties of these films on Si are examined and compared with oxides. These electrical data describe the general characteristics of nitride and oxynitride on top of Si and over thin (~300Aa) and thick (~1000Aa) thermal oxide films.
Principles of Fairness versus Human Welfare: On the Evaluation of Legal Policy

Our thesis is that the assessment of a legal policy should depend exclusively on its effects on human welfare, that is, on the well-being of individuals. In particular, no independent evaluative weight should be accorded to notions of fairness, such as corrective justice in tort and desert in punishment. (Concerns about the distribution of income are not, however, subject to our critique.) When the choice of legal rules is influenced by notions of fairness, individuals are often made worse off. Indeed, if the prescriptions of any notion of fairness are followed, it is always possible that everyone will be made worse off. Moreover, when we examine notions of fairness and the literature that advances them, we are unable to identify reasons that, on reflection, justify giving weight to these notions at the expense of individuals' well-being. Nevertheless, notions of fairness are widely felt to be appealing. We suggest that this appeal can largely be explained by three factors: notions of fairness often correspond to social norms that usefully regulate everyday life; notions of fairness may serve as proxy devices for achieving instrumental objectives; and individuals may have a taste for satisfaction of the notions. However, we explain that none of these factors warrants employing notions of fairness as independent evaluative principles in the assessment of legal policy. We develop these arguments through consideration of specific conceptions of fairness that are employed in major areas of law: tort, contract, legal procedure, and law enforcement. We also discuss the implications of our analysis for our primary audience, legal academics and other legal policy analysts, and also for government officials, notably legislators, regulators, and judges.
A delay generation technique for fast-locking frequency synthesizers

A delay generation technique applied to loop-bandwidth enhancement of frequency synthesizers is proposed for faster switching. PMOS transistors are used to provide large resistances and a diode-connected PMOS device generates the switch gate-bias voltage to reduce delay variations over process. An integer-N PLL employing the above technique for bandwidth enhancement is designed and simulated at 2.4GHz. It has a phase noise of -123dBc/Hz @ 1MHz offset. The lock time is 40/spl mu/s, and the tuning range is 200MHz.
Dipsogenic effects of excitatory amino acid agonists in pigeons.

Three excitatory amino acid agonists [N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), kainate and alpha-amino-2,3-dihyro-5-methyl-3-oxo-4-isoxalzolepropanoic acid], each selective for separate glutamate binding sites, were evaluated for dipsogenic responses in pigeons. NMDA and kainate produced a reliable and rapid drinking response (up to 30% of body weight over 3 hr). alpha-amino-2,3-dihyro-5-methyl-3-oxo-4-isoxalzolepropanoic acid, up to doses which produced profound effects on motor behavior (18.0 mg/kg i.m.), did not produce a reliable drinking response. The dipsogenic effects of NMDA and its stereoisomer, N-methyl-L-aspartate, were antagonized by the competitive NMDA antagonist, cis-4-(phosphonomethyl)-2-piperidinecarboxylic acid. cis-4-(phosphonomethyl)-2-Piperidinecarboxylic acid failed to prevent drinking produced by kainate or water deprivation. These results suggest that NMDA-, kainate- and water deprivation-induced drinking are mediated via separate mechanisms and that NMDA induced drinking is mediated via NMDA receptors.
Chasing Edgar: The Tourist Rhetoric of the Poe Bicentennial

Edgar Allan Poe’s 200 th birthday meant big business for the retail and tourism industries. The popular clothing merchant Urban Outfitters marketed exclusive ladies’ T-shirts featuring quotations from “Alone” and “The Raven,” as well as a men’s “Edgar Allen Poe” [sic] tee emblazoned with a screen print of the author, framed by a reclining skeleton. All styles were, naturally, available in just one color—black. The U.S. Postal Service released a commemorative forty-two-cent portrait stamp, accompanied by a “limited edition commemorative copy” of “The Raven,” advertised with the less-than-catchy slogan “The Edgar Allan Poe Stamp: for Now, Not Nevermore.”1 And six American locales (Baltimore, Philadelphia, Boston, New York, Richmond, and Sullivan’s Island) attracted literary pilgrims wishing to celebrate Poe’s bicentennial in style. From a historical standpoint, it is not surprising that such a large number of locales would try to lay claim to the author’s legacy. Though it is difficult to accurately track every move that Poe made throughout his lifetime, he, his wife Virginia, and her mother Maria Clemm occupied numerous homes in several cities. Their home life included moves from Baltimore to Richmond, from Richmond to New York City, from there to Philadelphia, and back to New York City, with several intra-city relocations.2 Through these moves, Poe unwittingly studded the East Coast with homes, commemorative plaques, statues, and other monuments to his legacy. Unlike Mark Twain, whose boyhood home of Hannibal, Missouri, appears in Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn, or Henry David Thoreau, who penned Walden at Walden Pond in Concord, Massachusetts, Poe’s life and work elude obvious associations with a particular point-of-origin or “home.” That is to say, they foil the “pursuit of the writer by the reader,” resisting the literary pilgrim’s longing for “the communication between readers and writers, mediated through the house and the objects it contains.”3 Poe’s tales and poems often take place in fantastical, ambiguous locales, unconnected to any identifiable originals. The houses he once occupied, now museums, feature few, if any, objects that belonged to Poe or his family—most of his personal effects were lost or sold during his many moves.
Up-regulation of the low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein by dexamethasone in HepG2 cells

Abstract Dexamethasone has been shown to decrease the expression of the low density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor, but its effect on other members of the LDL receptor family is not known. We studied the effect of dexamethasone in HepG2 cells on the expression of the LDL receptor family members using radiolabeled receptor associated protein (RAP) which binds to all the members of the family. Treatment of HepG2 cells with increasing concentrations of dexamethasone resulted in a 2-fold increase in the binding and degradation of RAP. To identify the receptor responsible for the increased binding and degradation of RAP, we used specific ligands. For LDL receptor, we used LDL itself. For the LDL receptor-related protein/ α 2 -macroglobulin receptor, we used activated α 2 -macroglobulin. The binding of LDL to HepG2 cells was decreased, whereas binding and degradation of activated α 2 -macroglobulin was increased by 2-fold suggesting that dexamethasone increased LRP expression. Increased LRP expression was positively correlated with the increase in the steady-state levels and transcript numbers of the LRP mRNA; no changes in RAP or Λ-actin mRNA levels were observed. Increased mRNA levels were not due to an increased rate of transcription of the gene as assessed by nuclear run-on experiments. These studies indicate that dexamethasone increases cell-surface LRP activity in HepG2 cells by increasing the steady state mRNA levels and suggest that post-transcriptional mechanisms play a role in controlling LRP mRNA levels.
Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy for the Lower Extremities in Multiple Sclerosis: Case Series With 4-Year Follow-Up

Abstract Objective To evaluate in a preliminary manner the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of Constraint-Induced Movement therapy (CIMT) of persons with impaired lower extremity use from multiple sclerosis (MS). Design Clinical trial with periodic follow-up for up to 4 years. Setting University-based rehabilitation research laboratory. Participants A referred sample of ambulatory adults with chronic MS (N=4) with at least moderate loss of lower extremity use (average item score ≤6.5/10 on the functional performance measure of the Lower Extremity Motor Activity Log [LE-MAL]). Interventions CIMT was administered for 52.5 hours over 3 consecutive weeks (15 consecutive weekdays) to each patient. Main Outcome Measures The primary outcome was the LE-MAL score at posttreatment. Secondary outcomes were posttreatment scores on laboratory assessments of maximal lower extremity movement ability. Results All the patients improved substantially at posttreatment on the LE-MAL, with smaller improvements on the laboratory motor measures. Scores on the LE-MAL continued to improve for 6 months afterward. By 1 year, patients remained on average at posttreatment levels. At 4 years, half of the patients remained above pretreatment levels. There were no adverse events, and fatigue ratings were not significantly changed by the end of treatment. Conclusions This initial trial of lower extremity CIMT for MS indicates that the treatment can be safely administered, is well tolerated, and produces substantially improved real-world lower extremity use for as long as 4 years afterward. Further trials are needed to determine the consistency of these findings.
Hypotheses for the evolution of dioecy in seed plants

Abstract Over the last decade, new hypotheses have been proposed for the evolution of dioecy in plants. Most of the selective mechanisms invoked have been suggested and supported by phylogenetic correlations. Here we review (1) the validity of the correlations (especially in light of recent critiques of the comparative method), and (2) the conformity of the proposed mechanisms to empirical data. None of the hypotheses can be flatly rejected on existing evidence, but the strength of their support varies. Future correlational studies must explicitly consider phylogeny; more importantly, such broad studies should also be supplemented by detailed studies of particular transitions to dioecy (e.g. within genera) — studies of the sort that have clarified analogous issues such as heterostyly.
Preparation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor- and neurotrophin-3-secreting Schwann cells by infection with a retroviral vector

One reason that the central nervous system of adult mammals does not regenerate after injury is that neurotrophic factors are present only in low concentrations in these tissues. Recent studies have shown that the application of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) acts to encourage the regrowth of motor and sensory fibers after spinal cord injury. Other studies have reported that the regrowth of axons after injury was enhanced by the implantation of Schwann cells, which normally secrete BDNF and NT-3. The purpose of the present study was to genetically modify Schwann cells to secrete increased amounts of BDNF or NT-3 by infection with a retroviral vector. Retroviral vectors were constructed by the ligation of BDNF or NT-3 cDNA to the LXSN vector. Viruses were generated from the plasmid forms of the vectors by transient transfection of PA317 amphotrophic retroviral packaging cells. Viruses were harvested and used to infect the human Schwann cell line designated NF-1T. Northern blot analysis of poly (A+) RNA prepared from Schwann cells that were infected with BDNF- or NT-3-containing virus showed the presence of BDNF or NT-3 mRNA. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for BDNF and NT-3 was performed on media the cells were grown in, and on cellular extracts prepared from the BDNF- and NT-3-infected Schwann cells. The ELISA results demonstrated that the Schwann cells were secreting increased levels of immunologically active BDNF or NT-3. Immunocytochemical staining of these cells revealed the presence of these two neurotrophic factors located in perinuclear granules. These neurotrophic factor-secreting Schwann cells are currently being evaluated for their efficacy in the treatment of spinal cord injury.
Paternal mouthbrooding in the black-chinned tilapia, Sarotherodon melanotheron (Pisces: cichlidae): changes in gonadal steroids and potential for vitellogenin transfer to larvae.

The black-chinned tilapia (Sarotherodon melanotheron) is a paternal mouthbrooder. Pairs of adult black-chinned tilapia were raised in freshwater and the males were sampled during the mouthbrooding cycle. Sampling also occurred 10 days after release of the free-swimming fry for comparison. During the first week of incubation of the eggs, total androgens and estradiol were low ( 0.6 ng estradiol/ml). The plasma concentrations of vitellogenin (VTG) in male parents changed during mouthbrooding, with decreases occurring between egg pickup and hatching of the embryo (Day 6 of mouthbrooding). The pattern of change in concentrations of VTG in surface mucus of male parents differed from the pattern in plasma, with peak concentrations occurring at the time of hatching. The amount of VTG in mucus was similar to that measured in the female Oreochromis mossambicus during mouthbrooding of embryos. The appearance of peak VTG levels in the mucus at the time of hatching when plasma levels have declined and the availability of comparable amounts of mucus VTG in both maternal and paternal mouthbrooding tilapia, despite unequivalent plasma levels, support the possibility that parental provisioning of the young occurs during mouthbrooding in tilapia.
The Design and Use of a Photochemical Flow Reactor: A Laboratory Study of the Atmospheric Chemistry of Cyanoacetylene on Titan

The laboratory investigation of the atmospheric photochemistry of planets and satellites is mainly carried out in static systems. These studies are often poor models of chemical processes in atmospheres because: (1) much higher mixing ratios of minor constituents must be used to accurately determine the amount of reactant consumed and to obtain sufficient products for analysis, (2) secondary photolysis of the initial photoproducts often occurs, (3) wall reactions occur, and (4) most of the starting material is converted to products to obtain enough for spectroscopic analysis. The use of a photochemical flow reactor either circumvents or minimizes these problems by using gas mixtures and photolysis conditions more representative of a planetary atmosphere. A gas mixture, composed of a small amount of a reactant gas diluted in a much larger amount of carrier gas, is flowed past a UV lamp for an extended period of time. Unconsumed reactants and products are collected in traps downstream until amounts sufficient for spectral analysis are collected. FTIR and NMR analysis provides structural information and quantitative data on their rates of formation. The feasibility of this approach for the investigation of planetary atmospheres has been demonstrated by the photolysis of mixing ratios of 10 i3 ‐10 i6 of cyanoacetylene, (2-propynenitrile, HC3N) in nitrogen gas. Hydrogen cyanide (HCN), acetonitrile (CH3CN), acrylonitrile (CH2CHCN), and a polymer have been identified as reaction products. The quantum yields for reactant loss and product formation have been determined. Aspects of polymer structure have been determined by FTIR. Its empirical formula has been determined on the basis of the reaction products produced, and its morphology has been examined by scanning electron microscopy. It is concluded from the high quantum yields for HCN and CH3CN formation that the C/N ratio of the polymer is high. This was confirmed by infrared analysis of the polymer where it was observed that the intensity of the C·N stretching frequency decreases as the HC3N mixing ratio is lowered to a mixing ratio closer to that of Titan. c ∞ 2000 Academic Press
Time-Resolved Raman Scattering In Group III-V And Group IV Semiconductors

Some applications of picosecond, time-resolved Raman scattering in the field of nonequilibrium semiconductor physics are reviewed. A brief, nonexhaustive survey of progress in this field over the past 10 years serves to introduce the general experimental techniques and to indicate the range of physical phenomena that have been studied. More detailed coverage of work on nonequilibrium coupled plasmon-LO phonon modes in InP and GaAs and of optical phonon dynamics in Ge and GeSi alloys is given. Emphasis is placed on comparing the use of picosecond Raman scattering to study nonequilibrium phenomena in group IV and group III-V semiconductors.
Peripheral and Spinal Inputs to Physiologically Identified Thalamic and Nonthalamic Relay Neurons in Cat Cuneate Nucleus

A single-unit population study of the feline cuneate nucleus was carried out to identify principal neuron types, their distribution within the nucleus, pattern of peripheral activation, and receptive field characteristics. Units were also tested for response to isolated dorsal column or dorsolateral funicular electrical stimulation. The nucleus was explored in a uniform pattern, and sample size was optimized by applying the search stimulus shocks to the dorsal spinal cord. Single units were defined as spinal afferents, cuneothalamic-relay (CTR) neurons, and non-cuneothalamic-relay (non-CTR) neurons. The following features were observed: (1) The distribution within the nucleus of specific cell types agreed with cytoarchitectural studies: Spinal afferent fibers were superficial and caudal; 22% of neurons were CTR neurons; CTR neurons were most dense in the middle of the nucleus and were largely separate from non-CTR neurons. (2) Of the 58 neurons tested for response to isolated dorsal column and dorsolatera...
Life Beyond 60 Years: The Importance of Sustaining the Current Fleet of Light Water Reactors in the U.S. and the R&D Needs

The current fleet of 104 nuclear power plants in the U.S. began their operation with 40 years operating licenses. About half of these plants have their licenses renewed to 60 years and most of the remaining plants are anticipated to pursue license extension to 60 years. With the superior performance of the current fleet and formidable costs of building new nuclear power plants, there has been significant interest to extend the lifetime of the current fleet even further from 60 years to 80 years. This paper addresses some of the key long term technical challenges and identifies R&D needs related to the long term safe and economic operation of the current fleet.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Testicular function after orchiopexy

Twelve adult mongrel dogs underwent unilateral division of the spermatic vessels and contralateral testicular revascularization to compare the effect of these techniques on histology of the testes. Testicular weight reduced to average 6.5 Gm (normal 20 +/- 5 Gm) where division of the vessels was performed. The contralateral side maintained its weight and configuration (average weight 22.5 Gm). Histologic changes occurred in nonrevascularized testes indicating atrophy and hence inadequate blood perfusion for testicular survival. Sperm density was reduced, but only vas deferens draining the revascularized testis contained spermatozoa.
The Predictive Value of a Cystocele for Concomitant Vaginal Apical Prolapse

Purpose: Recent studies showing a correlation between descent of the anterior and apical vaginal compartments suggest that cystoceles may recur if associated apical prolapse is not corrected. However, to date the anatomical relationship of apical prolapse with respect to cystocele has been incompletely reported. We present the predictive value of a cystocele for clinically significant vaginal apical prolapse.Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the records of all new patient visits to a urogynecology clinic in a 30-month period. Women with a point Ba value of −1 or greater (stage 2 cystocele and above) were included in analysis. Predictive values of clinically significant apical prolapse, defined as point C −3 or greater, were calculated and stratified by cystocele stage.Results: A total of 385 women were included in study. Point Ba was the leading edge of prolapse in 83.9% of cases. The position of Ba strongly correlated with that of the vaginal apex (Spearman ρ = 0.769, p <0.001). Overall ...
Geochemical Evolution of a Surface Mine Lake with Alkaline Ash Addition: Field Observations vs. Laboratory Predictions

In the Eastern Middle Anthracite field of Pennsylvania, a formerly acidic (pH = 3.6) surface mine lake (initially approximately 45,000m3 in volume) is being reclaimed using fluidized bed combustor (FBC) ash. The pH of the water in the pit dramatically increased when the alkaline ash was added. The pH of the water is now well buffered, and has not dropped below a value of 11.0 since March 2000. Analysis of data from samples collected over the past six years indicate that the lake’s alkalinity is controlled by carbonate, silicate, and hydroxide reactions. The relative importance of these factors varies with ash input, and can be determined in a predictable fashion. Laboratory tests determined that the mass of CaO was more significant than the particle surface area on the pH of the solution. Using only alkaline material, the transition between caustic and carbonate alkalinity was apparent, though this did not account for interaction with silicate minerals, which should be considered when using alkaline ash for reclamation. Field data indicate that with time, the pH will again decrease but will be buffered by calcite present on both the upper walls of the mine pool and within pores of the FBC ash. Less than 1% of the ash is currently used to increase the pH and alkalinity, so a large reserve exists for long term buffering capacity.
Intermediate W bosons, gauge fields, and the nonleptonic weak decays☆

Abstract Following the analysis of Nishijima and Sato, we use the chiral symmetric gauge field model to compute the s-wave amplitudes of the nonleptonic weak decays. It is pointed out that the weak interaction Lagrangian which has been derived from the assumption of octet W bosons is consistent with experiment. The p-wave amplitudes of the nonleptonic hyperon decay are obtained by using the sum rule that has been derived by the author. The result for both s- and p-wave amplitudes, which is a theoretical prediction with no adjustable parameter, is in fair accord with the experimental data.
Mechanism of the negative inotropic action of cocaine in rat papillary muscle.

Abstract We studied the mechanism of the negative inotropic action of cocaine in isolated rat papillary muscles superfused with Tyrode′s solution at 31°C while attached to a force transducer to measure peak tension developed (PTD), maximum velocity of development of tension (Vmax T), and time to peak tension (TPT). The results show that in preparations driven at 1 Hz, 5 and 10 mg/liter cocaine had a significant negative effect only on PTD, while 20 mg/liter (58 μM) significantly depressed all three measured parameters. Similar results were obtained in preparations driven at 0.5 Hz, which developed a greater control active tension than those driven at 1 Hz. In preparations driven at 0.5 Hz, propranolol (1 μM) had no significant effect on the active tension developed nor did it modify the negative inotropic action of cocaine. Both nifedipine (1 μM) and caffeine (1.5 mM), on the other hand, significantly reduced PTD, Vmax, T, and TPT. The depressant inotropic action of cocaine was accentuated by nifedipine, but was blocked by caffeine. These observations suggest that the primary site of action of cocaine was at the level of the sarcoplasmic reticulum rather than at the sarcolemma.
Graduate proficiency assessment using a competency-based learning model.

Objective: The goal of this study was to evaluate and compare occupational health and safety graduates' perceptions of the value of and their proficiency in 29 educational competencies. Methods: A survey was mailed to 159 students graduating between 1992 and 2005. Results: Ninety-eight graduates (62 % response) ranked all 29 competencies as valuable or very valuable. Graduates reported high proficiency in the competencies they most highly valued. The greatest discrepancy between value and proficiency occurred in competencies related to managing resources, programs, and personnel. Results were similar to those of a 2001 survey. Competencies identified by occupational health and safety professionals in 49 countries were very similar to those included in our set. Conclusions: We made changes in the curriculum to address graduates' reports of low proficiency in resource, program, and personnel management.
Imaging characteristics of dry age-related macular degeneration.

Purpose: To review the current literature regarding the imaging characteristics of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) lesions, with a special focus on drusen and geographic atrophy imaging. We also explore the role of novel approach of hyperspectral imaging in AMD.Methods: Review of current literature as well as findings in a small group of patients imaged with hyperspectral imaging.Results: The use of optical coherence tomography, and especially fourier-domain devices, has enhanced our ability to classify various lesions of dry AMD. The increasing role of autofluorescence in characterization and prognostication in geographic atrophy is reviewed. The advances made in automated detection and multimodal imaging are highlighted, with their potential to revolutionize this area of research.Conclusions: Recent advances in retinal imaging have improved our understanding of the characteristics and prognostication of dry AMD, with an increasing role for multimodal imaging and image correlations. The potent...
Studies on copper metabolism. XXV. Relationship between serum and liver copper.

Summary1. Dietary restriction of copper in adult rats was followed by prompt decrease in serum copper and a somewhat slower and less extensive depletion of liver copper. 2. Feeding of diets high in copper was followed by increase in concentration of copper in both serum and liver. The increase occurred more rapidly in serum than in liver during the first 20 days. Thereafter, rate of increase was greater in liver than in serum. 3. It is concluded that concentration of copper in serum and liver is markedly influenced by dietary intake of copper and that there is a close correlation between serum and liver copper concentrations.
Successful Treatment of an Iatrogenic Infrarenal Aortic Dissection with Serial Wallstents

We report a patient who presented with acute lower extremity ischemia 13 days following removal of an intraaortic balloon pump. Dissection of the infrarenal aorta, extending into the left iliac artery, was found at operation. The patient's recent myocardial infarction, prolonged ischemia with compartment syndrome, otherwise normal aortoiliac and infrainguinal arteries and the necessity for suprarenal aortic clamping for surgical repair, were all factors in the decision for endovascular repair of the dissection. Infrarenal aortic and left iliac Wallstents, placed intraoperatively, successfully occluded the false lumen of the dissection. The patient was discharged after an uncomplicated recovery and is asymptomatic with palpable pedal pulses and triphasic pedal Doppler waveforms 1 year following the procedure.
Clinical characteristics and surgical outcomes of patients presenting with meningiomas arising predominantly from the floor of the middle fossa.

Background Little is known regarding meningiomas that primarily arise from the floor of the middle fossa as opposed to the sphenoid wing, the cavernous sinus, the anterior petrous ridge, or the lateral convexity dura. Objective Given the relative paucity of literature addressing this disease entity, we review the University of California at San Francisco (UCSF) experience with these tumors. Methods Between 1991 and 2006, 1228 patients were seen by neurosurgeons at UCSF for meningiomas of which 17 (1.1%) patients met our criteria for a "middle fossa floor" meningioma, of which 15 underwent first-time surgery and were included in this series. The most common presenting symptoms were headache (9 patients), seizures (6 patients), trigeminal nerve dysfunction (5 patients), hearing loss (5 patients), gait disturbance (5 patients), and cognitive decline (3 patients). All patients underwent surgical resection via frontotemporal craniotomy, with or without orbitozygomatic osteotomy. Results We were able to achieve a Simpson grade 1 or 2 resection in 10 of 15 patients (67%). The operative morbidity was clustered in 5 patients, as 10 of 15 patients (67%) experienced no operative morbidity. There were 4 known clinical recurrences in this group at 5 years median follow-up. All patients had either higher grade tumors, or received a Simpson grade 3 or higher resection. Conclusion We present the clinical characteristics and surgical outcome of a series of patients presenting with meningiomas primarily arising from the concave floor of the middle cranial fossa. Given the relatively uncommon nature of these lesions, more investigation into the clinical behavior of this entity is warranted.
AML1 (CBFα2) Cooperates with B Cell-specific Activating Protein (BSAP/PAX5) in Activation of the B Cell-specific BLK Gene Promoter

AML1 plays a critical role during hematopoiesis and chromosomal translocations involving AML1 are commonly associated with different forms of leukemia, including pre-B acute lymphoblastic leukemia. To understand the function of AML1 during B cell differentiation, we analyzed regulatory regions of B cell-specific genes for potential AML1-binding sites and have identified a putative AML1-binding site in the promoter of the B cell-specific tyrosine kinase gene, blk. Gel mobility shift assays and transient transfection assays demonstrate that AML1 binds specifically to this site in the blk promoter and this binding site is important for blk promoter activity. Furthermore, in vitro binding analysis revealed that the AML1 runt DNA-binding domain physically interacts with the paired DNA-binding domain of BSAP, a B cell-specific transcription factor. BSAP has been shown previously to be important for B cell-specific regulation of the blk gene. Physical interaction of AML1 with BSAP correlates with functional cooperativity in transfection studies where AML1 and BSAP synergistically activate blk promoter transcription by more than 50-fold. These results demonstrate physical and functional interactions between AML1 and BSAP and suggest that AML1 is an important factor for regulating a critical B cell-specific gene, blk.
Deflecting sigmoid adhesions: an anatomic cause of chronic pelvic pain and irritable bowel syndrome

Abstract Background: The sigmoid colon is often attached to the pelvic sidewall through filamentous and fibrous adhesions. Although these tissue attachments are considered normal, they often can deflect the course of the colon as it enters the pelvis, which might cause symptoms. Objective: To evaluate the possible relationship between deflecting sigmoid adhesions, chronic pelvic pain, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Methods: One hundred forty-six women were evaluated at laparoscopy for chronic pelvic pain. Sigmoid attachments were graded by degree of deflection (1 = mild, 2 = moderate, 3 = severe) and cut to return the bowel to a position of minimal deflection. Results: Thirty-eight percent of patients had deflecting sigmoid adhesions, often in association with endometriosis. However, deflecting sigmoid adhesions were the only abnormality found in 23% of cases, and 80% of these women reported significant reduction in symptoms at 6-, 12-, and 18-month follow-up. Several of these women were referred because of failed treatment for irritable bowel syndrome. Women with endometriosis reported more gastrointestinal symptoms when a deflecting sigmoid adhesion also was present. Conclusion: Deflecting sigmoid adhesions were common in this group of women with chronic pelvic pain and frequently were associated with gastrointestinal symptoms. Further investigation of this entity is warranted.
Inhibitory and excitatory effects of dopamine on carotid chemoreceptors

The effect of intravenous dopamine on carotid body chemoreceptor activity was investigated in 6 anesthetized cats which were paralyzed and artificially ventilated. Studies were performed at 4 steady-state PaO2 levels at a constant PaCO2 and at 4 levels of PaCO2 during hyperoxia. Dopamine inhibited carotid chemoreceptors before and excited them after haloperidol. Moderate stimulation of the receptors by hypoxia and hypercapnia augmented dopamine's effects. These results indicate that both inhibitory and excitatory dopamine receptors are present in the carotid body.
The control of brucellosis in tropical and subtropical regions

Abstract Brucellosis is perhaps the most widespread and economically important of the zoonotic diseases in tropical and subtropical regions. Its control and eradication are difficult because of many technical and other aspects of the disease. Ancient practices such as nomadism, community grazing by livestock, and modern changes toward larger animal populations and increased commerce cause additional problems. Importation of high producing livestock due to demands for additional animal protein create special difficulties. Slaughter of valuable diseased animals is often impractical. Reduction of brucellosis under most conditions is best accomplished by widespread use of vaccines. Many modifications of environment, livestock management, social customs and resources will be necessary before many countries can consider eradication programs.
On the Perron-Frobenius eigenvector for nonnegative integral matrices whose largest eigenvalue is integral

Abstract We first derive the bound | det ( λI − A )|⩽ λ k − λ k 0 ( λ 0 ⩽ λ ), where A is a k × k nonnegative real matrix and λ 0 is the spectral radius of A . If A is irreducible and integral, and its largest nonnegative eigenvalue is an integer n , then we use this inequality to derive the upper bound n k −1 on the components of the smallest integer eigenvector corresponding to n . Finer information on the components is also derived.
Ethnicity and gender in relation to adaptive functioning, diagnostic status, and treatment outcome in children from an anxiety clinic

Abstract Research documenting prevalence of nonclinical fears and anxiety in children has consistently reported gender differences: girls generally report a greater number of fears than boys. Little research has examined the fears and anxieties of minority group children, although some suggest that Caucasian children experience fewer fears than African American children. The present study explored gender and ethnic differences in the experience of clinical levels of anxious symptomatology in 178 children ages 9–13 referred to an anxiety disorders clinic. Treatment sensitivity across gender and ethnicity was studied in 81 children who were diagnosed with a DSM-III-R childhood anxiety disorder. Results indicated that in clinically anxious youth, prevalence and intensity of fears, as rated by the child, parent, teacher, and clinical diagnostician, did not differ as a function of gender or ethnicity. Content of these fears was highly similar for both genders and ethnicities. A cognitive-behavioral treatment intervention for anxiety-disorders produced similar reductions in anxious symptomatology and presence of an anxiety disorder diagnosis across ethnicity and gender. Results are discussed in the context of similarities across gender and ethnicity for clinical levels of anxiety and treatment sensitivity.
Detection of Pure Rotational H2 Emission from the Supernova Remnant IC 443: Further Evidence for a Partially Dissociating J-Shock

We present the first observation of the pure rotational 0-0 S(2) line of H2, at 12.28 μm, from the supernova remnant IC 443. In combination with near infrared observations, the pure rotational emission effectively differentiates between broad classes of shock model. A J-shock, in which H2 is partially dissociated, propagating into gas with H2 density of 4 × 103 cm-3 provides a good fit to the observed H2 level populations but cannot be reconciled with the shock velocity inferred from H2 line profiles. The relative H2 level population in IC 443 and Orion Peak 1, discovered to be essentially identical for upper state energies E/k > 6000 K by Richter, Graham, and Wright, is identical for the 0-0 S(2) line at E/k = 1681.6 K, suggesting that the underlying nature of the two shocks as traced by H2 observations is identical.
Analysis of compounds containing the p-nitroaniline phosphor and analogous groups by phosphorimetry and by room-temperature and low-temperature fluorimetry

Abstract Since aromatic nitro compounds usually give pour absorption spectra and do not fluoresce and since the nitrophenylhydrazines are useful colorimetric reagents for analysis of a wide variety of compounds, the phosphorimetric properties and the room-temperature and low-temperature fluorimetric properties of these types of compounds were investigated. Results snowed that 4-nitrophenylhydrazine could be a valuable reagent for the analysis of aromatic carbonyl compounds present in auto exhaust fumes and that low-temperature fluorimetric trace analysis is a tool well worth exploiting. Most of the aliphatic aldehyde and ketone 4-nitrophenylhydrazones are non-fluorescent but strongly phosphorescent, whereas many of the aromatic aldehyde and ketone 4-nitrophenylhydrazones are nonphosphorescent but strongly fluorescent in solvents of low dielectric constant and are highly fluorescent in all types of solvents at liquid-nitrogen temperatures. Examples are given of compounds that are neither fluorescent at room temperature nor phosphorescent but are intensely fluorescent at liquid-nitrogen temperatures. Phosphorimetry and low-temperature and room-temperature fluorimetry are three powerful complementary tools, much more valuable when used together in trace analytical research than when used singly.
Heat and salt inhibition of gas hydrate formation in the northern Gulf of Mexico

[1] High-resolution geophysical and geochemical data collected at two focused flux sites in the northern Gulf of Mexico reveal significant heterogeneity in salinities, thermal regimes, and fluid flow. Upward advection beneath mud mounds carries large amounts of gas, along with heat and dissolved ions, to shallow levels. Despite the ample gas supply, gas hydrate formation is inhibited by local thermal and salinity regimes. Published estimates of gas hydrate abundance in this region should be revised sharply downward in the vicinity of focused flux features.
Optimized multilayered graded fractal FSS: microgenetic algorithm and comparison with experiment

Radar absorbing material is a very effective means of RCS reduction in the content of stealth technology. In this paper, we present our design of multi-layer microwave absorber with fractal Frequency Selective Surface embedded. Micro-genetic algorithm is employed for the optimization of the design. Two designs are presented in the paper with regard to different frequency spectrum. The experimental result shown here indicates more than 15 dB reduction at X- band in the reflection of a flat surface, by the use of this configuration with lossy dielectrics, which is in good agreement with the simulation result.
Interaction of Phosphatidylinositol-4,5-Bisphosphate with Potential Clustering Agents Ca2+, Mg2+, and Cholesterol

Phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate [PI(4,5)P2] is an important signaling lipid in the cell plasma membrane, playing an important role in many diverse signaling processes. It is important to gain an understanding of how PI(4,5)P2's role in these signaling processes is regulated. For example, it has been proposed that regulation by PI(4,5)P2 is based on its lateral localization within the plasma membrane, with multiple pools of PI(4,5)P2 used for different signaling purposes. In vitro studies have indicated that both Ca2+ and cholesterol have the capacity to promote formation of PI(4,5)P2 clusters in model membranes. To shed light on this we have examined the interaction of PI(4,5)P2 with Ca2+, Mg2+, and cholesterol using solid-state MAS 31P NMR. The solid state 31P-NMR allows us to examine the differential effects of Ca2+, Mg2+, and cholesterol on the 4 and 5 phosphomonesters of PI(4,5)P2 independently. We examined phosphatidylcholine multilamellar vesicles containing near physiological concentration of PI(4,5)P2 in the presence of micro and millimolar concentrations of Ca2+ and Mg2+. The 4- and 5-phosphates of PI(4,5)P2 were both found to shift downfield in the presence of Ca2+ and Mg2+, indicating increased deprotonation of PI(4,5)P2 due to association of the cations. This effect was significantly larger in the presence of Ca2+. Multilamellar vesicles containing PC and PI(4,5)P2 with varying amounts of cholesterol were also studied. The 4- and 5-phosphates of PI(4,5)P2 were found to have a significant downfield shift in the presence of 40 mol% cholesterol. The cumulative effects of cholesterol in combination with the common inner leaflet phospholipids, PE and PI, were also examined.
Nursing behavior in dam‐reared Russian saiga (Saiga tatarica tatarica) at the San Diego wild animal park

This study was designed to examine the nursing patterns and related behavior of young saiga raised by their dams. Four captive born lambs were observed at weekly intervals during continuous 14 h watches for the first 7 weeks of life. One-week-old lambs were found to nurse at an average rate of 1.1 bouts per hour and nursed for an average of 14.6 seconds per bout. This high nursing frequency and the average total daily nursing time of 242 seconds decreased rapidly with age. Saiga lambs sampled solid food as early as 4 days of age and were nearly dependent on solid food by the age of 7 weeks. Communal nursing, in which one or more lambs would nurse from an unrelated adult female while she nursed her own, was common. Grooming of the lamb by the dam was never seen except immediately following birth. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Breeding systems of hermaphroditic and gynodioecious populations of the colonizing species Trifolium hirtum All. in California

A multilocus procedure was used to estimate outcrossing rates in ten roadside populations of Trifolium hirtum in California. Three groups of populations were studied: cultivars, hermaphroditic, and gynodioecious (sexually dimorphic) populations. The multilocus outcrossing rate (tm) varied from 0.05 to 0.43 among populations. Population level tm estimates were significantly correlated with the observed heterozygosity in gynodioecious populations but not in hermaphroditic populations. The outcrossing rate of hermaphrodites and females was estimated in three gynodioecious populations; the estimates of tm varied from 0.09 to 0.23 for hermaphrodites and from 0.73 to 0.80 for females. The distribution of outcrossing rates in gynodioecious populations is bimodal. Our results indicate that for the levels of selfing observed among hermaphrodites, inbreeding depression is likely to be a major factor in the maintenance of females in gynodioecious populations.
Volumetric segmentation of range images of 3D objects using superquadric models

Abstract The problem of part definition, description, and decomposition is central to the shape recognition systems. We present a geometric model-driven framework for segmenting dense range data of complex 3D objects into their constituent parts in terms of surface (biquadrics) and volumetric (superquadrics) primitives, without a priori domain knowledge or stored models. Surface segmentation uses a novel local-to-global iterative regression approach of searching for the best piecewise biquadric description of the data. The region adjacency information, surface discontinuities, and global shape properties are extracted from biquadrics to guide the volumetric segmentation. Superquadric models are recovered by a global-to-local residual-driven procedure, which recursively segments the scene to derive the part-structure. A set of acceptance criteria provide the objective evaluation of intermediate descriptions and decide whether to terminate the procedure, or selectively refine the segmentation. The control module generates hypotheses about superquadric models at clusters of underestimated data and performs controlled extrapolation of part-models by shrinking the global model. Results are presented for real range images of varying complexity, including objects with occluding parts, and scenes where surface segmentation is not sufficient to guide the volumetric segmentation.
Staff perceptions of live classical music in an urban medical clinic: A qualitative investigation

Despite a lack of well-controlled empirical studies to support its implementation, recorded music is often utilized in medical waiting areas. More specifically, there is a dearth of data concerning...
Increased Rates of Duodenal Obstruction in Pancreatic Cancer Patients Receiving Modern Medical Management

Background Duodenal obstruction from pancreatic cancer historically occurs in 2–25 % of patients without surgery, but with new advances in chemotherapy and radiation therapy, the life expectancy of pancreatic cancer has increased.
A drift experiment to assess the influence of wind on recovery of oiled seabirds on St Paul Island, Alaska

We used wooden blocks to estimate the proportion of oiled seabird carcasses that were likely to be recovered on beaches of St Paul Island, Alaska following a near-shore oil spill. We released a total of 302 blocks 6 km north of the island in 1997 at the site of a 17 II 1996 oil spill. We used a paired design and released half the blocks when the winds were onshore and released the second half when the winds were offshore. We systematically searched beaches after the second release to recover blocks. We recovered 93 of 152 (61%) blocks released when winds were onshore but only 1 of 150 (0.7%) blocks released when winds were offshore. Given that winds following the 1996 spill were offshore, we conclude that most birds killed at sea following the 1996 spill were likely not recovered on beaches.