cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On the determination of thermal phenomena during drilling—Part II. Comparison of experimental and analytical twist drill temperature distributions

Abstract The analytical models, developed in Part I of this paper, for estimating the temperature distributions along the cutting edge and on the clearance face of a twist drill are evaluated using an experimental technique that measures average drill flank temperatures. While the transient model tends to overestimate the values of the average flank temperatures, especially during drilling to a one diameter hole depth, the temperatures predicted from the steady state model agree reasonably well with the experimental results. The difference between the analytical and experimental results varied with the physical and thermal properties of the powder metallurgy work materials used in this experiment. The analytical drill temperature distribution models are also compared with others found in the literature.
Data cache management using frequency-based replacement

We propose a new frequency-based replacement algorithm for managing caches used for disk blocks by a file system, database management system, or disk control unit, which we refer to here as data caches. Previously, LRU replacement has usually been used for such caches. We describe a replacement algorithm based on the concept of maintaining reference counts in which locality has been “factored out”. In this algorithm replacement choices are made using a combination of reference frequency and block age. Simulation results based on traces of file system and I/O activity from actual systems show that this algorithm can offer up to 34% performance improvement over LRU replacement, where the improvement is expressed as the fraction of the performance gain achieved between LRU replacement and the theoretically optimal policy in which the reference string must be known in advance. Furthermore, the implementation complexity and efficiency of this algorithm is comparable to one using LRU replacement.
Prolonged Signal-Averaged P-Wave Duration as an Intermediate Phenotype for Familial Atrial Fibrillation

Objectives This study sought to perform a genome-wide linkage analysis in a large atrial fibrillation (AF) kindred using AF and abnormally prolonged signal-averaged (SA) P-wave duration as the phenotype. Background Although inherited forms of AF exist, phenotypic complexity has limited efforts to ascertain mutation carriers and thus identify causal genes. The identification of intermediate or endophenotypes may accelerate this effort. Methods A genome-wide linkage analysis was performed in a 4-generation AF kindred of 27 individuals, 8 with AF documented by electrocardiogram. The analysis was performed using AF as the phenotype, and repeated using an abnormally prolonged SA P-wave duration as the phenotype. Results Linkage analysis and fine mapping generated a maximum multipoint logarithm of the odds (LOD) score of 3.0 at chromosome 5p15 between markers D5S406 and D5S635 . Importantly, 8 heterozygous carriers had a prolonged SA P-wave (203 ± 21 ms) compared with 17 noncarriers (116 ± 12 ms, p 155 ms) as an endophenotype, a maximum LOD score of 3.6 was obtained in the same region of chromosome 5p15, a span of 5.75 centi-Morgans. Conclusions In a large AF kindred, we have identified a novel AF locus on chromosome 5p15 and shown that affected individuals with AF and mutation carriers can be identified by a prolonged SA P-wave duration. Importantly, identification of an endophenotype in this kindred not only aided ascertainment of additional family members but also increased the LOD score, providing increased support for linkage at this locus. Identification of the causal gene, mapped to chromosome 5p15, will advance our understanding of the molecular basis of AF.
Transgenic animals: Beyond ‘funny milk’

The expression of therapeutically useful proteins in transgenic animals is a field of biotechnology that is now coming of age. Over the past few years, significant progress has been made in the expression of proteins in milk. More recently, the expression of proteins in blood and tissues (e.g. animal organs for transplantation to humans) has greatly expanded the potential applications of transgenic animals in medicine and biotechnology.
Subjective and objective findings in patients with true dehiscence versus thin bone over the superior semicircular canal

OBJECTIVE To compare subjective and objective findings between patients with true dehiscence versus thin bone over the superior semicircular canal (SSC). STUDY DESIGN Retrospective case series. SETTING Tertiary referral center. PATIENTS All patients from our institution with true dehiscence or thin bone over the SSC on computed tomography temporal bone (oblique view) from 2007 to 2013. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Subjective test: Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI). Objective tests: Infrared video eye recording with varying stimuli (Tulio, Fistula, and Vibration); vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP); electrocochleography; videonystagmography; pure-tone audiometry (i.e., air-bone gap). RESULTS Fifty-four patients (64 ears) were reviewed. Thirty-nine patients (47 ears) had true dehiscence of the SSC on temporal bone computed tomography. Fifteen patients (17 ears) had thin bone over the SSC. There was no statistical difference in DHI scores for patients with true dehiscence versus those with thin bone over the SSC. Only cervical VEMP and air-bone gap via pure-tone audiometry revealed a significant difference between the two groups. The remaining vestibular assessments did not demonstrate any difference. No significant correlations were revealed between DHI and objective test findings across and within the two groups. CONCLUSION Among the objective tests, cervical VEMP and pure-tone audiometry are the only tools to distinguish between true dehiscence and thin bone over the SSC. DHI does not differentiate between these two groups. Furthermore, no correlation exists between DHI and any objective finding. Further investigation is necessary to develop a validated subjective symptom index of patients with SSC syndrome.
Micro-angiographic patterns of chronic ulcerative colitis

Micro-angiography has been carried out on two resected specimens of chronic ulcerative colitis. The vasculature of the diseased colon is much altered from that of the normal colon; the predominant difference being manifested by an increase in the number of vessels. The diameter of vessels of the diseased mucosa and muscularis was uniformly greater than that of the normal colon. In areas where the mucosa remained intact, the vasculature retained a normal pattern.
Fault currents in MHD Faraday generators

In a previous paper the authors derived an equivalent circuit for MHD generators with segmented electrodes and determined its parameters for a Faraday channel. This circuit was used to find the terminal currents and voltages under three typical faults: 1) short circuit at one electrode pair (Faraday catastrophe), 2) one-load rejection, and 3) short circuit between two adjacent anode segments (Hall catastrophe). Such information is important for the design of the power takeoff equipment. The parameters of the equivalent circuit were calculated by integrating the generalized Ohm's law of the plasma core over proper paths in the channel in order to define terminal currents and voltages. However, one parameter, the Hall resistance R /SUB xx/ , was left unknown in the process of integration and was determined separately by making use of the simplified results of a two-dimensional analysis of fault case 1. Since the equivalent circuit is defined in terms of exact V-I characteristics at the terminals, the resulting lumped parameter circuit can reproduce the terminal performance features of the original channel with sufficient accuracy.
T-cell recognition of non-peptide antigens

Studies of two distinct human T-cell systems have provided the exciting finding that T cells are able to recognize non-peptide antigens: gammadelta T cells have been shown to recognize isopentenyl pyrophosphate and related structures and human CD1 has been shown to present microbial lipids and lipoglycans such as mycolic acids and lipoarabinomannan to T cells. T-cell responses to these non-peptide antigens should provide a strategic target for immunologic intervention in infectious disease.
Structure-activity relationships in Toll-like receptor 7 agonistic 1H-imidazo[4,5-c]pyridines.

Engagement of TLR7 in plasmacytoid dendritic cells leads to the induction of IFN-α/β which plays essential functions in the control of adaptive immunity. We had previously examined structure–activity relationships (SAR) in TLR7/8-agonistic imidazoquinolines with a focus on substituents at the N1, C2, N3 and N4 positions, and we now report SAR on 1H-imidazo[4,5-c]pyridines. 1-Benzyl-2-butyl-1H-imidazo[4,5-c]pyridin-4-amine was found to be a pure TLR7-agonist with negligible activity on TLR8. Increase in potency was observed in N6-substituted analogues, especially in those compounds with electron-rich substituents. Direct aryl–aryl connections at C6 abrogated activity, but TLR7 agonism was reinstated in 6-benzyl and 6-phenethyl analogues. Consistent with the pure TLR7-agonistic behavior, prominent IFN-α induction in human PBMCs was observed with minimal proinflammatory cytokine induction. A benzologue of imidazoquinoline was also synthesized which showed substantial improvements in potency over the parent imidazopyridine. Distinct differences in N6-substituted analogues were observed with respect to IFN-α induction in human PBMCs on the one hand, and CD69 upregulation in lymphocytic subsets, on the other.
Site-specific polyadenylation in a cell-free reaction

Abstract A soluble HeLa cell extract accurately polyadenylates RNA transcribed from DNA templates containing the adenovirus L3 polyadenylation site. Regardless of the length of these DNA templates, the major polyadenylated species had 3′ termini corresponding to the in vivo site. Polyadenylated RNA appears after an hour lag and only reaches maximum levels after 4 hr of incubation, a time course similar to that of splicing in this extract. Inhibitor studies suggest that the polyadenylation reaction is not coupled to active transcription. Unlike splicing in this extract where exogenous substrate is processed, addition of purified RNA precursor to the reaction does not yield product polyadenylated at L3 but rather results in addition of poly (A) to termini of the precursor. This suggests that part of the specificity of polyadenylation is established by in situ synthesis of RNA. Surprisingly, synthesis of accurately polyadenylated RNA may involve small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particles (snRNPs). The reaction is inhibited by antisera of Sm and Ul RNP specificities as well as antiserum to the nuclear antigen La, but is not inhibited by control serum and anti-(U2)RNP serum.
The landscape of inappropriate laboratory testing: a 15-year meta-analysis.

Background Laboratory testing is the single highest-volume medical activity and drives clinical decision-making across medicine. However, the overall landscape of inappropriate testing, which is thought to be dominated by repeat testing, is unclear. Systematic differences in initial vs. repeat testing, measurement criteria, and other factors would suggest new priorities for improving laboratory testing.
No Shelf Required 2: Use and Management of Electronic Books

Edited by Sue Polanka. Chicago, IL: ALA, 2012, 272 pp., ISBN13: 978-0-8389-1145-7, softcover, $65.00 (ALA members: $58.50). Odds are if you are reading this review, you are doing so electronically....
The superplastic properties of a Ti3AlNb alloy

Research has been undertaken to study the high temperature mechanical properties of Ti-22Al-26Nb (Al%) at various temperatures (900 °C–1000 °C) and strain rates. The orthorhombic alloy was found to exhibit superplasticity. Superplastic conditions were determined and typical microstructural features were revealed using SEM. Superplastic behavior was characterized based on mechanical and microstructural analyses. The as received alloy has a two phase microstructure of B2 precipitates in an orthorhombic matrix. Maximum elongation of 230% was obtained at a strain rate of 9.75 × 10−5 s−1 at 960 °C.
Calcium Regulation of Calcineurin Phosphatase Activity by Its B Subunit and Calmodulin ROLE OF THE AUTOINHIBITORY DOMAIN

Calcineurin (CaN) contains an autoinhibitory element (residues 457-482) 43 residues COOH-terminal of the calmodulin-binding domain (Hashimoto, Y., Perrino, B. A., and Soderling, T. R. (1990) J. Biol. Chem. 265, 1924-1927) that regulates the Ca(2+)-dependent activation of its phosphatase activity. Substitution of Arg476 and Arg477 or Asp467 to Ala in the autoinhibitory peptide 457-482 significantly decreased its inhibitory potency. CaN A subunits with these residues mutated to Ala were coexpressed with the Ca(2+)-binding B subunit using the baculovirus/Sf9 cell system. Kinetic analysis showed that although the purified mutants had no activity in the absence of calcium, they were less dependent than the wild-type enzyme on calcium and calmodulin for activity. To determine if additional autoinhibitory motifs were present in the COOH terminus of calcineurin, the A subunit was truncated at residues 457 or 420 and co-expressed with B subunit. The Vmax values of both truncation mutants with or without Ca2+ were increased relative to wild-type calcineurin. The increased Ca(2+)-independent activity of CaN420 relative to CaN457 indicates the presence of additional autoinhibitory element(s) within residues 420-457. CaN420 had similar high Vmax values with or without Ca2+, but the Km value for peptide substrate was increased 5-fold to 125 microM in the absence of Ca2+. The Km values of all the expressed calcineurin species were increased in the absence of Ca2+. The CaN A or CaN A420 subunits alone have low Vmax and high Km (115 microM) values even in the presence of Ca2+. These results indicate that 1) there are several autoinhibitory motifs between the CaM-binding domain and the COOH terminus that are relieved by Ca2+ binding to CaM and the B subunit, 2) Ca2+ binding to the B subunit also regulates enzyme activity by lowering the Km of the catalytic subunit for substrate, 3) binding of the B subunit is required for high Vmax values even after removal of the autoinhibitory domain. These results are consistent with synergistic activation of calcineurin by Ca2+ acting through both CaM and the B subunit.
Temperature dependence of the ozone absorption cross section at the 253.7‐nm mercury line

The temperature dependence of the ozone absorption cross section at 253.7 nm has been measured between 195 and 351 K. The experimental technique employed circumvents the necessity to determine the absolute ozone concentration for each temperature measurement. Below 273 K the cross section increases approximately 0.6 percent, while toward higher temperatures the cross section decreases rapidly. In a comparison, good agreement with other recently made measurements is shown.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis ESX-1 system-secreted protein ESAT-6 but not CFP10 inhibits human T-cell immune responses

Summary The secreted proteins of M. tuberculosis , early secreted antigenic target 6 kDa (ESAT-6) and culture filtrate protein 10 kDa (CFP10), have been identified as antigenic proteins with potent T-cell stimulatory effects, and therefore have been the focus of tuberculosis vaccine studies. However, recent work showed that secretion of these proteins by the specialized ESAT-6 secretion system (ESX)-1 of M. tuberculosis is associated with virulence and pathogenesis. The studies demonstrated that ESAT-6 inhibits antigen-presenting cell function by reducing IL-12 production by macrophages through interrupting TLR2 signaling pathways and inducing macrophage apoptosis. However, the effect of ESAT-6 on T cells remains unexplored. To address this question, we studied the effect of recombinant ESAT-6 and CFP10 on human primary T-cell IFN-γ secretion and proliferation. ESAT-6, but not CFP10, inhibited IFN-γ production by T cells stimulated with M. tuberculosis or with anti-CD3 plus anti-CD28, in a dose-dependent manner. ESAT-6 also inhibited T-cell production of IL-17 and TNF-a, but not IL-2. Presence of CFP10 as part of the ESAT-6/CFP10 heterodimer did not affect ESAT-6 inhibition of T-cell IFN-γ production. ESAT-6 inhibited the proliferation of CD3+ cells in response to TCR stimulation. ESAT-6 decreased T-cell IFN-γ secretion by mechanisms independent of cytotoxicity or apoptosis. ESAT-6 reduced IFN-γ mRNA levels by inhibiting the expression of the transcription factors, ATF-2, c-Jun and CREB, which upregulate IFN-γ gene expression in T cells through binding to the IFN-γ proximal promoter. ESAT-6, but not CFP10, bound to T cells and inhibited expression of early activation markers without reducing phosphorylation of ZAP70, a proximal TCR signaling molecule. We conclude that ESAT-6 directly inhibits human T-cell responses by affecting TCR signaling pathways downstream of ZAP70.
Rethinking the Science System

As the U.S. budget environment for science and technology (S&T) threatens to get worse, it is essential for the scientific community to go beyond just advocating for special consideration. There is a strong case for maintaining investments in S&T as a foundation for long-term economic growth and social well-being. But when resources are constrained, it is essential that they be used effectively and efficiently to avoid losing scientific momentum and to ensure that society will benefit maximally from S&T's potential. The scientific community cannot afford to simply adapt passively to reduced budgets. The impact of impending cuts can be at least partially mitigated by some fundamental rethinking of the ways in which S&T are both funded and conducted. Although the United States is used as the example here, the same issues will apply in many other parts of the world.
Determination of the exciton diffusion constant from variation of quantum yield with penetration length

Abstract A master equation analysis of Frenkel exciton motion in molecular crystals shows how the exciton diffusion constant may be experimentally determined from end-to-end migration observations, without prior information of trapping interactions at the detection surface. Experiments are suggested, and theoretically predicted curves are provided.
Velocity-gradient dynamics in compressible turbulence: influence of Mach number and dilatation rate

The onset of compressibility effects brings about profound changes in the nature of pressure and its consequent influence on velocity-gradient evolution in turbulent flows. In this work we examine the changing action of pressure on velocity-gradient evolution with varying levels of compressibility in decaying isotropic turbulence. The degree of departure from incompressibility is characterized in one of the following three ways: (1) local turbulent Mach number, which is indicative of local balance between inertial and pressure effects; (2) local relative dilatation, which is a measure of the level of compression/expansion rate of a fluid element and (3) global turbulent Mach number, which is a global measure of compressibility of a homogeneous turbulent flow field. It is found that the pressure-Hessian inhibits velocity-gradient steepening at incompressible and subsonic local Mach numbers. In contrast, at higher local Mach numbers, the pressure-Hessian becomes the dominant driver of gradient steepening. E...
Multiple mating, sperm competition and meiotic drive

Most discussions of ‘sperm competition’ have ignored the potential for competition among the different sperm genotypes present in the ejaculate of a single male. Rivalry within ejaculates may limit cooperation among the members of an ejaculate when they compete with sperm produced by other males. A gene that gains an advantage in competition within an ejaculate (a segregation distorter) may increase in frequency even if it is associated with significant costs to organismal fitness. Therefore, selection will favor genes expressed in males that suppress competition within ejaculates. This may explain why sperm function is largely controlled by the diploid genotype of the male progenitor, rather than by the genotypes of individual haploid sperm. Females who mate with multiple males reduce the relative advantage of a segregation distorter whenever the distorter impairs the competitive effectiveness of the ejaculates in which it occurs. If the distorter is associated with costs to organismal fitness, selection will favor female mating behavior that reduces the distorter's equilibrium frequency. Competition within ejaculates may thus be one reason why females choose to mate with multiple males.
An examination of worry in relation to anxious responding to voluntary hyperventilation among adolescents.

Abstract This study examined the association between worry and fearful responding to a 3-min voluntary hyperventilation procedure. Participants were 160 adolescents (71 females) between the ages of 12 and 17 years ( M = 14.92 years). After accounting for the significant effects of state anxiety and anxiety sensitivity, results indicated that pre-challenge levels of worry indexed by the Penn State Worry Questionnaire-Child Version predicted post-challenge anxiety and intensity of panic symptoms. Results are discussed in terms of the role of worry in relation to panic-relevant emotional vulnerability among youth.
Inactivation of herpes simplex virus by thiosemicarbazones and certain cations.

Abstract We demonstrated that herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, including a type 2 strain which transforms hamster cells in vitro, and Herpesvirus saimiri are inactivated by exposure to thiosemicarbazones. Because thiosemicarbazones are thought to interact with heavy metals in this inactivation process (9), we tested and found some of these herpesviruses to be susceptible to exposure to certain heavy metals. A virion polymerase was sought because the ribonucleic acid (RNA)-dependent deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) polymerase of Rous sarcoma virus and the DNA-dependent RNA polymerase of vaccinia virus are inhibited. However, neither DNA nor RNA polymerase activity could be demonstrated in herpes simplex virions. The ability of thiosemicarbazone to ameliorate the course of herpes simplex virus infection in rabbit eyes was observed, but was considered insufficient to be of clinical importance.
Culture as a Battleground: Subversive Narratives in Constructivist Architecture and Stage Design

In Russia of the twenties, the connections that were forged between architecture and theater were so strong that the narratives of one cannot be read without knowledge of the other. A lack of aware...
Three-halves law in sunspot cycle shape

Evidence is provided of a nonlinear effect consisting of a 3/2 power law in annual mean sunspot numbers since 1700. With correction for this nonlinearity, it has been possible to reproduce theoretically the well-known Waldmeier relation between rise time and maximum sunspot number, in addition to other features of the 11 yr sunspot curve such as a break in the decline of strong 11 yr cycles. Eighteenth century sunspot numbers are found to fit theoretical semicycle shapes well. The present model suggests an upward travelling 22 yr wave launched by a reciprocating magnetic oscillator deep in the sun.
Adhesive contact based on the Lennard-Jones potential: a correction to the value of the equilibrium distance as used in the potential

Abstract A Lennard–Jones type surface law is commonly used in adhesive contact modeling; however, one of its parameters, namely the equilibrium distance z0, is not well defined. In this paper, a self-consistent method is used to derive the Lennard–Jones surface law from the interatomic Lennard–Jones potential. The parameters of the surface law are directly related to the material lattice parameter and surface energy, and the equilibrium distance z0 values are obtained for various materials. The effect of using the z0 proposed in the present work is demonstrated via the study of adhesive contact behavior for a single sphere and a flat surface, as well as the contact between planar rough surfaces. For pull-off force prediction of the contact between a single sphere and a flat surface, the error of using the z0 suggested in previous studies could be as large as 10% at intermediate ranges of a dimensionless adhesion parameter. For the contact between planar rough surfaces, the error of using the previously proposed z0 is larger for smoother cases, and the prediction of pull-off force could be different by as much as a factor of 5.
A stem study of a platinum deposit on an amorphous carbon film: The effects of contact voltage in the nucleation process

Abstract Platinum clusters evaporated on an amorphous carbon film were used to study the nucleation process. The distribution of diameters, edge-to-edge distances, and the population of the clusters was measured using a high resolution scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) together with digital image processing techniques. Our results seem to imply that the contact voltage between a cluster and the substrate plays a very important role in the process of the nucleation and growth of the film.
A simulation assessment of the thermodynamics of dense ion-dipole mixtures with polarization

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are employed to ascertain the relative importance of various electrostatic interaction contributions, including induction interactions, to the thermodynamics of dense, hot ion-dipole mixtures. In the absence of polarization, we find that an MD-constrained free energy term accounting for the ion-dipole interactions, combined with well tested ionic and dipolar contributions, yields a simple, fairly accurate free energy form that may be a better option for describing the thermodynamics of such mixtures than the mean spherical approximation (MSA). Polarization contributions induced by the presence of permanent dipoles and ions are found to be additive to a good approximation, simplifying the thermodynamic modeling. We suggest simple free energy corrections that account for these two effects, based in part on standard perturbative treatments and partly on comparisons with MD simulation. Even though the proposed approximations likely need further study, they provide a first quantitative assessment of polarization contributions at high densities and temperatures and may serve as a guide for future modeling efforts.
Radiocarbon measurements of atmospheric volatile organic compounds: Quantifying the biogenic contribution

The radiocarbon (14C) abundance of atmospheric volatile organic compounds (VOC) gives a quantitative estimate of contributions from biomass and fossil-mass sources, important information for effect...
Direct Determination of NMR Correlation Times from Spin−Lattice and Spin−Spin Relaxation Times

The NMR rotational correlation equations for dipolar relaxation between 1H and the nuclei 15N and 19F have been solved for viscous solutions using the R2/R1 dipolar ratio. The rotational correlation times have been determined over the dipolar R2/R1 range 1.1−1200 at field strengths of 4.7, 6.35, 7.05, 9.4, 11.75, and 14.1 T. The calculated correlation times at each field strength have been fitted to pairs of polynomials that reproduce the correlation times from R2/R1 values at a given temperature. These polynomials are used to determine correlation times in two studies where molecular rotation is slow (ωτ > 1). The studies include (1) where the 15N−1H correlation-time polynomial equations are used to determine the correlation times of the enzyme 4-oxalocrotonate tautomerase and the backbone correlation time of the intestinal fatty acid binding protein and (2) where the 19F−1H polynomial equations are used to characterize the rotational mobility of 5-fluorouracil-substituted Escherichia coli tRNA1Val and t...
The Development of Maternal Touch During Early Mother‐Infant Interaction

There has been increased professional interest in the newborns need for early maternal touch and the long‐range implications thereof. This study was undertaken to ascertain if there is a consistent observable pattern and range of maternal touch present during early mother‐infant interactive (infants 18 hours of age or less). The study sample consisted of 24 middle‐class mothers and their infants, divided into four groups: primiparas with dressed infants, primiparas with undressed infants, multiparas with dressed infants, and multiparas with undressed infants. The setting was a suburban metropolitan hospital with family‐centered maternity care. The results of this descriptive study showed that observations of maternal touch during early mother‐infant interaction could be a useful tool for nurses in assessing the mother‐infant relationship and in planning interventive nursing care during the postpartum period.
Confirmation of Leinfelder clinical wear standards

Objectives. Accuracy of composite wear studies based on Leinfelder standards has been disputed. There are differences with other well-calibrated systems such as the M-L and Vivadent wear standards. The objective of this study was to re-evaluate the margin height at key regions along the restoration margins for each of the 6 Leinfelder standards using laser profiling techniques. Methods. The Leinfelder standards were profiled in parallel paths 100 μm apart and measured in x-y-z position every 20 μm along those paths using a laser profilometer. Results. Rounding of cavosurface enamel margins from intraoral wear greatly increased the uncertainty of the true enamel margin location and step height measurements, precluding unequivocal measurements for standards #2 and #3. Values for other standards for the original report, newly measured means and standard errors, and measured ranges were: #4 (322 μm, 333 ± 34 μm, 171–507 μm), #5 (382 μm, 459 ± 44 μm, 202–649 μm), and #6 (493 μm, 584 ± 91 μm, 315–1022 μm). There were no statistically significant differences (p ≤ 0.10) between these and original values. Large standard errors may have obscured small differences that may exist. The Leinfelder cast conversion scale seems to be the correct relative magnitude. Significance. Differences between Leinfelder casts and other standards may be due to differences in shadow production. Clinical wear may be systematically underestimated by other cast evaluation methods that have well-defined margins. This emphasizes the need for standard casts with margin morphology similar to the clinical casts being evaluated for wear.
Methyl and arylchalcogenolate complexes of cadmium in a sulfur rich coordination environment: syntheses and structural characterization of the tris(2-mercapto-1-tert-butylimidazolyl)hydroborato cadmium complexes [TmBut]CdMe, and [TmBut]CdEAr (E = O, S, Se, Te) and analysis of the bonding in chalcogenolate compounds

A series of arylchalcogenolate complexes of cadmium supported by tris(2-mercapto-1-tert-butylimidazolyl)hydroborato ligation, namely [TmBut]CdEAr (EAr = OC6H3Ph2, SPh, SePh, TePh), has been synthesized from [TmBut]CdMe; structural characterization by X-ray diffraction indicates that the variation in Cd–EAr bond lengths is similar to that of Zn–EAr and correlates closely with the covalent radius of the chalcogen, in marked contrast to the large variation in M–OAr and M–SAr bond lengths observed for other metals (Zr and Sm).
Projected Availability of Natural Cavities for Wood Ducks in Southern Illinois

Abstract Wood ducks (Aix sponsa) and other species use tree cavities in forested wetlands and adjacent upland forests for nest sites and cover. The availability of tree cavities suitable for nesting is important to the population dynamics of hole-nesting species, but there is little quantitative information on how forest succession and maturation affect densities of suitable nest sites in eastern deciduous forests. Several studies have measured availability of tree cavities for nesting wood ducks, but data on cavity formation and persistence rates are needed to model changes in cavity abundance. We measured abundance and persistence of tree cavities suitable for nesting wood ducks in southern Illinois, USA, during 1993–2002. We simulated changes in abundance of nest cavities in the Mississippi River floodplain and adjacent upland forests using estimates of tree cavity densities by tree-diameter size classes and 10-year cavity persistence rates by tree species. Cavities were disproportionately common in th...
Long and short gracilis myocutaneous flaps for vulvovaginal reconstruction after radical pelvic surgery : comparison of flap-specific complications

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine the factors associated with flap-specific complications in patients receiving gracilis myocutaneous flaps for pelvic reconstruction, specifically to determine whether the short gracilis flap increases the risk of major flap loss. Records of consecutive women undergoing gracilis flap pelvic reconstruction procedures were analyzed retrospectively. Twenty-two received classical "long" flaps, while 24 received short flaps. In the short gracilis flap modification, the dominant vascular pedicle is deliberately sacrificed. Clinical factors for association with flap-specific complications were analyzed. Eighty-three flaps were used in 46 women for reconstruction after radical pelvic surgery. Those receiving short flaps were more likely to have a preoperative diagnosis of cervical cancer and to have undergone exenteration with rectosigmoid anastomosis, and all short flaps were preformed by gynecologic oncologists (all P P
The Inositol Trisphosphate Receptor Regulates a 50-Second Behavioral Rhythm in C. elegans

The C. elegans defecation cycle is characterized by the contraction of three distinct sets of muscles every 50 s. Our data indicate that this cycle is regulated by periodic calcium release mediated by the inositol trisphosphate receptor (IP3 receptor). Mutations in the IP3 receptor slow down or eliminate the cycle, while overexpression speeds up the cycle. The IP3 receptor controls these periodic muscle contractions nonautonomously from the intestine. In the intestinal cells, calcium levels oscillate with the same period as the defecation cycle and peak calcium levels immediately precede the first muscle contraction. Mutations in the IP3 receptor slow or eliminate these calcium oscillations. Thus, the IP3 receptor is an essential component of the timekeeper for this cycle and represents a novel mechanism for the control of behavioral rhythms.
Ecosystems Evolution as Source of Sustainable Development

Abstract Rural development by regions can be materialized through the elaboration and implementation of sectoral strategies. The design of a development model in the territory according to the fundamental sectoral domains can be achieved following the rural cohesion principles. The rural area, in its multiple diversity, is subject to complex challenges coming from the macroeconomic and macrosocial processes: a). demographic and social challenges from the territorial point of view, segregation of vulnerable groups – the diminution in number of the rural population and the strong demographic ageing on the rise have an impact upon rural cohesion starting from the type of public services, their supply and ending up with the rural labour market; b). challenges of the climate changes – the environmental risks are felt in the territory at different degrees, and vulnerabilization is regionally selective; c). challenges in relation to the loss of biodiversity, through the vulnerabilization of the natural, landscape and cultural patrimony – the regional character of the rural area can be so drastically modified that the territorial identity is lost.
Heritability and genetic linkage of left ventricular mass, systolic and diastolic function in hypertensive African Americans (From the GENOA Study).

Echocardiographic measures of left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy (LVH), and systolic and diastolic dysfunction are strong predictors of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.1–5 A number of risk factors for LVH, particularly hypertension, are known to be prevalent in African Americans. It is clear that the disproportionate number of individuals with changes in LV mass, and systolic and diastolic dysfunction in the African-American community cannot be completely explained by established risk factors alone and may be due to novel or genetic factors.6 The role that genetics play in influencing echocardiographic traits in African Americans has not been extensively characterized. Using pedigree information, we estimated the heritability of echocardiographically derived measures of LV mass, relative wall thickness, and systolic and diastolic function in the Jackson cohort of African-American hypertensive siblings from the Genetic Epidemiology Network of Arteriopathy (GENOA) study. We subsequently explored genetic linkage to these echocardiographic phenotypes using additional information from 454 tandem microsatellite markers across the genome in these participants.
Spontaneously regulated vs. controlled ventilation of acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome

Purpose of reviewTo present an updated discussion of those aspects of controlled positive pressure breathing and retained spontaneous regulation of breathing that impact the management of patients whose tissue oxygenation is compromised by acute lung injury.Recent findingsThe recent introduction of
Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding: evolving clinical experience

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) was first introduced in the early 1990s as a potentially safe, controllable, and reversible method for achieving significant weight loss in the severely obese. It is timely to review the existing data on this procedure derived from European, Australian, and American studies and compare and contrast their results. Special emphasis is placed on clinical outcomes and reported complications of LAGB. In general, international studies support use of the LAGB procedure,while American studies are generally better designed but more equivocal in their results.
Surgical correction of congenital entropion in related Boer goat kids using a combination Hotz‐Celsus and lateral eyelid wedge resection procedure

Five related Boer goat kids (≤4 months of age) were presented to the University of Missouri, Veterinary Teaching Hospital (MU-VMTH) with epiphora and blepharospasm of several weeks duration and commencing prior to 1 month of age in all animals. Clinical examination confirmed euryblepharon and entropion bilaterally in two females and one male and unilaterally in two female kids. Deep stromal corneal ulceration was present in two eyes, and corneal granulation tissue and fibrosis were present in half (5/10) the affected eyes. A combination Hotz-Celsus and lateral eyelid wedge resection procedure was performed on all affected eyelids. Recheck examinations and long-term follow-up confirmed resolution of the entropion, preservation of normal eyelid conformation, and restoration of ocular comfort. Pedigree analysis ruled out sex-linked and autosomal dominant inheritance patterns; a specific mode of inheritance could not be determined. The Boer goat breed may be at increased risk for the development of entropion. This cases series represents the first report of entropion in the caprine species.
Development of a model of the feedback process within executive coaching.

Recent literature concerning executive coaching consistently points out the need for a better conceptual understanding of the process of coaching. The current paper addresses this need with an emphasis on the role of feedback in executive coaching. Several existing models of the coaching process mention feedback as an important element, but none expand on the role and function of feedback in executive coaching relationships. This paper builds on several existing models of executive coaching and integrates London and Smither’s (2002) model of the feedback process to create a model of feedback in executive coaching.
Late postpartum eclampsia: A preventable disease?

Abstract Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is a shift in the timing of eclampsia in relation to delivery and whether traditional symptoms precede impending postpartum eclampsia. Study Design: A multicenter analysis of data from patients with eclampsia from March 1996 through February 2001 at the University of Cincinnati, the University of Tennessee, Memphis, and Central Baptist Hospital, Lexington. Data were collected regarding the relationship of the patient's first seizure to delivery, prodromal symptoms, neuroimaging studies, use of magnesium sulfate, antihypertensive therapy, and follow-up medical care. The analysis focused on women who had late postpartum eclampsia. Results: During the study period, 89 patients were diagnosed with eclampsia. Twenty-nine women (33%) had postpartum eclampsia, of whom 23 women (79%) had late onset (>48 hours). Interestingly, only 5 of these 23 women (22%) had been previously diagnosed with preeclampsia. Twenty-one patients (91%) with late postpartum eclampsia had at least 1 prodromal symptom, and 12 patients (52%) had >1 symptom that heralded the seizure: 20 women (87%) had headache; 10 women (44%) had visual changes; 5 women (22%) had nausea or vomiting; and 2 women (9%) experienced epigastric pain. Only 7 of these 21 women (33%) sought care for their symptoms, of whom 6 women (86%) had clinical evidence of preeclampsia that was not considered by the treating physician. Among all patients with eclampsia, there were 7 cases of aspiration pneumonia, 3 cases of pulmonary edema, 3 cases of pleural effusion, 2 cases of disseminated intravascular coagulation, and no cases of maternal death. Conclusion: Current obstetric treatment in the United States has resulted in a shift of eclampsia toward the postpartum period, with most cases being seen as late post partum. To reduce the rate of late postpartum eclampsia, efforts should be directed to the education of the health care providers and patients regarding the importance of prompt reporting and evaluation of symptoms of preeclampsia during the postpartum period. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2002;186:1174-7.)
Key questions facing the NRC on the MHTGR

Abstract This paper summarizes the status of key Issues facing the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission in its consideration of licensing the Modular High-Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactor (MHTGR). It outlines some of the major arguments relating to the need for containment, prototype testing, and offsite emergency planning. It also addresses the MHTGR concept in terms of Agency policy and practice with respect to defense-in-depth, standardization and security against sabotage. The paper was presented at the Tenth Annual International Conference on the HTGR in San Diego, California on September 19, 1988.
Physiologic Limitation of Omega Exists in Patients after the Norwood Palliation and Is Underestimated by the Arterial Venous Oxygen Saturation Difference

Background Survival after the Norwood palliation (NW) is dependent on maximizing systemic oxygen delivery. Omega (Omega) is used to express the excess of oxygen delivery to oxygen consumption. We hypothesized that an intrinsic deficiency in the ability to maximize the relationship between oxygen delivery (DO(2)) and oxygen consumption (VO(2)) is present in infants after NW and is underestimated by arterial venous oxygen saturation difference (a-vO(2)). Methods Simultaneous arterial and systemic venous blood gas data were prospectively collected for the first 24 hours after surgery in 10 neonates after NW and 32 infants after biventricular repair (BV). Blood gas data were compared between groups. These data were compared with a group of 11 infants with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) status post NW who were undergoing routine hemodynamic evaluation in the cardiac catheterization lab prior to a bidirectional Glenn operation (pre-Glenn). Results The mean systemic arterial oxygen saturation was 77% for NW, 83% for pre-Glenn, and 97% for biventricular repair. NW group had a mean systemic venous oxygenation saturation (SvO(2)) of 47% (range 12-67%) vs. 67% (range 29-84%) in the BV group (P = .001). Pre-Glenn patients had a SvO(2) of 46 (not significant [NS] vs. NW, P = .001 vs. BV). In NW, a-vO(2) mean was 32 (range 15-63) compared with mean 32 (range 16-71) in BV group (NS). Pre-Glenn a-vO(2) mean was 33.6 (NS vs. NW or BV). Omega for NW group was 2.6 (range 1.1-4.2) and 3.4 (1.4-6.25) in BV group (P = .001). Omega for pre-Glenn was 2.5 (range 1.7-3.8) (NS vs. NW, P = .001 vs. BV). Conclusion Omega is lower for patients in the immediate postoperative period after NW and prior to their bidirectional Glenn operation than in patients after biventricular repair. This places NW patients closer to the critical point of DO(2) and therefore at greater risk for hemodynamic compromise than BV patients. The a-vO(2) difference underestimates this risk.
Contact Block Reduction method for ballistic quantum transport with semi-empirical sp 3 d 5 s* tight binding band models

The utility of the Contact Block Reduction method (CBR) to find the retarded Green?s function for ballistic quantum devices with semi-empirical tight binding band (TB) models is discussed. This work shows that the original method needs several modifications to be used with TB models. In the common case where two contacts are used for transport in quantum wires, our approach computes the transmission coefficients with much less computing load than the state-of-the-art Recursive Green?s Function (RGF) algorithm.
Expression of the inducible nitric oxide synthase in distinct cellular types after traumatic brain injury: an in situ hybridization and immunocytochemical study.

The Marmarou’s acceleration traumatic brain injury (TBI) model, in situ hybridization and immunocytochemistry were utilized to study the temporal expression of the inducible form of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) mRNA and protein in different cellular compartments of the rat brain. Four hours following TBI, expression of iNOS was observed in the endothelial cells of cerebral blood vessels, macrophages and many cortical and hippocampal neurons. In the cortex labeled neuronal and non-neuronal cells were primarily found in the superficial layers. In the hippocampus the strongest neuronal labeling was observed in the CA1 and CA3 (lateral part) regions. By 24 h post TBI endothelial cells no longer expressed iNOS mRNA, and the macrophage and neuronal iNOS expression was reduced by 30–50%. The reduction was assessed by automated quantitation of the silver grains that occupy individual cellular profiles using an image analysis system. Immunocytochemistry revealed de novo iNOS synthesis in non-neuronal cells at the different time points, thus paralleling the changes in iNOS mRNA expression. In contrast, iNOS immunoreactivity in neurons was not observed before 24 h post TBI, suggesting failure of iNOS protein translation at 4 h after trauma. The results demonstrate complex spatial and temporal patterns of iNOS expression in discrete cellular populations, indicating different times of nitric oxide synthesis (and release) following TBI. Uncoupling of iNOS mRNA and protein synthesis in neurons suggests differential synthesis of nitric oxide in these cells as compared to non-neuronal cellular populations after trauma.