cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Viscoanesthesia. Part III: removal time of OVD/viscoanesthetic solutions from the capsular bag of postmortem human eyes.

Abstract Purpose To investigate and evaluate the removal time of various ophthalmic viscosurgical device (OVD)/viscoanesthetic solutions containing sodium hyaluronate 1.5% with different concentrations of lidocaine (0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.65%). Setting Center for Research on Ocular Therapeutics and Biodevices, Storm Eye Institute, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA. Methods Six postmortem human eyes were prepared per the Miyake−Apple posterior video technique. Capsulorhexis, hydrodissection/delineation, and nuclear emulsification were performed, followed by thorough cleaning of the capsular bag using an irrigation/aspiration (I/A) tip. The time and ease of removal of 4 solutions from the capsular bag were evaluated. The solutions were Ophthalin Plus® (sodium hyaluronate, 15 mg/mL) and sodium hyaluronate 15 mg/mL mixed with lidocaine 0.5%, lidocaine 1.0%, and lidocaine 1.65%. The solutions were dyed with fluorescein to enhance visualization. After the capsular bag was filled with 1 of the solutions, a posterior chamber intraocular lens was implanted. The solution was then aspirated using an automated I/A device set at 250 mm Hg of aspiration. The time required to remove most and then all the material was recorded. Results The mean time required for removal of most of the Ophthalin Plus, viscoanesthesia 0.5%, viscoanesthesia 1%, and viscoanesthesia 1.65% solutions was 8.7 seconds ± 2.1 (SD), 7.7 ± 1.1 seconds, 9.7 ± 0.6 seconds, and 6.3 ± 1.5 seconds, respectively ( P = .1). The mean time to remove all the solutions was 21.3 ± 3.2 seconds, 19.7 ± 2.5 seconds, 18.3 ± 3.2 seconds, and 15.7 ± 2.1 seconds, respectively ( P = .166). No subjective difference in viscosity or consistency was found among the solutions. Conclusion The addition of lidocaine to the OVD solution did not significantly alter the viscosity or consistency of the solution or change its removal time from the capsular bag.
Perspectives on Job Stress in the Serials Information World: A Publisher's Insights

Abstract Adam Chesler describes his experiences and observations of job stress in the serials publishing industry. While stresses, such as the challenges of supervision have always existed, others are new, such as serial publishers scrambling to adapt service and pricing models for providing Internet content. Advice is offered on coping with these stresses.
Locally Weighted Multi-atlas Construction

In image-based medical research, atlases are widely used in many tasks, for example, spatial normalization and segmentation. If atlases are regarded as representative patterns for a population of images, then multiple atlases are required for a heterogeneous population. In conventional atlas construction methods, the "unit" of representative patterns is images. Every input image is associated with its most similar atlas. As the number of subjects increases, the heterogeneity increases accordingly, and a big number of atlases may be needed. In this paper, we explore using region-wise, instead of image-wise, patterns to represent a population. Different parts of an input image is fuzzily associated with different atlases according to voxel-level association weights. In this way, regional structure patterns from different atlases can be combined together. Based on this model, we design a variational framework for multi-atlas construction. In the application to two T1-weighted MRI data sets, the method shows promising performance, in comparison with a conventional unbiased atlas construction method.
Selective Area Masked Growth (Nano to Micro)

Abstract Selective area growth (SAG) is a fabrication technique that allows compound semiconductor crystals to grow within laterally defined regions with feature sizes down to submicron to even nanometer scale. In masked SAG, dielectric masks formed by lithography are used to inhibit crystal growth outside the window areas. In this chapter, we provide a brief historical account of the development of SAG technology, a detailed description of the SAG mechanism, and some important applications to illustrate the power of SAG. We cover many essential factors that contribute to the growth dynamics of SAG, including the growth modes, the governing parameters in metal–organic chemical vapor deposition systems that determine the growth process, and diffusion processes that are directly responsible for growth rate enhancement and selectivity. A theoretical model based on vapor-phase diffusion is presented to elucidate the detailed growth kinetics and to predict the final growth profile accurately. Results from this model agree excellently with experimental data. To illustrate the power of SAG, we show three examples on how to use this technique to create a photonic integrated circuit, a novel material system, and a hybrid integrated device with active III–V materials growing on a silicon platform.
Polyglotism and Identity in Modern-Day Lebanon

Lebanon is a polyglot country, where Western languages such as English or French, or more traditional/oriental languages such as Classical Arabic, have much societal and political power. Although all Lebanese speak Levantine Arabic (Shaami), many of them master multiple languages and can decide to strongly identify with a select few not only for the love of the language, but mostly for the message each language brings with it: is Lebanon a cosmopolitan Westernized country that differentiates itself from the Arab world? Or should Lebanon look towards its Oriental roots and celebrate its Muslim-Arabic heritage? This paper seeks to prove that, in Lebanon, the implicit or explicit choice of language is a tool to convey one’s political, religious, and cultural views. This created a strong divide between Eastern and Western oriented Lebanese in the 20th century and is one of the main causes for the political turmoil in modern Lebanon.
Closets and institutions: Queer teacher exclusion in the Israeli high school system:

Drawing on an analysis of 12 in-person qualitative interviews with queer, male, Israeli high school teachers, and Israeli queer social and political news stories, this study explores the intersecti...
An empirical study on leveraging logs for debugging production failures

In modern software development, maintenance is one of the most expensive processes. When end-users encounter software defects, they report the bug to developers by specifying the expected behavior and error messages (e.g., log message). Then, they wait for a bug fix from the developers. However, on the developers' side, it can be very challenging and expensive to debug the problem. To fix the bugs, developers often have to play the role of detectives: seeking clues in the user-reported logs files or stack trace in a snapshot of specific system execution. This debugging process may take several hours or even days. In this paper, we first look at the usefulness of the user-reported logs. Then, we propose an automated approach to assist the debugging process by reconstructing the execution path. Through the analysis, our investigation shows that 31% of the time, developer further requests logs from the reporter. Moreover, our preliminary results show that the reconducted path illustrates the user's execution. We believe that our approach proposes a novel solution in debugging production failures.
Pathologic Complete Response After Neoadjuvant Chemoradiation in a Patient with Gastric Neuroendocrine Cancer.

Neuroendocrine tumors are about 0.5% of all malignancies. Specifically, for gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies, neuroendocrine tumor incidence is approximately 1%-2% per year. Gastric neuroendocrine neoplasms are rare and consist of various tumor types with differing histomorphology, pathogenesis, and biological behavior. Following surgery, post-operative chemotherapy is generally considered the standard of care. Our case report demonstrates the potential benefit of neoadjuvant concurrent chemoradiotherapy prior to surgery for a malignant gastric neuroendocrine tumor. While radiotherapy has been demonstrated to possibly provide a survival benefit in the treatment of GI neuroendocrine tumors, its use in treatment, particularly neoadjuvantly, needs to be further assessed.
The role of sugar-backbone heterogeneity and chimeras in the simultaneous emergence of RNA and DNA

Hypotheses of the origins of RNA and DNA are generally centred on the prebiotic synthesis of a pristine system (pre-RNA or RNA), which gives rise to its descendent. However, a lack of specificity in the synthesis of genetic polymers would probably result in chimeric sequences; the roles and fate of such sequences are unknown. Here, we show that chimeras, exemplified by mixed threose nucleic acid (TNA)–RNA and RNA–DNA oligonucleotides, preferentially bind to, and act as templates for, homogeneous TNA, RNA and DNA ligands. The chimeric templates can act as a catalyst that mediates the ligation of oligomers to give homogeneous backbone sequences, and the regeneration of the chimeric templates potentiates a scenario for a possible cross-catalytic cycle with amplification. This process provides a proof-of-principle demonstration of a heterogeneity-to-homogeneity scenario and also gives credence to the idea that DNA could appear concurrently with RNA, instead of being its later descendent. The emergence of pristine RNA and DNA on the early Earth would have been hindered by a lack of specificity in their prebiotic syntheses. Now, it has been shown that chimeric sequences—with a mixture of RNA and DNA backbones—mediate the template-directed ligation of oligomers present in mixtures of nucleic acids, enabling the simultaneous appearance of RNA and DNA.
Structural and Biochemical Investigations of the [4Fe-4S] Cluster-Containing Fumarate Hydratase fromLeishmania major.

Class I fumarate hydratases (FHs) are central metabolic enzymes that use a [4Fe-4S] cluster to catalyze the reversible conversion of fumarate to S-malate. The parasite Leishmania major, which is re...
Quantifying Factors Essential to the Integrity of the Esophagogastric Junction During Antireflux Procedures.

OBJECTIVE To quantify the contribution of key steps in antireflux surgery on compliance of the EGJ. BACKGROUND The lower esophageal sphincter and crural diaphragm constitute the intrinsic and extrinsic sphincters of the EGJ, respectively. Interventions to treat reflux attempt to restore the integrity of the EGJ. However, there are limited data on the relative contribution of critical steps during antireflux procedures to the functional integrity of the EGJ. METHODS Primary antireflux surgery was performed on 100 consecutive patients with pathologic reflux. Intraoperative EGJ measurements including distensibility index (DI), cross-sectional area (CSA), and HPZ length were collected using EndoFLIP. Data was acquired pre-repair, post-diaphragmatic re-approximation with sub-diaphragmatic EGJ relocation, and post-sphincter augmentation. RESULTS Patients underwent Nissen (45%), Toupet (44%), or LINX (11%). After diaphragmatic re-approximation, DI decreased by a median 0.77 mm2/mm Hg [95%-confidence interval (CI): -0.99, -0.58; P < 0.0001], CSA decreased 16.0 mm2 (95%-CI: -20.0, -8.0; P < 0.0001), whereas HPZ length increased 0.5 cm (95%-CI: 0.5, 1.0; P < 0.0001). After sphincter augmentation, DI decreased 0.14 mm2/mm Hg (95%-CI: -0.30, -0.04; P = 0.0005) and CSA decreased 5.0 mm2 (95%-CI: -10.0, 1.0; P = 0.0.0015), whereas HPZ length increased 0.5 cm (95%-CI: 0.50, 0.54; P < 0.0001). Diaphragmatic re-approximation had a higher percent contribution to distensibility (79% vs 21%), CSA (82% vs 18%), and HPZ (60% vs 40%) than sphincter augmentation. CONCLUSION Dynamic intraoperative monitoring demonstrates that diaphragmatic re-approximation and sub-diaphragmatic relocation has a greater effect on EGJ compliance than sphincter augmentation. As such, antireflux procedures should address both for optimal improvement of EGJ physiology.
SETI: the argument for artefact searches

For six decades, SETI has attempted to prove the existence of technologically advanced intelligence by detecting artificially generated electromagnetic signals. While such signals could certainly exist and – given the right circumstances – might be measurable here on Earth, contemporary searches are all compromised by limited sensitivity and a reliance on persistent transmissions. The energy required for any putative transmitters, the possible wish of the senders to be cryptic, and a likely ignorance about Homo sapiens’ existence all lead to the reasonable conclusion that greater attention to artefact searches could hasten the discovery of alien intelligence. We consider both the motivation, the advantages and the disadvantages of this approach. We also enumerate some of the specific artefact strategies that have been proposed and pursued.
Geriatric Trauma Systems

Geriatric specialized care has been shown to be beneficial in improving the outcomes of elderly trauma patients. Geriatric patients must be approached differently compared to their younger counterparts due to comorbidities and decreased physiological reserves. In recent years, trauma centers, based upon evidence-based guidelines, have developed a systematic approach to providing geriatric trauma care. Geriatric trauma systems have been shown to improve patient outcomes through protocolized patient care. In this review, we examine the characteristics and unique care provided at geriatric trauma systems.
Psychosocial Evaluation, Care and Quality of Life in Living Kidney Donation

The psychosocial evaluation for living kidney donation is the starting point in a process designed to both promote optimal care for prospective donors and protect donors from adverse psychosocial outcomes after donation. The evaluation and the process of conducting it are informed by research evidence on the nature of postdonation psychosocial outcomes, including physical, emotional, and social functioning components of health-related quality of life, as well as other elements such as financial burdens associated with donation. In this chapter, we delineate the domains to be examined in the psychosocial evaluation, and discuss the processes and procedures to be used to conduct the evaluation and report its findings. We consider implications of psychosocial evaluation findings for the care of both individuals who donate and those who do not donate. Additionally, we discuss donors’ postdonation psychosocial care needs and the ways in which such care, when combined with the collection of postdonation follow-up data, can inform the education and preparation of donor candidates during the predonation evaluation process. Finally, we review both qualitative and quantitative research evidence on the nature of psychosocial outcomes in living donors, risk factors for adverse outcomes, and implications of these data for clinical care and for intervention development.
Dynamic planar point location in optimal time

In this paper we describe a fully-dynamic data structure that supports point location queries in a connected planar subdivision with n edges. Our data structure uses O(n) space, answers queries in O(logn) time, and supports updates in O(logn) time. Our solution is based on a data structure for vertical ray shooting queries that supports queries and updates in O(logn) time.
Regularized heuristic method for activation monitor neutron spectrum unfolding

Abstract This paper describes an activation foil measurement based neutron flux unfolding method utilizing a heuristic optimization approach. A regularization parameter based on the differential neutron flux was introduced into the optimization cost function to remove large nonphysical oscillations in the unfolded neutron energy spectrum . The procedure was completed for two example case studies ranging from thermal energies up to 20 MeV demonstrating recovery of neutron flux energy information on radiation environments where a model was partially missing or there was a discrepancy in a reaction channel. The unfolded results provided a distribution of unfolded spectra that conformed to the activation products but indicated degenerate solutions to the general activation problem. Additionally, increasing fidelity of initial estimate on the neutron spectrum reduced the degeneracies and lowered the uncertainty in the unfolded spectrum, even in a low-fidelity, physics-based estimate of the neutron spectrum. Epithermal neutron energies, where few nuclear reactions are available to inform on the neutron flux, were shown to be the most difficult region. This method can be extended to other heuristic optimization routines and offers an alternative option for traditional activation dosimetry neutron flux unfolding techniques while improving the characterization of the neutron flux in applications with poor initial models of the environment.
A Re-Examination of Johnson's Theory of Backward Wave Oscillation in a Traveling Wave Tube

Most recently, Wong et al. derived an exact hot tube dispersion relation for a tape helix TWT l, based on the exact cold tube dispersion relation obtained by Chernin et al.2 for the same tape helix model. It was found that Pierce's classical 3-wave TWT dispersion relation needs to be modified, in particular the circuit mode is modified by a new term, which they call q. This q for the modification of circuit mode at high beam currents is entirely analogous to Pierce's space charge parameter, Q, for the modification of the beam mode. For forward wave amplification, q may lead to a detune in the circuit mode phase velocity by as much as two percent in a realistic example1. Since Johnson's theory of backward wave oscillation (BWO) in a TWT3 was based solely on Pierce's 3-wave dispersion relation, we analyze the effect of q on Johnson's threshold condition for BWO. The value of q, together with of the values of the Pierce parameters C and Q, will be determined for the backward wave mode using the exact hot-tube dispersion relation1.
Role of Taxtation system in one society

Taxtation system is the back bone of one socitey.With out good Taxtation system the dream of the economic devlopment can not be fulfilled.
Motor Performance and Social Adjustment among Boys Experiencing Serious Learning Difficulties

(1963). Motor Performance and Social Adjustment among Boys Experiencing Serious Learning Difficulties. Research Quarterly. American Association for Health, Physical Education and Recreation: Vol. 34, No. 4, pp. 516-517.
The Four Colour Theorem: Engineering of a Formal Proof

The 150 year old Four Colour Theorem is the first famous result with a proof that requires large computer calculations. Such proofs are still controversial: It is thought that computer programs cannot be reviewed with mathematical rigor. To overturn this belief, we have created a fully computer-checked proof of the Four Colour Theorem. Using the Coq proof assistant, we wrote an extended program that specifies both the calculations and their mathematical justification. Only the interface of the program --- the statement of the theorem --- needs to be reviewed. The rest (99.8%) is self-checking: Coq verifies that it strictly follows the rules of logic. Thus, our proof is more rigorous than a traditional one. Our effort turned out to be more than just an exercise in verification; having to definine rigorously all key concepts provided new mathematical insight into the concept of planarity. Planarity has topological and combinatorial characterizations, which are often confused in arguments that are both pictorially appealing and logically incomplete. The rigor of our computer proof imposed a strict separation between the two. We developed a purely combinatorial theory of planarity based on a symmetrical presentation of hypermaps, which greatly simplified the proof. The theory supplies an elegant analogue of the Jordan Curve property, which allowed us to prove the Theorem under minimal topological assumptions, without appealing to Jordan Curve theorem.
Improved outcomes with earlier surgery for intractable frontal lobe epilepsy.

Objective To explore the prognostic implications of epilepsy duration and age at surgery for seizure outcomes after frontal lobe epilepsy (FLE) surgery. Methods We reviewed 158 patients who underwent FLE surgery from 1995 to 2010. The primary outcome was seizure freedom at last follow-up (Engel class IA). Analyses employed Cox proportional and multiphase hazard modeling. Results The mean age at surgery was 20.4 years, and mean epilepsy duration was 12.0 years. The estimated chance of seizure freedom was 66% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 62–68) at 1 postoperative year, 52% (95% CI = 48–56) at 2 years, and 44% (95% CI = 39–49) at 5 years and beyond. Seventy-five percent of recurrences occurred within 6 postoperative months. Both younger age at surgery (<18 years) and shorter epilepsy duration (<5 years) correlated with better seizure outcomes on univariate analysis, but only epilepsy duration remained statistically significant after multivariate modeling. Independent poor prognostic indicators included left-sided resections and acute postoperative seizures (APOSs; whole model log-rank test p < 0.0001). APOSs were particularly predictive of early epilepsy recurrence, starting within 6 postoperative months (adjusted risk ratio [RR] = 4.42, p < 0.0001), whereas long epilepsy duration correlated with late recurrences (RR = 6.25, p < 0.0001). Worse outcomes were seen with longer epilepsy duration for duration cutoffs of 2, 5, and 10 years independently for adults and children, although statistical significance was only achieved in children (66% seizure free at 5 postoperative years if operated on within 5 years of epilepsy onset vs 31% if later; p = 0.01). Interpretation Early resection may improve seizure outcomes of FLE surgery, particularly in children. Ann Neurol 2013;73:646–654
Broadband ADCP measurements of the Connecticut River plume front

A broadband ADCP and CTD, mounted aboard a towed platform (TOAD), were used to characterize the front of the Connecticut River plume in Long Island Sound on April 5, 1994. The CTD was at /spl sim/0.75 m and the ADCP estimated velocities in 0.25 m intervals from 1.1 m to the bottom, /spl sim/10 m. Data were processed in 5-s intervals yielding backscatter and bottom-track-referenced absolute velocities. Five crossings of the front, two at near normal angles and three at oblique angles, are discussed. Surface convergence was measured at the front. Vertical velocity was measured on the sound side of the front. Scalar measurements (density and backscatter) indicated that the plume thickened near the front.
Sums of Independent Random Variables

Of paramount concern in probability theory is the behavior of sums {Snn ≥1} of independent random variables {Xii ≥ 1}. The case where the {Xi} are i.i.d. is of especial interest and frequently lends itself to more incisive results. The sequence of sums {Snn ≥ 1} of i.i.d. r.v.s {Xn} is alluded to as a random walk; in the particular case when the component r.v.s {Xn} are nonnegative, the random walk is referred to as a renewal process.
The Energy Distribution of Sirius B

The origin of the X-ray emission observed from the DA white dwarf Sirius B is investigated on the basis of low-resolution short wavelength IUE spectrum. Following a correction for the influence of scattered light from Sirius A, the intensity distribution of Sirius B is obtained as a function of wavelength. Comparison of the continuous energy distribution with model atmosphere energy distributions indicates an effective temperature of 25,500 K, which is not high enough to explain the observed X rays as normal photospheric radiation. In addition, with the exception of an unusual feature in the neighborhood of the C I 1657 line, no clear evidence is found of emission lines indicative of a corona, chromosphere or disk, and the origin of the X rays remains unknown.
Learning and upgrading rules for an OCR system using genetic programming

Rule-based systems used for optical character recognition (OCR) are notoriously difficult to write, maintain, and upgrade. The paper describes a method for using genetic programming (GP) to evolve and upgrade rules for an OCR system. The language of the evolved programs was designed such that human hand-coded rules can be included into the initial population in order to upgrade for a new font. The system was successful at learning rules for large character sets consisting of multiple fonts and sizes, with very good generalization to test sets. In addition, the method was found to be successful at updating hand-coded rules written in C for new fonts. This research demonstrates the successful application of GP to a difficult, noisy, real-world problem. >
China's Uranium Enrichment Complex

New public information allows a fresh estimate of China's current and under-construction uranium enrichment capacity. This paper uses open source information and commercial satellite imagery to identify and offer estimates of the capacity of China's 10 operating enrichment facilities, located at 4 sites, using centrifuge technology most likely based on adapting Russian technology. The total currently operating civilian centrifuge enrichment capacity is estimated to be about 4.5 million separative work units/year (SWU/year), with additional capacity estimated to be about 2 million SWU/year under construction. Also China could have an enrichment capacity of around 0.6 million SWU/year for non-weapon military uses (i.e., naval fuel) or dual use. These estimates are much larger than previous public estimates of China's total enrichment capacity. Further expansion of enrichment capacity may be likely since China will require about 9 million SWU/year by 2020 to meet the enriched uranium fuel needs for its plann...
NF-HB (BSAP) is a repressor of the murine immunoglobulin heavy-chain 3' alpha enhancer at early stages of B-cell differentiation.

Abstract We have identified a nuclear factor expressed in pro-B-, pre-B-, and B-cell lines that binds to two sites within the murine immunoglobulin heavy-chain (IgH) 3' alpha enhancer (3' alpha E). These sites were defined by oligonucleotide competition in an electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and methylation interference footprinting. The 3' alpha E-binding factor is indistinguishable from NF-HB (B-lineage-specific nuclear factor that binds to the IgH gene) and the B-lineage-specific transcription factor BSAP by several criteria, including similar cell type distribution of binding activity, cross-competition of binding sites in EMSA, similar protein size as demonstrated by UV cross-linking, and sequence identity of one of the 3' alpha E-binding sites with a BSAP-binding site within the promoter of the sea urchin late histone gene H2A-2.2. These observations indicate that 3' alpha E is one of the mammalian targets for NF-HB (BSAP). Transient-transfection assays with chloramphenicol acetyltransferase gene constructs containing 3' alpha E and mutant 3' alpha E, in which one of the NF-HB binding sites was inactivated by site-specific mutagenesis, showed ca. five- to sixfold-enhanced activity of mutated 3' alpha E over parental 3' alpha E in B-cell lines (NF-HB+), while no significant difference was observed in plasmacytoma cells (NF-HB-). We conclude from these observations that NF-HB (BSAP) acts as a repressor of the mouse IgH 3' alpha E.
A denotational tracing domain for C++ programs

By adding certain denotational constructs to C++, a domain is created wherein programs are traced as an augmentation of their source code. This tracing method is intended to be used along with other instructional strategies for teaching C++ programming.
History matching by spline approximation and regularization in single-phase areal reservoirs

An automatic history matching algorithm is developed based on bi-cubic spline approximations of permeability and porosity distributions and on the theory of regularization to estimate permeability or porosity in a single-phase, two-dimensional real reservoir from well pressure data. The regularization feature of the algorithm is used to convert the ill-posed history matching problem into a well-posed problem. The algorithm employs the conjugate gradient method as its core minimization method. A number of numerical experiments are carried out to evaluate the performance of the algorithm. Comparisons with conventional (non-regularized) automatic history matching algorithms indicate the superiority of the new algorithm with respect to the parameter estimates obtained. A quasioptimal regularization parameter is determined without requiring a priori information on the statistical properties of the observations.
AN ANALYTIC MODEL FOR THE EVOLUTION OF A VISCOUS, IRRADIATED DISK

We describe an analytic model for the evolution of a protoplanetary disk heated by viscous accretion and radiation from the central star. The disk is assumed to be flared and viscosity is assumed to follow an "alpha" model, where viscosity is proportional to the local sound speed and scale height. In the inner disk, the midplane temperature is mainly determined by the energy released by the viscous accretion of material through the disk and onto the star. In the outer disk, stellar irradiation is the dominant heat source. A third regime is present in the innermost part of the disk, where viscous heating dominates but the opacity declines rapidly with increasing temperature due to dust grain sublimation. Changes in the protostellar radius and luminosity over time are readily incorporated into the model, although these have a relatively minor effect on the disk evolution. The model yields the surface density and midplane temperature at any point in space and time during the lifetime of the disk. It is especially suited to studies of planet formation that require a self-consistent model of disk evolution with minimal computational expense.
Comparison of laboratory- and field-derived soil water retention curves for a fine sand soil using tensiometric, resistance and capacitance methods

The approximate range from 100 to 50% of plant-available water in Apopka fine sand (loamy, siliceous, hyperthermic Grossarenic Paleudult) is 0.08–0.04 cm3 cm−3 soil water content (θ) or −5 to −15 kPa of soil water matric potential (φ). This narrow range of plant-available soil water is extremely dry for most soil water sensors. Knowledge of the soil water retention curves for these soils is important for effective irrigation of crops in fine sand soils of subtropical and tropical regions of the world. The primary objective of this study was to compare sandy soil water retention curves in the field as measured by tensiometer and resistance block φ values and capacitance sensor θ. The second objective was to compare these curves to one developed on a Florida fine sand soil using a pressure plate apparatus. Tensiometer and resistance block φ values were compared to θ values from capacitance sensors calibrated gravimetrically. The effective range of both tensiometers and resistance sensors in fine sand soils is between −5 and −20 kPa φ. Soil water potential values for both sensors were within 2 kPa of the mean for each sensor. Change in φ was similar over the range of 0.04–0.08 cm3 cm−3 θ. Curves for the two sensors were different by 4 kPa at 0.04 cm3 cm−3. The relationship between φ and θ were similar at 10–20, 20–30 and 40–50 cm depths. This was not true for a laboratory determined soil water retention curve for the same soil type. These differences are significant in soils with very low water holding capacities. Differences between laboratory- and field-determined retention curves could be due to a combination of entrapped air in the field soil and/or alteration in bulk density in the laboratory samples.
ACE inhibition restores the vasodilator potency of the endothelium-derived relaxing factor, l-S-nitrosocysteine, in conscious Spontaneously Hypertensive rats

Abstract Objective The major aim of this study was to determine whether the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, captopril or enalapril, restore the diminished vasodilator potency of the endothelium-dependent agonist, acetylcholine (ACh), and the endothelium-derived relaxing factor (EDRF), l - S -nitrosocysteine (L-SNC), in conscious Spontaneously Hypertensive (SH) rats. Methods The hemodynamic responses elicited by i.v. injections of ACh, L-SNC, and nitric oxide donors such as MAHMA NONOate, were determined in SH rats treated for 7 days with captopril, enalapril, or the direct vasodilator hydralazine. The effects of captopril, enalapril or hydralazine on oxidant stress levels in blood serum and aorta of WKY and SH rats were also determined. Results Captopril, enalapril and hydralazine elicited equivalent falls in mean arterial pressure and systemic vascular resistances in SH rats. ACh- and L-SNC-induced vasodilation were increased in captopril- or enalapril-treated SH rats such that the responses were equal to those in normotensive Wistar Kyoto rats. The attenuated responses of ACh and L-SNC in SH rats were not improved by hydralazine. The vasodilator effects of MAHMA NONOate, which were substantially augmented in SH rats, were not affected by captopril, enalapril or hydralazine. The levels of oxidant stress were markedly reduced in captopril- or enalapril-treated but not hydralazine-treated SH rats. Conclusions The finding that the ACE inhibitors improved the vasodilator potencies of L-SNC and the EDRF released by ACh in SH rats, suggests that the diminished vasodilator potency of these compounds was due to augmented ACE activity, which increased oxidant stress levels. This study provides the first evidence to support the concept that ACE inhibition lowers arterial pressure in SH rats, at least in part, by restoring the vasodilator potency of endothelium-derived L-SNC.
Laser-processed composite metal cladding for slurry erosion resistance

Abstract Processes based on the fusion of applied powder particles to metal baseplates using a continuous CO 2 laser beam as the heat source can produce a variety of novel clad overlayers. In particular, the simultaneous cladding of a matrix alloy powder and hard-phase particles yields a composite surface microstructure in which the hard-phase particles can retain their integrity in a ductile matrix. These structures are potentially valuable as wear-resistant materials. This paper concerns the evaluation of mixed-particle laser-clad overlays for wear resistance in critical components of coal slurry pipelines. Emphasis has been placed on the microstructural factors influencing surface erosion by the slurry particles. Varying mixtures of hard particles (WC, TiC or MoSi 2 ) and cobalt-base alloy powders were employed. While the number of process variables was large, two parameters exhibited a major influence on the wear properties of the coating. These parameters were (1) the hard particle species and (2) the volume fraction of hard phase in the starting powder. The loading of hard-phase particles was limited to a practical maximum of about 65 vol.%. Hence the laser-clad overlays were generally intermediate in hard particle fraction between conventional hardfacing alloys on the low side and cemented carbides at the other extreme. The slurry erosion rates of laser-processed coatings was consistent with the particle loading, being higher than those of commercial sintered carbides but significantly less than those of precipitation-hardened alloys.
Primary succession trajectories on pumice at Mount St. Helens, Washington

Questions Does vegetation become less variable over time? Do floristic trajectories converge during succession? Can either allogenic (external) or autogenic (internal) factors predict species patterns during succession? Location Pumice Plain of Mount St. Helens (46.23449°N; 122.15929°W, 1230 m a.s.l.), which was sterilized in 1980 by a direct volcanic blast, then buried in pumice. Methods We monitored a grid of 200 100-m2 contiguous plots annually (1989–2010) and classified the 2010 data into five community types (CTs). We characterized plots using external (e.g. distance from relict sites) and internal (e.g. moisture) factors and clustered plots by position and habitat factors to assess trajectories. We used redundancy analysis (RDA) to assess relationships between vegetation and these variables over time. Mantel tests, similarity changes and detrended correspondence analysis (DCA) were used to evaluate successional trends. Results Five CTs were weakly related to habitats at this scale. Over time, vegetation became more homogeneous and successional trajectories of plots clustered by position and habitat factors became more similar or developed in parallel. The succession rate slowed fitfully as persistent species became dominant, while Lupinus fluctuated. Mantel tests indicated that relationships between species and environment were maximized using only autogenic factors. RDA found that autogenic factors were stronger than allogenic ones, while explained variance did not increase after 1992 and factor correlations to species stabilized by 1996. Conclusions The strength of links between vegetation and environment were weak at this scale, yet explained variation stabilized early in succession. As substantial vegetative variation persisted and convergence was far from complete due to weak links to habitat factors, habitat variation and stochastic establishment should be considered by vegetation managers.
Stem cell biology in the study of pathological conditions.

The current focus of researchers is to create certain types of cells in vitroas transplantation materials. The problem of this approach is that terminally differentiated cells may not integrate into t
Sialochemistry in Sjögren's syndrome

The value of sialochemistry in the study of Sjogren's syndrome was explored by comparative examination of a spectrum of parotid components in twelve subjects with a positive diagnosis of the disease and twelve control subjects with normal gland function. The subjects with Sjogren's syndrome all exhibited a marked reduction in flow rate and phosphate concentration and a marked elevation in sodium and chloride concentration. The concentration of IgA was somewhat elevated (commensurate with reduced flow rate); the levels of IgG, IgM, and albumin were normal. The major functional abnormality in the parotid gland in Sjogren's syndrome appears to be luminal transport in the ductal region; leakage of serum components is minimal. Sialochemistry can be helpful in differentiating Sjogren's disease from other diseases of the salivary gland and in assessing degree of pathologic change.
In search of innovation: A national qualitative analysis of child welfare recruitment and retention efforts

Abstract This national qualitative study explores recruitment and retention strategies within state child welfare agencies and the perceived effectiveness of these strategies. The study includes a national review of 50 state child welfare websites, and qualitative interviews with 18 individuals in 13 states. The findings highlight agencies' identification and investment of similar types of recruitment and retention efforts; yet agencies still grapple with elevated turnover rates despite continued efforts. This article comprehensively explored national utilized and underutilized strategies that have been employed to help alleviate child welfare recruitment and retention challenges. Further, mechanisms for overcoming and promoting innovation to understand the effectiveness of child welfare recruitment and retention strategies are addressed.
Cardiac injury after subarachnoid hemorrhage is independent of the type of aneurysm therapy.

OBJECTIVE Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is associated with cardiac injury and dysfunction. Whether aneurysm clipping versus coiling has a differential effect on the risk of troponin release and left ventricular (LV) dysfunction after SAH is unknown. It is hypothesized that aneurysm treatment does not affect the risk of developing cardiac injury and dysfunction. METHODS The study included 172 consecutive SAH patients who underwent clipping (n = 109) or coiling (n = 63) aneurysm therapy. Hemodynamic data were collected, cardiac troponin I was measured, and echocardiography was performed on the 1st, 3rd, and 6th days after enrollment. A cardiac troponin I measurement of more than 1.0 microg/L was considered abnormal. For each echocardiographic examination, a blinded observer measured LV ejection fraction (abnormal if <50%) and quantified LV regional wall motion abnormalities. The incidence of cardiac outcomes in the treatment groups was compared using odds ratios (ORs). RESULTS The coiled patients were older than the clipped patients (mean age, 59 +/- 13 yr versus 53 +/- 12 yr; t test, P < 0.001) and were more likely to have posterior aneurysms (33% versus 18%; chi(2) test, P = 0.019). There were no significant between-group differences in the risk of cardiac troponin I release (coil 21% versus clip 19%; OR = 0.89, P = 0.789), regional wall motion abnormalities (33% versus 28%; OR = 0.76, P = 0.422), or LV ejection fraction lower than 50% (16% versus 17%; OR = 1.06, P = 0.892). No patient died of cardiac causes (heart failure, myocardial infarction, or arrhythmia). CONCLUSION Surgical and endovascular aneurysm therapies were associated with similar risks of cardiac injury and dysfunction after SAH. The presence of neurocardiogenic injury should not affect aneurysm treatment decisions.
Management of back pain in pregnancy

Back pain during pregnancy is a common problem experienced by many pregnant women. Physiological changes during pregnancy are a contributing factor for the development of back pain. Laxity of the sacroiliac joints causes instability and development of sacroiliac pain. The pain may be severe and can interfere with daily activities. Neurological examination is usually normal. A positive straight leg-rising test may indicate herniated disc, which is rare during pregnancy. Noncontrast magnetic resonance imaging is safe in pregnancy. To date, there are no identified adverse effects of the magnetic resonance on the developing fetus, but long-term effects need to be examined. Most back pain in pregnancy can be treated conservatively. Acetaminophen is the drug of choice to treat pain during pregnancy. Epidural steroid injection (ESI) may be considered in certain cases. Data in the literature are deficient regarding the use of ESI in pregnancy, but it appears to be safe based on expert clinical experience. More work is needed to examine the long-term effect of ESI on the mother and the fetus. Surgery is usually postponed until the postpartum period, unless there is progressive neurological deficits or cauda equina syndrome.
Involvement of l-tyrosine and phenol oxidase in the tanning of Aedes aegypti eggs

Abstract l -Tyrosine was found to be the initial precursor involved in the tanning of the chorion of Aedes aegypti eggs. This amino acid became detectable at about 24 h post-blood feeding and significant amounts of this compound accumulated in the ovaries during subsequent egg development. However, no o-diphenolic compounds were synthesized during the development of eggs within the mosquito ovaries. Oviposition of eggs to the outside environment initiated eggshell tanning due to activation of phenol oxidase, which then catalyzed the production of l -DOPA from l -tyrosine and further oxidized l -DOPA and dopamine to their respectivi o-quinones. Hardening and blackening of the chorion was completed in about 4 h. DOPA decarboxylase (DDC) also seemed to be involved in chorion tanning because a high percentage of l -DOPA, produced by the action of phenol oxidase following its activation, was decarboxylated to dopamine in in vitro assays. In addition, the application of the DDC inhibitor, m-hydroxybenzylhydrazine, resulted in an increased time required for the complete tanning of the chorion.
Characterization of the isozymes of pyruvate dehydrogenase phosphatase: implications for the regulation of pyruvate dehydrogenase activity.

Abstract The activity of mammalian pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) is regulated by a phosphorylation/dephosphorylation cycle. Dephosphorylation accompanied by activation is carried out by two genetically different isozymes of pyruvate dehydrogenase phosphatase, PDP1c and PDP2c. Here, we report data showing that PDP1c and PDP2c display marked biochemical differences. The activity of PDP1c strongly depends upon the simultaneous presence of calcium ions and the E2 component of PDC. In contrast, the activity of PDP2c displays little, if any, dependence upon either calcium ions or E2. Furthermore, PDP2c does not appreciably bind to PDC under the conditions when PDP1c exists predominantly in the PDC-bound state. The stimulatory effect of E2 on PDP1c can be partially mimicked by a monomeric construct consisting of the inner lipoyl-bearing domain and the E1-binding domain of E2 component. This strongly suggests that the E2-mediated activation of PDP1c largely reflects the effects of co-localization and mutual orientation of PDP1c and E1 component facilitated by their binding to E2. Both PDP1c and PDP2c can efficiently dephosphorylate all three phosphorylation sites located on the α chain of the E1 component. For PDC phosphorylated at a single site, the relative rates of dephosphorylation of individual sites are: 2>site 3>site 1. Phosphorylation of sites 2 or 3 in addition to site 1 does not have a significant effect on the rates of dephosphorylation of individual sites by PDP1c, suggesting a random mechanism of dephosphorylation. In contrast, there is a significant decrease in the overall rate of dephosphorylation of pyruvate dehydrogenase by PDP2c under these conditions. This indicates that the mechanism of dephosphorylation of PDC phosphorylated at multiple sites by PDP2c is not purely random. These marked differences in the site-specificity displayed by PDP1c and PDP2c should be particularly important under conditions such as starvation and diabetes, which are associated with a great increase in phosphorylation of sites 2 and 3 of pyruvate dehydrogenase.
Risk for domestic violence: factors associated with perpetration and victimization.

The extent and potential dangerousness of the problem of domestic violence warrants systematic screening and assessment in all mental health settings. Few empirical studies have approached the question of domestic violence with the aim of identifying risk markers, making it impossible to identify a particular characteristic or set of characteristics that can be used to identify individuals at risk for perpetrating or becoming the victims of domestic violence. However, there are a number of factors that have been identified as correlates of domestic violence that may eventually prove useful for identifying individuals at risk, but the extant literature does not provide the empirical support at this time. Because many of these correlates may be brought to the attention of mental health and medical professionals (e.g., depression, substance use/abuse, physical injuries) and given the absence of established risk factors for domestic violence, there is a need for clinicians to systematically assess for violence among all of their patients. By identifying factors that might help clinicians realize that many of their patients are at risk for domestic violence, we hope to encourage them to attend to this potentially dangerous problem. Ongoing assessment in the context of knowledge regarding correlates of domestic violence can provide important information for evaluating risk of a particular violent incident. In addition, we outline strategies for assessing violence and violence risk in both perpetrators and victims in order to assist clinicians in approaching this difficult topic in a clinical setting. A careful assessment of the potential for violence within clients' ongoing relationships is necessary for clinicians to provide appropriate clinical care.