cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Preoperative renal tumor evaluation by three-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging: Staging and detection of multifocality

Abstract Objectives To evaluate, retrospectively, the staging accuracy of three-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging (3D-MRI) in our institution as a prelude to a prospective comparison of 3D-MRI and 3D computed tomography (CT) for preoperative planning of partial nephrectomy. In recent years, the use of 3D-CT for preoperative evaluation and surgical planning in patients undergoing nephron-sparing surgery has gained considerable popularity. Methods The images of 26 consecutive patients evaluated by 3D-MRI as part of the preoperative imaging studies for renal tumor were evaluated retrospectively and compared with the surgical pathologic findings to evaluate the ability of 3D-MRI to predict tumor multifocality, tumor stage, collecting system invasion, and venous invasion. Results 3D-MRI accurately predicted tumor multifocality in 1 of 2 cases. Imaging identified five of seven multifocal lesions. Two subcentimeter lesions were missed. Preoperative staging was correct in 29 of 30 lesions (97% accuracy). One T3b tumor was incorrectly staged as T2. Venous invasion was identified in 2 of 3 cases (67% sensitivity), but no false-positive results were seen. 3D-MRI had 100% sensitivity and 88% specificity in the prediction of collecting system invasion. Conclusions The staging accuracy of 3D-MRI appears to be quite good. Given the accuracy of this technique, along with the popularity of 3D imaging before renal surgery, these results provide the impetus for a future study directly comparing 3D-CT with 3D-MRI in the capacity of surgical preoperative planning.
Correlation effects on alkali ion diffusion in binary alkali oxide glasses

Abstract The correlation factor in the Nernst-Einstei equation for low sodium Na2OGeO2 glass determined from dc conductivity and 22Na diffusion coefficient measurements was found to be near unity. Values of the correlation factor were also compiled from the literature for higher alkali content germanate glasses as well as for sodium borate and alkali silicate glasses. In all three systems the correlation factor was found to depend primarily on the alkali content in the glass. Specifically, uncorrelated ionic diffusion ( ƒ ⋍ 1 ) occurs in low alkali glasses while correlated motion ( ƒ ) takes place at higher alkali concentrations. This observation is consistent with the theory that many “holes” exist in low alkali glasses through which the diffusing cation can randomly jump.
Diuretics for the treatment of acute decompensated heart failure

Diuretics have been a mainstay for the treatment of acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) for the past four decades, though their short-term gains have been questioned recently given their potential long-term deleterious systemic effects. The methods of diuretic administration as well as the optimal dosing regimen of these agents are both areas that have been increasingly coming under scrutiny. The lack of rigorous clinical trials examining diuretic use in ADHF, however, has led to a general adoption of non-evidence based treatment algorithms for this patient population. Though the use of intravenous vasodilators for the treatment of decompensated heart failure has grown tremendously over the last few years, the fact remains that diuretics are still indispensable for alleviating congestive symptoms. Given this reality and until further information is available about the most ideal utilization of these medications, diuretics will continue to represent a double-edged sword for physicians treating this disease process.
CONSENSUS AND COMPROMISE: PLANNING IN COOPERATING AGENTS

Resolving disparate viewpoints via planning is an important aspect of the distributed problem solving performed by the agents in Cooperative Intelligent Information Systems. We propose a distributed planning protocol called Consensus. Consensus specifies a methodology by which agents exchange information indicating their preferred actions, integrate these different sets of actions, resolve any conflicts that exist, and choose a joint set of actions. Within the framework of the Consensus protocol, two different heuristics are proposed for resolving conflicts which overcome the computational complexity of an exhaustive search. An implementation of the Consensus protocol is analyzed experimentally to assess its performance in resolving conflicts. The experimental results indicate the trade-off between the cost of planning and the quality of the plan produced with respect to the heuristics used for resolving conflicts.
Shoulder Muscle Activation of Novice and Resistance Trained Women during Variations of Dumbbell Press Exercises

Previous research has compared the effects of trunk inclination angle on muscle activation using barbells and Smith machines in men. Whether similar effects occur with the use of dumbbells or in women remains unknown. The purpose was to compare upper extremity surface electromyographical (EMG) activity between dumbbell bench, incline, and shoulder presses. Dominate arm EMG data were recorded for collegiate-aged female resistance trained individuals (n = 12) and novice female resistance trained exercisers (n = 12) from which average EMG amplitude for each repetition phase (concentric, eccentric) was computed. No significant differences were found between experienced and novice resistance trained individuals. For the upper trapezius and anterior deltoid muscles, shoulder press activation was significantly greater than incline press which in turn was significantly greater than bench press across both phases. The bench and incline presses promoted significantly greater pectoralis major sternal activation compared to the shoulder press (both phases). While pectoralis major clavicular activation during the incline press eccentric phase was significantly greater than both the bench and shoulder presses, activation during the bench press concentric phase promoted significantly greater activation than the incline press which in turn was significantly greater than the shoulder press. These results provide evidence for selecting exercises in resistance and rehabilitation programs.
The meaning of innovation for ESL teachers

Abstract In the past, ESL teachers' primary function was limited to instruction. More recently, however, we are increasingly involved in the creation and implementation of innovations within educational systems considered more broadly. To discharge this increased responsibility, understanding of innovation itself and of procedures for setting innovations in motion is vital. This paper reviews the literature on educational innovation, in order to inform those interested in undertaking a teacher-initiated innovation in ESL programs.
Developing interprofessional communication skills

Abstract Interprofessional collaboration is a key component to patient safety and health profession education. This article will describe the development and implementation of a pilot educational teaching/learning simulation exercise designed to promote teamwork and collaboration between medical students and nursing students. This pilot simulation was an effective and well-received educational intervention. This is a beginning step toward the development of a culture that fosters interprofessional teamwork throughout health care.
Search for CP violation in tau lepton decay

Abstract Using the CLEO II detector a search for CP violation in τ lepton decay has been performed. CP violation can manifest itself as a difference in τ + and τ − angular distributions. Using this technique a sample of τ ± → K ° π ± ν τ decays has been analyzed for evidence of CP violation. No evidence for CP violation is found and we set the model dependent 90% confidence limit −1.7 θ CP
AB-INITIO CALCULATIONS OF ELECTRONIC PROPERTIES OF InP AND GaP

We present results from ab-initio, self-consistent local density approximation (LDA) calculations of electronic and related properties of zinc blende indium phosphide (InP) and gallium phosphide (GaP). We employed a LDA potential and implemented the linear combination of atomic orbitals (LCAO) formalism. This implementation followed the Bagayoko, Zhao and Williams (BZW) method, as enhanced by Ekuma and Franklin (BZW–EF). This method searches for the optimal basis set that yields the minima of the occupied energies. This search entails increases of the size of the basis set and the related modifications of angular symmetry and of radial orbitals. Our calculated, direct band gap of 1.398 eV (1.40 eV), at the Γ point, is in excellent agreement with experimental values, for InP, and our preliminary result for the indirect gap of GaP is 2.135 eV, from the Γ to X high symmetry points. We have also calculated electron and hole effective masses for both InP and GaP. These calculated properties also agree with exp...
Non-mitochondrial complex I proteins in a hydrogenosomal oxidoreductase complex

Trichomonas vaginalis is a unicellular microaerophilic eukaryote that lacks mitochondria yet contains an alternative organelle, the hydrogenosome, involved in pyruvate metabolism. Pathways between the two organelles differ substantially: in hydrogenosomes, pyruvate oxidation is catalysed by pyruvate:ferredoxin oxidoreductase (PFOR), with electrons donated to an [Fe]-hydrogenase which produces hydrogen. ATP is generated exclusively by substrate-level phosphorylation in hydrogenosomes, as opposed to oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria. PFOR and hydrogenase are found in eubacteria and amitochondriate eukaryotes, but not in typical mitochondria. Analyses of mitochondrial genomes indicate that mitochondria have a single endosymbiotic origin from an alpha-proteobacterial-type progenitor. The absence of a genome in trichomonad hydrogenosomes precludes such comparisons, leaving the endosymbiotic history of this organelle unclear. Although phylogenetic reconstructions of a few proteins indicate that trichomonad hydrogenosomes share a common origin with mitochondria, others do not. Here we describe a novel NADH dehydrogenase module of respiratory complex I that is coupled to the central hydrogenosomal fermentative pathway to form a hydrogenosomal oxidoreductase complex that seems to function independently of quinones. Phylogenetic analyses of hydrogenosomal complex I-like proteins Ndh51 and Ndh24 reveal that neither has a common origin with mitochondrial homologues. These studies argue against a vertical origin of trichomonad hydrogenosomes from the proto-mitochondrial endosymbiont.
Digital Image Processing: Concepts, Algorithms, and Scientific Applications

From the Publisher: Now in its fourth edition, this well-established and heavily illustrated book provides natural scientists with ready access to the state-of-the-art of digital image processing and shows them how to use it to gather and analyze data in their research. The book includes a CD-ROM containing numerous color illustrations and a test version of image processing software. 222 illus. 574 pp. Pub: 12/97.
de Haas--van Alphen effect and Fermi surface of lutetium

We report de Haas--van Alphen measurements of the Fermi surface of lutetium at temperatures down to 0.3 K and in fields up to 150 kG in the (1010) and (1120) planes. Lutetium, having a filled 4f shell, serves as a nonmagnetic prototype of the structurally similar (hcp), trivalent, heavy rare-earth elements from Gd to Tm. The fact that no complete frequency branches were observed indicates that there are no closed pieces of the Fermi surface. We observed all but one orbit predicted by relativistic augmented-plane-wave calculations of Keeton and Loucks and by recent spin-orbit--linearized-augmented-plane-wave calculations of Tibbetts and Harmon. The data support a geometry similar to that of yttrium, and in good qualitative agreement with energy-band theory.
Rapid Thermal Multiprocessing For Micro Factories

Future success in microelectronics will demand rapid innovation, rapid product introduction and ability to react to a change in technological and business climate quickly. These technological advances in integrated electronics will require development of flexible manufacturing technology for VLSI systems. However, the current approach of establishing megafactories for mass manufacturing of chips will lead to a skyrocketing cost of more than 1 billion dollars to establish a factory by the end of this century. This could result in serious attrition of chip manufacturers. We propose new concepts of a programmable micro factory which may be characterized by more economical small scale production, higher flexibility to accommodate many products on several processes, and faster turnaround and learning. In-situ multi-processing equipment where several process steps can be done in sequence may be a key ingredient in this approach. For this environment to be flexible, the equipment must have ability to change processing environment, requiring extensive in-situ measurements and real time control. In-process and end-of-process measurements coupled with rapid learning through expert systems will facilitate faster innovation and better ability to react to a change.
Platelet Cytosolic Calcium Responses to Serotonin in Depressed Patients and Controls: Relationship to Symptomatology and Medication

Abstract Background: Serotonin produces an exaggerated rise in platelet cytosolic calcium (Δ[Ca ++ ] i ) in patients with mood disorders. Studies on patients with bipolar disorder consistently demonstrate calcium abnormalities. By comparison, data on patients with major depression are more variable. Methods: To determine causes of variability, we utilized Fura-2 loaded platelets to compare changes in platelet intracellular calcium levels (Δ[Ca ++ ] i ) following serotonin stimulation in 24 patients with major depression and in 20 controls. We also sought relationships between the Δ[Ca ++ ] i responses and scores on clinical depression and anxiety scales. Results: We found positive correlations between Δ[Ca ++ ] i responses and the clinical scales across all subjects. Furthermore, depressed patients with high anxiety had significantly increased Δ[Ca ++ ] i responses compared to depressed patients with low anxiety. In addition, patients receiving selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) demonstrated reduced Δ[Ca ++ ] i responses compared to patients not on SSRIs. Conclusions: Since elevations in [Ca ++ ] i mediate platelet aggregation and secretion cascades, the enhanced responsivity observed in depressed, and in particular anxious, depressed patients may contribute to their increased risk for vascular disease.
The Differential Impact of Parental Warmth on Externalizing Problems Among Triangulated Adolescents

Triangulation is a family-wide process in which children are inappropriately involved in interparental conflict, placing them at heightened risk for adjustment problems. A common form of triangulation occurs by parents pressuring their children to take sides, which may result in feelings of being torn between parents. Externalizing behaviors in particular may develop as adolescents feel caught in the middle of conflict and forced to choose a side. However, the nature of the triadic process of triangulation may be impacted by dyadic-level relationships within the family. The authors thus explored how positive parenting processes may alter the relations between triangulation and adolescent externalizing problems. Mothers, fathers, and adolescents (n = 301 families) provided assessments of adolescent externalizing problems, triangulation, and maternal and paternal warmth. Analyses revealed a 3-way interaction among triangulation and maternal and paternal warmth predicting adolescent externalizing problems; child gender also moderated these relations. Among highly triangulated youth, boys displayed increased externalizing problems when both parents exhibited low or high warmth, whereas girls showed increased behavior problems in the context of low maternal but high paternal warmth. These findings indicate the importance of examining the broader family context and gender when considering the impact of triangulation during adolescence.
Agile manufacturing research: accomplishments and opportunities

Agile manufacturing is a new expression that is used to represent the ability of a producer of goods and services to thrive in the face of continuous change. These changes can occur in markets, in technologies, in business relationships and in all facets of the business enterprise. This paper discusses the genesis of several of the Agile Manufacturing Research Institutes (AMRIs) and their on-going activities and results to date. A vision for agile manufacturing research is articulated and initial accomplishments identified. Additional research needs are also discussed.
Biradicals of the dibenzoylmethane dianion

The reduction products, resulting from treatment of dibenzoylmethane dissolved in an ether, with alkali metals, were studied by means of optical (u.v., Vis and near i.r.) and electron spin resonance (E.S.R.) spectroscopy. Optical absorption spectra confirmed the three step reduction process proposed previously for this compound. Evidence was found for the existence of monomer-dimer equilibria both in solutions of the diamagnetic anion and paramagnetic dianion of dibenzoylmethane. E.S.R. spectra of the paramagnetic ions randomly oriented in a rigid matrix proved the presence of monoradicals and two paramagnetic dimer conformations with triplet ground states. Computer simulations enabled the analysis of the rigid medium spectra. The experimental data provided by the optical and E.S.R. study allowed a proposal for the structures of the two dimers and the mechanism leading to their formation. The computer simulations were based on a lineshape formula for the characteristic rigid matrix E.S.R. spectra produced...
On composite nonlinearities and the decomposition method

Abstract Accurate, convergent, computable solutions using the decomposition method have been demonstrated in and papers for wide classes of nonlinear and/or stochastic differential, partial differential, or algebraic equations. It is shown specifically in this paper that composite nonlinearities of the form Nx = N0(N1(N2(···(x)···) appearing in such equations where the Ni are nonlinear operators can also be handled with the Adomian An polynomials.
PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE PEATLAND CARBON BALANCE: AN EMPIRICAL MODEL BASED ON 210Pb‐DATED CORES

Boreal and subarctic peatlands today represent a large global carbon (C) reservoir. Existing models that describe organic matter accumulation in peatlands over thousands of years are inadequate for predicting short-term responses to changing climate. This paper develops a new, empirically based model that estimates net primary production (NPP) and depth-dependent decay rates (exponential decay k values) of near-surface peat. Application of the model to three sites in boreal Alberta indicates that today the sites are net sinks for atmospheric C at rates of 34–52 g C·m−2·yr−1. Even without climate change, within 80–160 years, these sites will attain steady-state conditions with no further net C accumulation. Climate change scenarios in which NPP or k values are allowed to change gradually and linearly (at 0.1% per year) affect net C sequestration. Any scenario of decreasing NPP or increasing k values results in the peatlands switching from net sinks to net sources of atmospheric C within the next 20–62 year...
Utilizing ethanol to produce stabilized brown rice products.

Oil in brown rice is susceptible to hydrolytic and oxidative deterioration, which can lead to off-odors, off-flavors, and shortened shelf life. This paper discusses lipolytic hydrolysis and oxidation of kernel oil and methods for stabilizing the oil. An overview of processes in which ethanol is used in liquid and vapor states to stabilize brown rice to lipolytic hydrolysis is presented.
DNA replication in vitro erases a Xenopus 5S RNA gene transcription complex

Abstract Replication of the Xenopus laevis 5S RNA gene in vitro is unimpeded by the presence of a complete transcription complex assembled on the internal control region of the gene. The transcription complex is disrupted by passage of the replication fork, specific transcription factors are displaced, and the daughter 5S RNA genes are inactivated. We have been unable to demonstrate that any "memory" of the preexisting transcription complex is transmitted to the daughter DNA duplexes following replication.
PERCEPTION OF MENTALLY SUPERIOR CHILDREN BY THEIR CLASSMATES.

The traits characteristic of gifted children were used to devise 14 items for a Guess-Who test. The test was administered to the classmates of 60 “high-superior” (Binet IQs 140+) fourth, fifth, and sixth grade children. It was found that not only were the high-superior Ss identified beyond chance expectancy but that their “low-superior” classmates (Binet-equivalent IQs 130–140) were also selected beyond chance expectancy on most of the traits. Analysis of the data by grade level (age) indicated that the tendency for high-superior children to be identified as gifted decreased with age while the low-superior Ss were identified with increasing frequency in the older groups. Those high-superior Ss who attended schools of lower socio-economic levels were more likely to be selected as possessing traits of giftedness than were those in high socio-economic schools. Almost the reverse pattern was found for low-superior Ss. High achievement seemed to favor the probability of high-superior Ss' being perceived as gif...
Observation of Magnetic Domain Behavior in Colossal Magnetoresistive Materials With a Magnetic Force Microscope

Magnetic domain behavior was imaged in calcium-doped lanthanum manganese trioxide films. Magnetic domains behave differently at temperatures that are well below and near the Curie temperature T c. At low temperatures the domains are very stable. As temperature rises toward T c, domain-domain interactions become weaker and domains become highly mobile and subject to merging and splitting, yet the domains are still traceable. The contrast (which is a measure of magnetization) and size of domains continuously reduce to zero. The temperature at which the domains disappear agrees with the T c obtained by a macroscopic magnetization measurement. Sample defects such as scratches tend to attract magnetic domains.
An Overview of Depression among Transgender Women

Rates of depression are higher in transgender women than in the general population, warranting an understanding of the variables related to depression in this group. Results of the literature review of depression in transgender women reveal several variables influencing depression, including social support, violence, sex work, and gender identity. The theoretical constructs of minority stress, coping, and identity control theory are explored in terms of how they may predict depression in transgender women. Depression and depressive symptoms have been used to predict high-risk sexual behaviors with mixed results. The implications of the findings on treating depression in transgender women include taking into account the stress of transition and the importance of supportive peers and family. Future studies should explore a model of depression and high-risk behaviors in transgender women.
Velocity of sound and equations of state for methanol and ethanol in a diamond-anvil cell.

The adaptability of laser-induced phonon spectroscopy to the determination of acoustic velocity and the equation of state in the diamond-anvil high-pressure cell is demonstrated. The technique provides a robust method for measurements at high pressure in both solids and liquids so that important problems in high-pressure elasticity and the earth sciences are now tractable. The velocity of sound and the density of methanol at 25°C have been measured up to a pressure of 6.8 gigapascals. These results imply a higher density (by approximately 5 percent) for liquid methanol above 2.5 gigapascals than that given in existing compilations. The adiabatic bulk modulus increases by a factor of 50 at a maximum compression of 1.8. The thermodynamic Gruneisen parameters of methanol and ethanol both increase with increasing pressure, in contrast to the behavior of most solids.
Deoxyribonucleic Acid Side-Chain Model of the Chromosomes

AT the 1954 Oak Ridge Symposium on Genetic Recombination, I proposed a model of the chromosome in which the molecules of deoxyribonucleic acid projected as side-chains from the main protein axis of the chromosome1. The advantages of such a model for explaining the results of cross-over studies involving closely linked markers were briefly discussed at one of the sessions of the 1956 Cold Spring Harbor Symposium on Genetic Mechanism. In this model, the genes (deoxyribonucleic acid) are linearly arranged along the chromosome; however, the linearity within the gene is not continuous with, or a part of, the linearity between genes. Intergenic cross-overs would be of the classical type involving exchanges of whole segments of the chromosome, whereas intragenic cross-overs would not exchange other markers on the chromosome. According to this conception, the chromosome is composed of alternate sections of deoxyribonucleic acid and protein. To satisfy the requirement for chromosomal continuity it was suggested that the two chains of the Watson–Crick deoxyribonucleic acid double helix are tied together at the free end. Taylor2 has published a chromosome model that differs from mine in that the chromosomal elements are tied together at the other end of the deoxyribonucleic acid instead by making the backbone continuous. In this communication I propose to consider three lines of evidence that may serve to distinguish between these two models.
Fusarium solani: evidence for common antigenic/allergenic determinants with other Fungi Imperfecti.

Summary Aqueous extracts of Fusarium solani and other members of the Fungi Imperfecti were evaluated for the presence of common antigenic/allergenic determinants using skin-prick testing, radio-allergo-sorbent test (RAST) inhibition, and immunoelectrophoretic methods. Prevalence of skin reactivity in forty-four atopic individuals, tested with commercially available fungal extracts, ranged from 27.3% for Alternaria tenuis to 6.8% for Penicillium notatum. No specific patterns of reactivity emerged from statistical analyses of skin test data. In contrast, RAST inhibition demonstrated common allergenic determinants. P. notatum and Aspergillus glaucus inhibited F. solani RAST by 79% and 84%, respectively. This was supported by crossed line immunoelectrophoresis; both P. notatum and A. glaucus had antigenic determinants in common with F. solani. Collectively, these studies suggest that F. solani, P. notatum, and A. glaucus have several common antigenic/allergenic determinants.
Correlation of functional magnetic source imaging with intraoperative cortical stimulation in neurosurgical patients.

This study compared noninvasive preoperative functional imaging by using magneto-encephalography (MEG) with intraoperative direct cortical stimulation in ten patients undergoing neurosurgery. The goal was to assess the accuracy and reliability of MEG-based functional imaging in these patients as a possible replacement or adjunct for direct cortical stimulation with electrocorticography. Objective comparison of intraoperative mapping with preoperative MEG procedures was achieved by intraoperative recording of mapped cortical locations for motor responses using an interactive image-guided surgical device, the ISG viewing wand, with which mapping points could be marked on a previously acquired (MRI) set. In all ten patients, at least one stimulation site elicited a response during both MEG and intraoperative mapping. The central sulcus ipsilateral to the lesion was only directly visible on high-resolution MRIs in 3/10 cases and equivocally in 2/10. Coregistered with MRI to form magnetic source images (MSIs), MEG predictions of the postcentral gyrus were possible in all 10 cases. In all 10 cases, these were in agreement with intraoperative estimation of the precentral gyrus. Functional mapping of somatosensory cortex was achieved noninvasively in surgical patients by using MSI. The accuracy, compared with cortical stimulation, was always sufficient to define motor and somatosensory strips. J Image Guid Surg 1:339–347 (1995). © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Inhalation fertility and reproduction studies with O,O'-dimethylphosphorodithioate in Sprague-Dawley rats.

Abstract Groups of 15 male and 35 female Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to O,O′ -dimethylphosphorodithioate (DMPDT) 6 hr/day, 5 days/week for 11 weeks. Initial target concentrations were 0, 4, 25, and 200 mg/m 3 . However, because of excessive toxicity, the high-exposure level was reduced to 125 mg/m 3 after 8 weeks. Exposed males were cohoused with two unexposed females immediately following the exposure period and later mated to an additional two unexposed females following a 16-week recovery period. Exposed females were cohoused with untreated males, and exposures were resumed after mating and continued during gestation. Some females were terminated at midgestation to assess fertility, while others were allowed to deliver their pups. F 1 animals were terminated for histological examination or mated to assess fertility. High-exposure level F 0 males were infertile after exposures, and there was little or no recovery. The fertility of low-exposure level males was not affected, but equivocal results were obtained at the mid-exposure level. In this study, testicular lesions were observed only in high level F 0 males. However, testicular lesions were also noted in a few males exposed to 4 and 25 mg/m 3 in a concurrent subchronic toxicity study. Female fertility was apparently unaffected by exposure, and no treatment-related effects were noted in males or females exposed in utero .
Inter-rater reliability as a reflection of ambiguity in the communication of deaf and normally-hearing children

This study involves (a) procedures for coding intentionality and communicative function from the behavior of young children, (b) determining inter-rater reliability on those decisions, and (c) making judgments about which data to use for presentation and analysis. Communication data from videotaped interactions of 48 deaf and 96 normally-hearing children (12-54 months of age) and their mothers were obtained from two independent coders. As predicted, the percent-agreement between coders was higher for older children and for hearing children compared to deaf children. It is argued that the ambiguity reflected in poor coder agreement for less skilled communicators may represent the extent to which these children are understood. It is suggested that for such children data analysis should be restricted to those behaviors on which two independent coders agree.
A numerical study of oxidation behavior during reactive atomization and deposition

The oxidation behavior of droplets during reactive atomization and deposition (RAD) is analyzed on the basis of a numerical framework proposed here. Commercial 5083 Al is chosen as a model material; moreover, in the numerical model, nonspherical droplets are approximated as cylinders with a length/diameter ratio of 3. An equation that represents the growth rate of the oxide phases, together with models that describe the dynamic and thermal behavior of droplets, is implemented in an effort to elucidate the oxidation behavior of individual droplets. The numerical results reveal that the oxidation rate of a droplet is extremely high and that the oxide phase grows very rapidly initially, eventually attaining a steady state of limited oxide growth. The overall volume fraction of oxide phases in the RAD material increases with increasing atomization pressure, superheat temperature, and O2 concentration, whereas it decreases with increasing melt flow rate. The oxygen concentrations in the RAD powders and deposited materials predicted on the basis of numerical analysis are in good agreement with the results from chemical analysis when O2 concentration is lower than 16 vol pct.
Recombinant murine tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibits cholesterol side-chain cleavage cytochrome P450 and insulin-like growth factor-I gene expression in rat Leydig cells

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effects of murine recombinant tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) on rat Leydig cell function. In primary cultures of Leydig cells, we found that in the presence of hCG (10 ng/ml), testosterone levels were markedly elevated, 69.3 ± 3.1 ng/106 cells/h (mean ± SE). TNF-α in a concentration of 1 ng/ml markedly inhibited testosterone biosynthesis (a 69% reduction; p < 0.01) and 100 ng/ml of TNF-α almost completely inhibited testosterone formation (p < 0.001). TNF-α (10 ng/ml) inhibited hCG (0.1, 1 and 10 ng/ml)-induced testosterone formation by 63%, 67% and 61%, respectively. TNF-α (10 ng/ml) also markedly inhibited 8-bromo cAMP-induced testosterone formation from 76 ± 9 ng/106 cells/h to 4.9 ng/106 cells/h. This indicates that the major effect of TNF-α is at $teps beyond LH receptor site. To further evaluate the site(s) of action of TNF-α, we evaluated its effect on the conversion of precursor steroids to testosterone. We found that the addition of 20-hydroxy-cholesterol could not reverse inhibitory effects of TNF-α on hCG-in- duced testosterone formation. TNF-α had no effect on the conversions of pregnenolone, 17-OH-pregnenolone, DHEA and androstenedione to testosterone. This indicates that the major effect of TNF-α is at the key steroidogenic enzyme, P450scc. We reported previously that human recombinant TNF-α had no effect on hCG-induced testosterone formation but did enhance the inhibitory effects of human recombinant IL-1β. In the present study, we demonstrated that both murine TNF-α and human IL-1β were potent inhibitors of hCG-induced testosterone formation. IL-1β alone in concentrations of 0.1, 1 and 10 ng/ml inhibited testosterone formation by 45%, 62% and 91%, respectively, in the presence of TNF-α (10 ng/ml), IL-1β in a concentration as low as 0.1 ng/ml completely blocked hCG-induced testosterone formation. We next evaluated the effect of TNF-α on P450scc gene expression. There was no constitutively expressed P450scc mRNA in Leydig cells after 24 h in culture. In response to hCG, there was a 33-fold increase in the P450scc mRNA level. Both TNF-α and IL-1β inhibited hCG-induced expression of P450scc mRNA. Finally, the effect of TNF-α on IGF-I gene expression was investigated since IGF-I enhances Leydig cell androgen formation and IGF-I gene is expressed in high levels in Leydig cells. TNF-α inhibited both large (7.4 kb) and small species (0.8-1.2 kb) IGF-I mRNA levels in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, murine TNF-α is a potent inhibitor of Leydig cell function. TNF-α inhibited both P450scc and IGF-I mRNA gene expression.
Does the possession of virulence factor genes mean that those genes will be active

There are a number of relationships the host can establish with the microbes we ingest. For the vast majority of microbes, they have a short-lived liaison with the human host. Either they are destroyed by the stomach acid or bile, or can not establish even a temporary residency in the gastrointestinal tract. Early in life the mucosal surfaces of the body establishes a resident, and generally stable, normal flora. These normal flora microbes, the majority of which are bacteria, have specific receptors for specific areas of the alimentary tract. If the foreign microbe can establish residency, it then may transiently or permanently become part of the normal flora. However, in order to produce disease, it must possess an additional set of virulence factors. While some of these are known, many are not. Those that are known include enzymes, such as protease, lipase, and esterase. Accordingly, VFAR may not be associated with human disease and its presence or absence has no public health meaning.
Prolyl-tRNAPro in the A-site of SecM-arrested Ribosomes Inhibits the Recruitment of Transfer-messenger RNA

Translational pausing can lead to cleavage of the A-site codon and facilitate recruitment of the transfer-messenger RNA (tmRNA) (SsrA) quality control system to distressed ribosomes. We asked whether aminoacyl-tRNA binding site (A-site) mRNA cleavage occurs during regulatory translational pausing using the Escherichia coli SecM-mediated ribosome arrest as a model. We find that SecM ribosome arrest does not elicit efficient A-site cleavage, but instead allows degradation of downstream mRNA to the 3'-edge of the arrested ribosome. Characterization of SecM-arrested ribosomes shows the nascent peptide is covalently linked via glycine 165 to tRNA(3Gly) in the peptidyl-tRNA binding site, and prolyl-tRNA(2Pro) is bound to the A-site. Although A-site-cleaved mRNAs were not detected, tmRNA-mediated ssrA tagging after SecM glycine 165 was observed. This tmRNA activity results from sequestration of prolyl-tRNA(2Pro) on overexpressed SecM-arrested ribosomes, which produces a second population of stalled ribosomes with unoccupied A-sites. Indeed, compensatory overexpression of tRNA(2Pro) readily inhibits ssrA tagging after glycine 165, but has no effect on the duration of SecM ribosome arrest. We conclude that, under physiological conditions, the architecture of SecM-arrested ribosomes allows regulated translational pausing without interference from A-site cleavage or tmRNA activities. Moreover, it seems likely that A-site mRNA cleavage is generally avoided or inhibited during regulated ribosome pauses.
Liposome-mediated gene transfer into human vascular smooth muscle cells.

BACKGROUNDComplexing recombinant DNA with cationic liposomes is a convenient means of introducing foreign genes into cells (lipofection) and could potentially form the basis for genetically modifying diseased blood vessels in patients. The mechanism of lipofection is incompletely understood, but it is recognized that the degree of successful gene transfer is highly dependent on cell type. To date, there has been no reported experience with lipofection of human vascular smooth muscle cells.METHODS AND RESULTSPrimary cultures of human vascular smooth muscle cells were transfected under optimized conditions with a plasmid expressing either firefly luciferase (Luc) or nuclear-localized beta-galactosidase (NL-beta-gal). Cells were derived from either normal human internal mammary arteries (n = 6), fragments of primary atherosclerotic plaque (n = 4), or fragments of restenotic lesions (n = 5). Concurrent lipofection of rabbit vascular smooth muscle cells and NIH 3T3 cells was performed as well. Cultures derived...
Resonance assignments for stromelysin complexed with a β-sulfonyl hydroxamate inhibitor

The sequence specific 1H, 13C, and 15N resonance assignments for stromelysin, a Matrix metalloproteinase, are reported in this article. Almost 70% of assignable backbone and side-chain atoms were assigned in this highly dynamic protein.
Nuclear-spin relaxation near the metal-insulator transition.

A novel mechanism of nuclear-spin relaxation in doped semiconductors due to singlet pairs of local moment is introduced. It is argued that this mechanism, together with a Korringa-type relaxation, operates on both sides of the metal-insulator transition. Our picture explains the anomalous temperature and magnetic field dependence observed experimentally.
PSTV sequence similarity to large rRNA

The sequence similarities between the negative strand of potato spindle tuber viroid and a highly conserved region of large ribosomal RNAs from E. coli, Saccharomyces carlsbergensis, Dictyostelium discoideum and higher plants, are presented.
Continuum of impulsiveness caused by auditory masking.

Objective: Impulsivity is a hallmark of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Various auditory masking procedures can quantify the impulsivity caused by distracting background sounds. This study compares the impulsiveness and distraction caused by informational masking (unpredictable tones) with previously published data on central masking (contralateral noise) in children with and without ADHD. Methods: Twenty-six normal and 14 children diagnosed as having ADHD (combined type), all between the ages of 7 and 13, indicated whether they heard a 512-ms, 500-Hz pure tone in a single-interval task under conditions of informational masking and in quiet. The masker consisted of 10 randomly selected frequencies between 1000 and 2500 Hz presented simultaneously at an overall level of 60 dB SPL. A maximum-likelihood method estimated thresholds and false alarm rates. Results: There were no differences due to ADHD in thresholds or false alarm rates either with informational masking or in quiet. With informational masking, normal children had high false alarm rates, similar to those from children with ADHD under central masking. With informational masking, all children tended to say a stimulus was present when it was not. Conclusions: All children behave impulsively under some conditions. Pediatric patients with attention disorders can thus be reassured that impulsiveness with unpredictable background sounds is normal, to some extent. Response biases of children with ADHD may only diverge from normal in situations where distracting external stimuli have an intermediate level of predictability. A previous study showed that with central masking, children with ADHD are more impulsive than normal. There appears to be a limit to the uncertainty in auditory masking that can be tolerated by children. Children with ADHD become impulsive at lower levels of uncertainty than normal. Increasing the predictability of distracting background sounds may thus improve the performance of children with ADHD. Informational masking may, for normal listeners, mimic something of what it is like to have an attention deficit. ADHD can be profitably studied with auditory tasks.
The business cycle and the incidence of workplace injuries: Evidence from the U.S.A.

Abstract Introduction The current study explored the association between the business cycle and the incidence of workplace injuries to identify cyclically sensitive industries and the relative contribution of physical capital and labor utilization within industries. Method Bureau of Labor Statistics nonfatal injury rates from 1976 through 2007 were examined across five industry sectors with respect to several macroeconomic indicators. Within industries, injury associations with utilization of labor and physical capital over time were tested using time series regression methods. Results Pro-cyclical associations between business cycle indicators and injury incidence were observed in mining, construction, and manufacturing but not in agriculture or trade. Physical capital utilization was the highest potential contributor to injuries in mining while labor utilization was the highest potential contributor in construction. In manufacturing each effect had a similar association with injuries. Conclusion The incidence of workplace injury is associated with the business cycle. However, the degree of association and the mechanisms through with the business cycle affects the incidence of workplace injuries was not the same across industries. Impact on Industry The results suggest that firms in the construction, manufacturing, and mining industries should take additional precautionary safety measures during cyclical upturns. Potential differences among industries in the mechanisms through which the business cycle affects injury incidence suggest different protective strategies for those industries. For example, in construction, additional efforts might be undertaken to ensure workers are adequately trained and not excessively fatigued, while safety procedures continue to be followed even during boom times.
Mass spectrometric analysis of long chain alk-1-enyl ether esters and alkyl ether esters of diols

The mass spectra of homologous series of long chain alk-1-enyl ether esters and alkyl ether esters of short chain diols were determined, and general patterns of fragmentation were established. Both types of diol lipids yielded ions characteristic of the alkoxy or alk-1-enyloxy moiety and the acyl moiety, as well as ions indicative of the constituent short chain diol. Prominent ions were formed from both types of ether esters due to the loss of the alkoxy or alk-1-enyloxy moieties giving rise to ions for which cyclic structures are proposed. High resolution mass spectrometry and deuterium labeling techniques were used to verify the composition of ions and to substantiate fragmentation mechanisms.
Microcomputer supplementation of a liquid scintillation spectrometer

Quench correction, calculation of disintegration rate, and other numerical processing of data from older liquid scintillation spectrometers may be greatly accelerated by replacing the teletypewriter printers of these instruments with an inexpensive microcomputer system. Correction of long‐term system drift due to environment and aging, reformatting of data output, plotting, and statistical analysis are among other possible applications. We present a simple method for interfacing a Packard 3390 Tri Carb with a Rockwell AIM‐65 microcomputer and dot matrix printer.
A simulation model of the human pupil light reflex

Abstract A system-type model of the human pupil light reflex was developed which relates sensory and motor physiological processes to experimentally determined behavioral features such as the Weber-Fechner law, Bloch's law, critical duration, and the expansive range nonlinearity. A major objective of the model was that it be capable of representing ten major light-reflex behavior characteristics with physiologically reasonable elements (i.e., integrators and lead and lag elements) and a structure compatible with the known light-reflex pathway. Model parameters were adjusted through simulation on a digital computer to match human data for a wide variety of stimulus conditions. Further simulations produced results which matched not only those behaviors for which the model was developed and adjusted, but overall, large-signal responses as well.
The use of PIXE in generating evidence for primordial superheavy elements

Abstract The physical and chemical nature of the monazite inclusions studied through PIXE in the search for superheavy elements sharply constrained the nature of the analysis and set strict limits on the nature fo the ion beam and X-ray detection techniques.
An interactive game for production and financial planning

Abstract This paper describes a computerized interactive game for use by students of business administration. The problem situation involves the need to determine an aggregate production plan for a small manufacturing firm which faces highly seasonal demand for its product. The student user is required to make decisions regarding planned manpower and production levels in future periods. In order to assist him in making these decisions, functional relationships describing pertinent production costs (wages, cost of hiring and firing, cost of carrying inventory) and financial costs (the cost of borrowing money to support production) are made available to the student decision maker.