cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
P13. Biomechanical effects of proximal PEEK rod extension on the upper instrumented and adjacent levels in a human long segment construct: A cadaveric model

BACKGROUND CONTEXT Proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) is a sequela of spinal fusion that is potentially related to mechanical failure and revision surgery. The high mechanical stress zone, created by the sudden transition from a rigid to a flexible region, is involved in PJK physiopathology. PURPOSE We evaluated the biomechanical performance of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) rods used as a semi-rigid transition from a long-segment metallic rod construct to a non-fused thoracic spine. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING Cadaveric biomechanical study. PATIENT SAMPLE Seven human cadaveric specimens. METHODS Seven cadaveric specimens (T2-pelvis with intact rib cage) were used for this study. Standard pure moment range of motion (ROM) tests (7.5 Nm) were performed in flexion, extension, lateral bending (LB), and axial rotation (AR) followed by compression (200 N). Specimens were tested 1) intact, 2) after instrumentation with T10-S1 pedicle screws and S2 alar-iliac screws and metallic rods (PSR), 3) and after extending the proximal construct to T6 using PEEK rods (PSR+PEEK). T10-T11 rod strain, T9 anterolateral bone strain, and T10 screw bending moments were analyzed using paired t test or repeated measures analysis of variance. RESULTS PSR decreased T10-T11 ROM in all loading directions (mean 80%), but the decrease was statistically significant only during flexion (70%, P=0.003). PSR+PEEK significantly decreased ROM during flexion (68%, P=0.04) compared with PSR. Compared with PSR, PSR+PEEK significantly decreased T9-T10 ROM in flexion (115%, P=0.003), extension (104%, P=0.006), left LB (46%, P=0.01), and right LB (63%, P=0.02). Compared to the intact condition, PSR+PEEK significantly decreased T9-T10 ROM in flexion (111%, P=0.01) and extension (105%, P=0.003). For PSR+PEEK versus PSR, T5-T6 ROM decreased in all directions (mean 27%) but only significantly during extension (44%, P=0.03) and left AR (40%, P=0.048). The reduction in T9 anterior column bone strain was statistically significant with PSR+PEEK versus PSR during right LB (P=0.02). Compared with PSR, PSR+PEEK significantly reduced the contralateral T10 screw bending moment by 37% (left AR, P=0.03), while the mean ipsilateral decrease was not significant at 14% (right AR, P=0.53). Rod strain polarities reversed with PEEK rods in all loading directions except compression. CONCLUSIONS Extending a long-segment construct using PEEK rods redistributed the strain on the upper instrumented and adjacent levels, and caused a decrease in adjacent-level hypermobility, which might contribute to the physiopathology of PJK. Further studies are necessary to observe the clinical outcome of this technique. FDA DEVICE/DRUG STATUS PEEK rods (Approved for this indication).
Hepatic sarcoidosis resembling primary sclerosing cholangitis

We report the case of a 29-year-old man who presented with progressive weight loss, night sweats, abdominal pain and pruritus who was found to have obstructive jaundice and cholestatic pattern of liver injury on laboratory workup. Though findings on magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography were initially concerning primary sclerosing cholangitis, he was ultimately diagnosed with biliary sarcoidosis after a liver biopsy. This case brings attention to the rare phenomenon of hepatic sarcoidosis causing hyperbilirubinemia and highlights the importance of reaching the correct diagnosis early, as the patient's symptoms improved after initiation of steroids.
Two decades of the Journal of Marketing Channels’ research: Providing direction for the future of inter-organizational research

For over 25 years, the Journal of Marketing Channels was a hub for marketing channel research. Today, over 4,000 citations of the JMC’s exist in periodicals and publications from the field of marke...
Effect of Anode Shape and Hollow on Neutron Yield in a 4.4 KJ Dense Plasma Focus Device

The Dense Plasma Focus (DPF) is a Z-pinch configuration where coaxial electrodes channel a dynamic plasma sheath along the anode, resulting in a hot dense pinch near the anode tip. DPF is capable of producing X-rays, energetic ions, and high intensity, fast neutron pulses. Ongoing experiments using a 4.4 kJ Mather-type DPF exploring the role of anode geometry will be presented, with a focus on several geometries highlighted in recent theoretical works 1 , 2 , including curved and flat anodes with and without a hollow center. The convergence of plasma on axis is heavily influenced by the relationship between the residual axial motion of the plasma sheath relative to the inward driving force, which is primarily affected by the anode geometry and operating fill pressure. Trends in neutron yield measured by a calibrated Be activation detector will be presented alongside laser probing diagnostics and high energy X-ray sensitive photodiode measurements.
Art music and the economy: the modernity index and the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, 1895 to 2013

This article views the production and performance of new art music as a public good that benefits society by infusing vitality into contemporary culture. This article presents a new modernity index (MI), a consistent index for assessing the degree to which a season of music programmes can be considered 'contemporary'. The article also presents a case study of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra (CSO), for the period 1895 to 2013. Analysis of the MI reveals trends over time, clearly showing a reduction in modernity as time goes on. This article discusses how the data based on the MI may be used by artistic organisations to transition its historic product (repertoire) into a more modern and socially relevant product. The study suggests that further research should examine increasing reliance on a private good model for financing art music that may lead to underproduction of contemporary art music.
The Holy Spirit and the Soul as Revealed in Nature

The artist Anna Lea Merritt (1844–1930) was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and spent most of her professional life in London and in a rural village in Surrey. She settled in England in 1871 and soon became a friend of the members of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood in their mature years, the art critic John Ruskin, the late Victorian artists George Frederick Watts and Frederick, Lord Leighton, and others in the London artistic and literary community. In the milieu she had chosen, her intimate and spiritual relationship with nature and her sympathy for all mankind, ingrained in her in childhood among Unitarians and Quakers in Philadelphia, developed into paintings, murals, and etchings that were at once academic, naturalistic, and mystical. In re-introducing this little known woman artist today, this article focuses on her work as one that evokes the spirit and beauty of the natural world and sympathy for the plight of the suffering, both eloquent testimonials to the ideals and beliefs of her renowned friend and contemporary, John Ruskin and to late Victorian liberal sensibilities.
An analysis of human equilibrative nucleoside transporter‐1, ribonucleoside reductase subunit M1, ribonucleoside reductase subunit M2, and excision repair cross‐complementing gene‐1 expression in patients with resected pancreas adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND: Tumor overexpression of excision repair cross-complementing gene-1 (ERCC1) may be associated with decreased survival in patients with pancreas adenocarcinoma (PAC). Human equilibrative nucleoside transporter-1 (hENT1) and ribonucleoside reductase subunits M1 and M2 (RRM1 and RRM2) are integral to cellular transport and DNA synthesis and are implicated as poor prognostic factors in other malignancies. To the authors's knowledge, their role in PAC is not defined. METHODS: A prospective database was used to randomly select 95 patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy for PAC between January 2000 and October 2008. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed on tumor samples for hENT1, RRM1 and RRM2, and ERCC1. Main outcomes were recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS). RESULTS: The median follow-up, RFS, and OS were 49 months, 10.6 months, and 15.5 months, respectively. The median tumor size was 3 cm. Approximately 26% of patients had positive microscopic margins, 61% had lymph node involvement, and 88% and 45% had perineural and lymphovascular invasion, respectively. High tumor expression of hENT1, RRM1, RRM2, and ERCC1 was present in 85%, 40%, 17%, and 16%, respectively, of patients. High hENT1 expression was associated with reduced RFS (9.5 months vs 44.5 months; P = .029), but not with OS. RRM1 expression was not associated with survival. High RRM2 expression was associated with reduced RFS (6.9 months vs 16.0 months; P < .0001) and decreased OS (9.1 months vs 18.4 months; P < .0001). High ERCC1 expression was associated with reduced RFS (6.1 months vs 15 months; P = .04) and decreased OS (8.9 months vs 18.1 months; P = .03). After accounting for known adverse tumor factors, high expression of RRM2 and ERCC1 persisted as negative prognostic factors for RFS and OS. A subset analysis of patients who received adjuvant therapy (n = 74) revealed the same negative effect of high RRM2 and ERCC1 expression on RFS and OS. CONCLUSIONS: High tumor expression of RRM2 and ERCC1 are associated with reduced RFS and OS after resection of pancreas cancer. These biomarkers may help to personalize adjuvant therapy. Cancer 2013. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Diagnosing performance changes by comparing request flows

The causes of performance changes in a distributed system often elude even its developers. This paper develops a new technique for gaining insight into such changes: comparing request flows from two executions (e.g., of two system versions or time periods). Building on end-to-end request-flow tracing within and across components, algorithms are described for identifying and ranking changes in the flow and/or timing of request processing. The implementation of these algorithms in a tool called Spectroscope is evaluated. Six case studies are presented of using Spectroscope to diagnose performance changes in a distributed storage service caused by code changes, configuration modifications, and component degradations, demonstrating the value and efficacy of comparing request flows. Preliminary experiences of using Spectroscope to diagnose performance changes within select Google services are also presented.
Unusual characteristics of electromagnetic waves excited by cometary newborn ions with large perpendicular energies

Solution of the linear kinetic dispersion equation shows that cometary new-born ions with large perpendicular energies (large initial angles between the solar wind velocity and the IMF) can excite a wave mode with rest frame frequencies of the order of the heavy ion cyclotron frequency which exhibits maximum growth slightly away (6°–15°) from parallel propagation, together with high mass density compression ratios and almost linear polarization. The association of these properties is relevant to space observations of MHD-like waves at comets and in planetary foreshocks and has not been reported in the vast literature on possible instability mechanisms. Dilute drifting oxygen ion and photoelectron rings with finite thermal spreads model the free energy source in the solar wind frame. For parallel propagation, the mode of interest is left-hand circularly polarized, moves in the direction of the newborn particles, and is predominantly fed by the perpendicular energy of the heavy ions; as obliquity increases, its polarization and compression change rapidly. Modification of the free energy source parameters (ring density, drift velocity, perpendicular speed and thermal spread) determines their relative influence, defines the domain of existence of the mode, and shows that it might evolve into a nonoscillatory, purely growing structure distinct from the mirror wave. The results are also applicable to non-cometary environments.
Duplication of HEY2 in cardiac and neurologic development

HEY2 is a basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor that plays an important role in the developing mammalian heart and brain. In humans, nonsynonymous mutations in HEY2 have been described in patients with atrial ventricular septal defects, and a subset of individuals with chromosomal deletions involving HEY2 have cardiac defects and cognitive impairment. Less is known about the potential effects of HEY2 overexpression. Here, we describe a female child with tetralogy of Fallot who developed severe right ventricular outflow tract obstruction due to a combination of infundibular and valvular pulmonary stenosis. She was also noted to have hypotonia, lower extremity weakness, fine motor delay and speech delay. A copy number variation (CNV) detection analysis followed by real-time quantitative PCR analysis revealed a single gene duplication of HEY2. This is the only duplication involving HEY2 identified in our database of over 70,000 individuals referred for CNV analysis. In the developing heart, overexpression of HEY2 is predicted to cause decreased expression of the cardiac transcription factor GATA4 which, in turn, has been shown to cause tetralogy of Fallot. In mice, misexpression of Hey2 in the developing brain leads to inhibition of neurogenesis and promotion of gliogenesis. Hence, duplication of HEY2 may be a contributing factor to both the congenital heart defects and the neurodevelopmental problems evident in our patient. These results suggest that individuals with HEY2 duplications should be screened for congenital heart defects and monitored closely for evidence of developmental delay and/or cognitive impairment.
Brown Dwarfs in Binary Systems

Searches for brown dwarf companions to known stars have revealed a number of tantalizing candidates.
Four-mode squeezing in an optical fiber

It has been predicted that three- or four-wave mixing with two or more pump frequencies can produce squeezing (2N-mode squeezing) that is potentially greater than that produced by single-frequency pumping (two-mode squeezing).1,2 We demonstrated four-mode squeezing via four-wave mixing with two pump frequencies in an optical fiber.3
Colloquium : Theory of intertwined orders in high temperature superconductors

Understanding high temperature superconductors is a central problem in condensed matter physics. Many experiments have uncovered ordering tendencies which are responsible for the complex phase diagram of high temperature superconductors. This Colloquium discusses the interplay between different order parameters in these materials. Considering the intertwining of these orders leads to new experimentally observable consequences, shedding new light into the physics of these fascinating materials.
A subword neural tree network approach to text-dependent speaker verification

A new algorithm for text-dependent speaker verification is presented. The algorithm uses a set of concatenated neural tree networks (NTNs) trained with subword units for speaker verification. The conventional NTN has been found to provide good performance in text-independent tasks. In the new approach, two types of subword unit are investigated, phone-like units (PLUs) and HMM state-based units (HSU's). The training of the models includes several steps. First, the predetermined password in the training data is segmented into subword units using a hidden Markov model (HMM) based segmentation method. Second, an NTN is trained for each subword unit. The new structure integrates the discriminatory ability of the NTN with the temporal models of the HMM. This new algorithm was evaluated by experiments on a TI isolated-word database, and YOHO database. An improvement of performance was observed over the performance obtained using a conventional HMM.
Behavioral modification of estuarine fish exposed to sulfur dioxide

This study was designed to determine the avoidance responses of juvenile striped bass (Morone saxatilis) and Atlantic menhaden (Brevoortia tyrannus) exposed to sulfur dioxide (sulfite) at acclimation temperatures of 15, 20, 25, and 30 degrees C. Predictive models were developed and compared for each species at each acclimation temperature. Striped bass avoided 2.2, 2.3, 3.0, and 3.5 mg sulfite/l at 15, 20, 25, and 30 degrees C, respectively. Atlantic menhaden avoided 3.2, 3.6, 2.9, and 3.0 mg sulfite/l at acclimation temperatures of 15, 20, 25, and 30 degrees C, respectively. Acclimation temperature was an important factor influencing the avoidance response of each species exposed to sulfur dioxide. Striped bass avoided lower concentrations of sulfite than Atlantic menhaden at 15 and 20 degrees C. Both species avoided approximately the same concentration of sulfite at 25 degrees C. Atlantic menhaden avoided lower concentrations of sulfur dioxide than striped bass at 30 degrees C.
Investigation of some finite-difference techniques for solving the boundary layer equations☆

Abstract The Levy-Lees form of the laminar boundary layer equations is solved with several second-order accurate finite-difference schemes. For incompressible flow the methods investigated include three forms of the Crank-Nicolson scheme, four variations of the Keller box scheme and a modified box scheme. The number of iterations required at each step along the surface to obtain a second-order accurate scheme is studied. The accuracy of the schemes with various step-sizes is determined for the boundary layer flow with a linearly retarded edge velocity. In addition, one form of the Crank-Nicolson scheme is extended to compressible flows and its accuracy and behavior are also examined for the linearly retarded flow case. The results of this investigation show that the coupled continuity-momentum form of the Crank-Nicolson scheme is second-order with one iteration at each step and requires less time than the Keller box scheme.
Solar wind structure at large heliocentric distances: An interpretation of Pioneer 10 observations

Examination of hourly values of the solar wind speed observed by the Pioneer 10 spacecraft beyond a heliocentric distance of 4 AU reveals (1) a prevalent 'sawtoothlike' speed-time profile, most speed fluctuations displaying a rapid rise and a much slower decline, and (2) the nearly universal appearance of abrupt (on the 1-hour time resolution of these data) changes in the speed on the rising portions of the speed fluctuations. These previously unreported characteristics, as well as the rate of decay of stream amplitudes derived earlier by Collard and Wolfe, are in general agreement with the predictions of stream propagation models that neglect any conversion of kinetic energy to thermal energy outside of shock fronts. Thus the Pioneer 10 observations give the first confirmation of the general concept of solar wind stream evolution employed in these models, i.e., that solar wind speed inhomogeneities appear to steepen to form shock waves and that the 'wave amplitudes' decay slowly as the shock waves propagate outward from the sun.
Posterior, predictive, and utility-based approaches to testing the arbitrage pricing theory

Abstract To provide a framework for judging the economic significance of departures from the arbitrage pricing theory, we adopt a utility-based metric based on optimal portfolio choices. This measure is examined using both predictive and posterior analysis. Our predictive analysis shows very large and economically significant departures from the model restrictions. However, the high level of parameter uncertainty suggests that we cannot conclusively either affirm or reject the APT. Our conclusions differ markedly from other studies which employ traditional significance-testing procedures and, in many instances, fail to reject the APT restrictions.
Dynamic IR scene projection using the Hughes liquid crystal light valve

This paper reviews recent development and application of the infrared version of the liquid crystal light valve (LCLV). We describe delivered IR image projectors for advanced end-to- end laboratory testing of IR seeker and sensor systems. System performance characteristics are given. A newly developed version of the device has much higher contrast with low IR background image capability.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Variation in plumage microbiota depends on season and migration.

Migratory birds can be efficient dispersers of pathogens, yet we know little about the effect of migration and season on the microbial community in avian plumage. This is the first study to describe and compare the microbial plumage community of adult and juvenile migratory birds during the annual cycle and compare the plumage community of migrants to that of resident birds at both neotropical and nearctic locations. We used length heterogeneity PCR (16S rRNA) to describe the microbial assemblage sampled from the plumage of 66 birds in two age classes and from 16 soil samples. Resident birds differed significantly in plumage microbial community composition from migrants (R ≥ 0.238, P < 0.01). Nearctic resident birds had higher plumage microbial diversity than nearctic migrants (R = 0.402, P < 0.01). Plumage microbial composition differed significantly between fall premigratory and either breeding (R ≥ 0.161, P < 0.05) or nonbreeding stages (R = 0.267, P < 0.01). Six bacterial operational taxonomic units contributed most to the dissimilarities found in this assay. Soil microbial community composition was significantly different from all samples of plumage microbial communities (R ≥ 0.700, P < 0.01). The plumage microbial community varies in relation to migration strategy and stage of the annual cycle. We suggest that plumage microbial acquisition begins in the first year at natal breeding locations and reaches equilibrium at the neotropical wintering sites. These data lead us to conclude that migration and season play an important role in the dynamics of the microbial community in avian plumage and may reflect patterns of pathogen dispersal by birds.
Maritime zones in the Southern Ocean: problems concerning the correspondence of natural and legal maritime zones

Abstract A significant body of international law drafted simultaneously but separately for the Antarctic Treaty system (ATS) and the law of the sea affects the Southern Ocean. Although this ocean is characterized by several distinct geophysical zones, it is not easy to secure a consensus regarding an appropriate northern boundary. The law of the sea defines a series of maritime jurisdictional zones, whose application to Antarctica is hindered by the region's continuing uncertain legal status. Nevertheless, the Antarctic relevance of the law of the sea raises a number of interesting questions, while highlighting the fact that legal zones in Antarctica have often developed without taking full account of geographical criteria. An understanding of geographical and other factors facilitates an improved understanding of the need for new legal approaches designed to regulate Antarctic activities in a more equitable and effective manner.
Rediscovering Anthropology: An Internship with the National Park Service

My initial experience with applied anthropology began in cyber-space. In the fall of 1994, I was considering a leave from my doctoral program in cultural anthropology at Harvard University and was searching for employment in which I could test the practicality of my anthropological skills. My most marketable professional experience at that time was several months involvement in implementing the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) at Harvard's Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology. In response to an inquiry I posted on an anthropology listserve, Rebecca Joseph, an ethnographer with the National Park Service (NPS), contacted me about assisting her for a year in an internship capacity. At the time, she was responsible for overseeing NAGPRA implementation in the NPS New England Cluster in addition to her regular duties as manager of the regional Applied Ethnography Program. The impetus for the position was a pending NAGPRA compliance deadline (November 1995) that required inv...
Standards of measurements in myasthenia gravis.

Abstract: In 1997, the Medical Scientific Advisory Board of the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America formed a Task Force to develop classification and outcome measures for myasthenia gravis (MG). The goal of the Task Force was to achieve uniformity in recording and reporting clinical trials and outcomes research. The Task Force met frequently over a three-year period, obtained input from national and international experts, and produced a consensus document on recommendations for MG clinical research standards. In this article, the essential elements of the Task Force's recommendations will be summarized. In addition, several other MG measurement tools that are in various stages of development are mentioned.
Orthodontics and temporomandibular joint internal derangement

The purpose of this investigation is to compare the prevalence of internal derangement of the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) in asymptomatic volunteers versus symptomatic subjects using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), with a detailed comparison to clinical signs and symptoms and with attention to a prior history of orthodontic treatment. Bilateral MRI scans were obtained of the TMJs in 76 asymptomatic volunteers and 102 symptomatic patients. A comparison was made to the clinical signs and symptoms, a history of orthodontic treatment, and to the MR findings. The MRI scans were reviewed using established criteria for disk displacement and the reviewers were blinded as to the clinical information. Our results show a prevalence of disk displacement in 25 of 76 (33%) volunteers and 79 of 102 (77%) patients with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001). No statistical link was noted between a history of prior orthodontic treatment and internal derangement of the TMJ.
Hydrogen as a Cooling Medium for Electrical Machinery

This paper presents the results of a large amount of theoretical study and a large number of tests to determine the advantages of hydrogen as a cooling medium in electrical machiney. The conclusions fall into two classes, some definite and some speculative. In the former class are: 1. For the same operating temperature a steam turbine-driven generator of a given size will have a capacity at least 30 per cent greater when operated in hydrogen than when operated in air. 2. The efficiency will be 1 per cent or more higher. 3. There will be no danger of fire destroying the insulation, 4. The detrimental effects of corona if present will be greatly reduced. 5. The machine may be protected by suitable devices from the formation of an explosive mixture of hydrogen and air. 6. The frame can be made sufficiently strong to resist an explosion. This is additional security in case of failure of the protective devices or negligence in operation. 7. The cooler for removing the heat from the hydrogen may be considerably smaller than a cooler for removing heat from air. In the speculative class are: 1. A hydrogen pressure of several atmospheres will result in still greater possibilities provided a sufficiently gas tight enclosure can be developed. 2. The insulation may be made thinner and still have as long a life as the present insulations operated in air.
Partially selective search of memory for letters and digits

Three experiments failed to provide evidence that subjects could search just the digits, or just the letters, of a mixed list of digits and letters in deciding whether a probe item was a member of the list. Providing a precue as to the category of the probe shortly before the presentation of the probe decreased the time needed to encode it, but did not change the memory search process. Repeating the category of the probe from one trial to the next, however, did change the pattern of memory search. A “partially selective search” model was proposed which claimed that a mixed list was stored as two categorized sublists, and that a self-terminating search of the sublists could occur in which the first sublist searched was the one which had been probed on the previous trial.
Social user generated content's effect on creativity in educational games

BeadLoom Game (BLG) is an educational puzzle game developed by adding game elements to a free-play educational tool called the Virtual Bead Loom (VBL). To motivate students who prefer the creative freedom of VBL, we added Custom Puzzle mode to BLG so players can create, share, and rate user-generated puzzles. We compare VBL and BLG Custom Puzzles to show that this mode increases the creativity and complexity of student work.
Modelling the swelling assay for aquaporin expression

The standard method of assaying the water transporting capability of a putative aquaporin-like entity is to express that entity in a cell of normally low water permeability and to measure the enhancement of swelling when the cell is subjected to hypo-osmotic shock. Because of the heterogeneous nature of cytoplasm, the interplay of advection and diffusion, and the coupling of internal and external media via a semipermeable elastic membrane, even simplified mathematical models can be difficult to resolve. This class of diffusion problem seems to have been but little studied. In this paper, the cell and its surround are at first modelled as perfectly-mixed phases separated by an ideal semipermeable membrane with vanishingly small elastic modulus; and the time course of swelling is evaluated analytically. This time course was found to be non-exponential, but such unexpected behavior should not seriously affect the traditional interpretation of experimental results because its short time limit is linear as in the traditional model; and normally only short time data are available. Next, the simplifications of diffusive equilibrium and of vanishing elastic modulus are examined. It is shown that diffusive equilibrium will be true only when diffusive movement of osmolyte is rather faster than the swelling and that this will probably not be the case for many assays. On the other hand, it should often be possible to neglect the elastic modulus. Finally, a more comprehensive model is formulated for a spherical cell in a hypotonic medium and the swelling behavior described in terms as a moving boundary problem (This type of moving boundary problem is often called a Stefan problem [ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stefan_problem ]) in which two phases containing diffusive osmolyte are separated by a weakly-elastic ideally-semipermeable membrane, the water flux across which is linear in the osmolality difference across it. This type of behavior was evaluated numerically by finite-difference time-domain techniques and found to be qualitatively similar to that of the perfect-mixing simplification.
Relationships between yeast Rad27 and Apn1 in response to apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) sites in DNA

Yeast Rad27 is a 5'-->3' exonuclease and a flap endo-nuclease. Apn1 is the major apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) endonuclease in yeast. The rad27 deletion mutants are highly sensitive to methylmethane sulfonate (MMS). By examining the role of Rad27 in different modes of DNA excision repair, we wish to understand why the cytotoxic effect of MMS is dramatically enhanced in the absence of Rad27. Base excision repair (BER) of uracil-containing DNA was deficient in rad27 mutant extracts in that (i) the Apn1 activity was reduced, and (ii) after DNA incision by Apn1, hydrolysis of 1-5 nucleotides 3' to the baseless sugar phosphate was deficient. Thus, some AP sites may lead to unprocessed DNA strand breaks in rad27 mutant cells. The severe MMS sensitivity of rad27 mutants is not caused by a reduction of the Apn1 activity. Surprisingly, we found that Apn1 endonuclease sensitizes rad27 mutant cells to MMS. Deleting the APN1 gene largely restored the resistance of rad27 mutants to MMS. These results suggest that unprocessed DNA strand breaks at AP sites are mainly responsible for the MMS sensitivity of rad27 mutants. In contrast, nucleotide excision repair and BER of oxidative damage were not affected in rad27 mutant extracts, indicating that Rad27 is specifically required for BER of AP sites in DNA.
Feeding Methods and Grouping Systems

Abstract Studies of taste behavior indicate that precise nutrient allocation is never achieved by lactating dairy cows offered concentrates according to individual energy requirements and forages free-choice in conventional housing systems. Concentrate feeding via the milking parlor reduces precision of nutrient allocation even further. Studies of social and feeding behavior of cows in loose housing suggest that it is unnecessary to provide one free-stall per cow or bunk space for all cows to eat simultaneously if a complete ration is continuously available. The advantages of the complete ration system far outweigh the disadvantages. More attention should be given to social and taste behavior of cows as feeding and housing systems are designed.
Agrobacterium‐Mediated Transformation of Creeping Bentgrass Using GFP as a Reporter Gene

Creeping bentgrass (Agrostis palustris Huds.) is a cool season grass widely used on putting greens in golf courses. Transformation of creeping bentgrass has been conducted using microprojectile bombardment and protoplast electroporation. The objective of our study is to develop an alternative and more efficient approach in transforming the grass using Agrobacterium (strain EHA 101). This technique was effective in transforming 40-day old calli derived from mature seeds cultured on MS medium supplemented with 2,4-D, kinetin, and sucrose. Dozens of transgenic plants have been produced from two independent transformed calli. Presence of functional green fluorescence protein (GFP) was detected in leaves, stems, and roots of transgenic seedlings. Four putative transgenic plants and two control plants were randomly chosen and analyzed by Southern blot analysis. Bands corresponding to the GFP gene were clearly shown in transgenic plants. These results indicated that Agrobacterium transformation can successfully be applied to creeping bentgrass.
Half-collision dynamics in the penning ionization of HBr

Abstract The ionization of HBr by metastable helium and neon to give HBr + (A 2 Σ + ) was studied in crossed molecular beams, by measuring the A 2 Σ + → X 2 H 32,1/2 emission spectrum. Vibrational distributions of HBr + (A) were calculated from the spectrum, and compared with those determined by Penning ionization electron spectroscopy. With Ne* + HBr the final-state interaction [NeHBr + (A) — Ne + HBr + (A)] results in vibrational relaxation of HBr + (A), which is accompanied by rotational excitation, indicating that formation of HBr + (A) occurs predominantly by a close-range repulsive interaction with Ne* at the hydrogen end of the molecule.
Flow property measurement using the Jenike cell for wheat flour at various moisture contents and consolidation times

Abstract The flow properties, i.e. cohesion and slope of the yield locus, of wheat flour at three different moisture contents (11.8%, 14.7% and 16.4%, dry basis) were measured using the Jenike shear tester with no time consolidation, i.e. instantaneous yield loci, over a range of loading conditions. The values of cohesion obtained for the three moisture contents were not significantly (P
Rethinking Blacula: Ideological Critique at the Intersection of Genres

Abstract This article considers Blacula (1972) as a radical self-reflexive critique of blaxploitation films. Blacula signifies on early 1970s blaxploitation and horror genres, reverses conventional tropes of monstrosity, and presents a romantic monster that challenges white patriarchal heteronormative authority while suggesting commercial blaxploitation films are complicit with power structures.
6α‐methylprednisolone and 6α‐methylprednisone plasma protein binding in humans and rabbits

The binding of 6α-methylprednisolone and 6α-methylprednisone to proteins of rabbit and human plasma was studied in vitro by equilibrium dialysis. Steroid binding was determined using radiolabeled compounds and HPLC analysis methods. Both methods produced equivalent results. Plasma protein binding of 6α-methylprednisolone and 6α-methylprednisone averaged 75–82% and was independent of steroid concentration, suggestive of low affinity, nonspecific protein binding. A positive linear correlation of the log octanol-water partition coefficient with the nonspecific binding affinities of a homologous series of steroids, including 6α-methylprednisolone and 6α-methylprednisone, was demonstrated. This correlation suggests that hydrophobic binding is a major determinant of nonspecific steroid-protein interactions.
What is the required energy deficit per unit weight loss

One of the most pervasive weight loss rules is that a cumulative energy deficit of 3500 kcal is required per pound of body weight loss, or equivalently 32.2 MJ kg(-1). Under what conditions is it appropriate to use this rule of thumb and what are the factors that determine the cumulative energy deficit required per unit weight loss? Here, I examine this question using a modification of the classic Forbes equation that predicts the composition of weight loss as a function of the initial body fat and magnitude of weight loss. The resulting model predicts that a larger cumulative energy deficit is required per unit weight loss for people with greater initial body fat-a prediction supported by published weight loss data from obese and lean subjects. This may also explain why men can lose more weight than women for a given energy deficit since women typically have more body fat than men of similar body weight. Furthermore, additional weight loss is predicted to be associated with a lower average cumulative energy deficit since a greater proportion of the weight loss is predicted to result from loss of lean body mass, which has a relatively low energy density in comparison with body fat. The rule of thumb approximately matches the predicted energy density of lost weight in obese subjects with an initial body fat above 30 kg but overestimates the cumulative energy deficit required per unit weight loss for people with lower initial body fat. International Journal of Obesity (2008) 32, 573-576; doi:10.1038/sj.ijo.0803720; published online 11 September 2007.
REDUNDANCY MEASURES FOR DESIGN AND EVALUATION OF STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS

Despite the fact that the need for structural redundancy has already been recognised by several standard specifications, no criteria pertaining to quantify redundancy in design and evaluation of structural systems are explicitly given within these specifications. The purpose of this paper is to discuss both deterministic and probabilistic redundancy measures for design and evaluation of structural systems. A comparison of some of the proposed redundancy measures is presented via numerical examples and observations pertaining to the ranges of their applicability are made.
Comparative resistance to three species of Callosobruchus in a strain of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)

Abstract Chickpea is an important source of protein in several countries. In storage, it is infested by Callosobruchus analis, C. maculatus and C. chinensis . A reportedly resistant strain of the seed was tested with 14 other common varieties. Two methods, selective preference and no choice, were used. The strain named G109-1 was significantly better than other varities in being least preferred for egg laying by these bruchids. G109-1 has a rough seedcoat which is almost spiny. This spiny character, absent in susceptible varieties, appears to act as a deterent to oviposition.
Groups Having Elements Conjugate to Their Squares and Connections with Dynamical Systems

In recent years, dynamical systems which are conjugate to their squares have been studied in ergodic theory. In this paper we study the consequences of groups having elements which are conjugate to their squares and consider examples arising from topological dynamics and more general dynamical systems
Outcome of endoscopic carpal tunnel release in patients with chronic nonhand pain compared with those without chronic pain.

Purpose This prospective observational study compared the outcomes of single-port endoscopic carpal tunnel release in patients taking narcotic pain medication chronically for back, neck, leg, or other bodily pain for more than 3 months, with patients not taking chronic narcotic pain medication (control group). Methods Patients undergoing endoscopic carpal tunnel release completed the Levine-Katz carpal tunnel questionnaire (primary outcome) and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire preoperatively, at 2, 4, 6, and 12 weeks, and at 1 year after surgery. We measured subjective satisfaction with surgery at each postoperative time point as well. Results There were 14 patients in the chronic narcotic pain group and 68 in the control group. Both groups showed significant improvement in the Levine-Katz symptom and functional scores and in the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score (compared with preoperative) at nearly all times. The control group showed better scores at the early time points, but by 6 weeks, there was no difference between groups. Patient satisfaction was excellent in both groups. Conclusions Patients who had carpal tunnel syndrome and who were receiving narcotic pain medication chronically for nonhand pain benefited from endoscopic carpal tunnel release. These patients experienced a longer recovery period but ultimately achieved the same outcomes as patients without chronic pain, as measured by the Levine-Katz scores and the DASH score. Type of study/level of evidence Prognostic I.
In vitro thermosensitivity of the midline thalamus

This study compared the thermosensitivity and spontaneous activity of thatamic midline neurons with those of neurons in areas widely regarded to be involved in thermoregulation (preoptic/anterior hypothalamus and posterior hypothalamus). In vitro single unit recordings were made from neurons within the thalamic midline nuclei, the preoptic/anterior hypothalamus and posterior hypothalamus prior to and during a temperature change 3-7 C above and below 37 C. There were no significant differences in the degree of thermosensitivity or the proportion of thermosensitive neurons in the three areas. In each area examined, the thermosensitive neurons had a spontaneous activity which was significantly greater than that of the temperature-insensitive neurons. The results suggest that structures of the midline thalamus may play a role similar to that of the preoptic/anterior hypothalamus and posterior hypothalamus in the processing of temperature related information.
Perceived Sex Differences in Managerially Relevant Characteristics.

A national sample of 884 male managers completed a survey of managerially relevant perceived sex differences. Females were rated lower on the following scales: (a) aptitudes, skills, and knowledge; (b) motivation and job interest; (c) temperament; and (d) work habits and attitudes. Moreover, lower ratings of women were prevalent among males in a variety of jobs, organizations, and industries.
Central effects of imipramine-like anti-depressants in relation to their peripheral anticholinergic activity

Summary The peripheral anticholinergic activity of imipramine, amitriptyline and their demethylated derivatives has been measured. The activity of the drugs in elevating the EEG arousal threshold in cat encephale isole preparations and in conscious cats with chronically implanted cortical electrodes has also been examined. All the drugs produced a dissociation between EEG and behavioural arousal thresholds. The pattern of the dissociation resembled that produced by hyoscine, rather than that produced by atropine, in that there was a marked sedative element in the actions of the drugs. The demethylated analogues, desmethylimipramine and nortriptyline were less potent than the parent compounds in peripheral anticholinergic activity and in elevating the EEG arousal threshold. As clinical antidepressants the demethylated analogues are no less active than the parent compounds. It is concluded that clinical antidepressant activity is not primarily associated with the anticholinergic activity of these compounds although this activity may be connected in some way with the qualitative differences between these and other types of antidepressant drugs.
The synthesis of an isobutylene-α-methylstyrene block copolymer with olefinic head-group: (CH 3 ) 2 C=CHCH 2 -PIB- b -PαMeSt

The title head-functionalized block copolymer was synthesized by first preparing a polyisobutylene carrying a (CH3)2C=CH2-head-group and -Cl end-group, and subsequently starting the block copolymerization of α-methylstyrene from the -Cl terminus.
USING SINGLE CONCEPT CARDS AND SENTENCES FOR AFFECTIVE AND EFFECTIVE READING

In some schools every primary and elementary class has a child who is virtually a nonreader. The literature and research offer varied causes: low IQ, poor family background, poor instruction, genetic anomalies, low levels of pupil persistence, visual or auditory problems, social/emotional difficulties, and so on. In many of these cases nonreaders can acquire basic reading competence if certain conditions exist:
The Role of Supervisory Referral in Employee Assistance Programs

Abstract A growing number of organizations offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to help employees with their personal problems. Many organizations rely on their supervisors to help identify and refer troubled employees to the EAP for assistance, yet very little conclusive evidence exists regarding the factors that influence whether or not supervisors identify and intervene with troubled employees. A previous review of the literature (Nord & Littrell, 1989) found that the following variables were consistently related to referral: (a) degree of management support for the EAP, (b) gender of supervisor, (c) gender of subordinate, (d) existence of a supervisor network, (e) occupational category of the employees supervised, (f) social distance between supervisor and troubled employee, (g) supervisors' attitude toward their role in referral, and (h) supervisor knowledge of the EAP. However, results of some of the studies reviewed for the current paper were inconsistent with Nord and Littrell's (1989) findin...
Sonographic Representation of Bifid Median Nerve and Persistent Median Artery

Bifid median nerve and persistent median arteries are natural anatomic variants that exist in a small percentage of the population. This case describes a young woman who was referred for electrodiagnostic (EDX) testing of her right upper extremity because of a one-year history of numbness, tingling, and discomfort in her right upper extremity consistent with carpal tunnel syndrome. Careful sonographic scanning (gray scale and power Doppler) and dynamic investigation revealed a bifid median nerve and associated persistent median artery (PMA). The awareness of a bifid median nerve and PMA is important when evaluating patients sonographically for diagnosis of upper extremity pathology, including enlargement due to carpal tunnel syndrome. Furthermore, as musculoskeletal sonography increases in clinical practice, it is important to raise awareness of this dual anatomic variant to ensure that appropriate evaluation and treatment are provided. The sonographic presentation of anatomic variations in this case alon...