cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Only large reductions in concentrations of natriuretic peptides (BNP and NT-proBNP) are associated with improved outcome in ambulatory patients with chronic heart failure

Background: Concentrations of B-type natriuretic peptides (BNPs), including N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), can be used to estimate prognosis in chronic heart failure. Large biologic variability, however, limits the usefulness of serial measurements in individual patients. As a result, the magnitude of change in peptide concentrations that is clinically meaningful remains to be established. Methods: We studied 172 New York Heart Association class III–IV outpatients. Primary endpoints were death/transplantation or heart failure hospitalization. The magnitude of peptide changes was categorized as no change ( 80% increase or decrease. Changes were also assessed using cutpoints (500 ng/L for BNP and 1000 ng/L for NT-proBNP). Results: Fifty-two patients died or received transplants during the course of the study. Risk reduction for heart failure hospitalization was demonstrated only for BNP decreases of >80% from enrollment [hazard ratio (HR) 0.318, P = 0.0315]. BNP increases from less than to more than the prespecified cutpoint of 500 ng/L were associated with increased mortality risk (HR 2.101, P = 0.0069), whereas decreases from more than to less than the cutpoint did not reduce risk. NT-proBNP decreases from more than to less than the cutpoint of 1000 ng/L were associated with reduced risk of death/transplantation (HR 0.119, P = 0.0354). Conclusions: BNP increases from less than to more than the cutpoint were associated with increased risk of events, whereas further increases did not add to risk. In contrast, only substantial natriuretic peptide decreases (>80%) reduced risk. These data suggest that only robust decreases in natriuretic peptide concentrations should be targeted to reduce mortality and heart failure-related hospitalizations.
Hexalithiobenzene: a D6h equilibrium geometry with six lithium atoms in bridging positions

Abstract The synthesis of hexalithiobenzene in 53% yield from hexachlorobenzene has recently been reported by Baran and Lagow. Here, the nature of the discrete C6Li6 molecule has been investigated using ab initio molecular quantum-mechanical methods. A basis set approaching triplet-zeta-plus-polarization (TZP) quality was used in conjunction with the self-consistent-field (SCF) method. The lowest-energy molecular structure considered involves a benzene-like inner hexagon of carbon atoms surrounded by six Li atoms in bridging positions.
Relational communication in computer-mediated interaction

This study involved an experiment of the effects of time and communication channel--computer conferencing versus face-to-face meetings--on impression development, message personalization, and relational communication in groups. Prior research on the relational aspects of computer-mediated communication has suggested strong depersonalizing effects of the medium due to the absence of nonverbal cues. Past research is criticized for failing to incorporate temporal and developmental perspectives on information processing and relational development. In this study data were collected from, and observations made of 96 subjects assigned to computer conferencing or traditional zero-history groups of three, who completed three tasks over several weeks' time. Results showed that computer-mediated groups increased in several relational dimensions to more positive levels, and that these subsequent levels approximated those of face-to-face groups. Boundaries on the predominant theories of computer-mediated communication are recommended, and future research is suggested.
Factors associated with landowner involvement in forest conservation programs in the U.S.: Implications for policy design and outreach

Abstract One-third of the forestland in the U.S. is owned by 10.4 million family forest owners. Their collective decisions have a great impact on the sustainability of forest landscape across the country. Public policies and programs for encouraging landowners to properly manage their land include cost-share, forest certification, and conservation easements. However, to date, less than 6% of the family forest owners have participated in a cost-share program, less than 1% have certified their land, and less than 2% have an easement. By analyzing data from USDA Forest Service's National Woodland Owner Survey, we examined the characteristics of family forest owners who had participated in these programs and identified strategies to capitalize on these landowner characteristics to improve current programs and attract a wider range of participants. We found that family forest owners with larger land holdings were more likely to participate in all three types of programs. Obtaining forest management information or advice was important for program participation; however, the effects differed depending on the types of programs and the sources of information. Income was not significant in predicting participation in cost-share programs, implying family forest owners from lower-income strata were not more likely to use cost-share program. The results also suggest the importance of targeting the right audience when promoting forest certification programs, namely those who are participants of cost-share programs, own forestland for reasons other than farming or ranching, and plan to harvest sawlogs or pulpwood in the future. Age was not significant in any of the empirical models. This result is particularly intriguing in the context of conservation easement, considering recent discussions about the high cost of dying unprepared and the potential for promoting conservation easement as part of estate planning among older family forest owners. Finally, few variables were significant in the model predicting landowner decision about donating or selling an easement, suggesting the easement decision is very different from cost-share and forest certification decisions and further efforts are needed to understand the dynamics of this increasingly popular conservation policy tool. In summary, this study provides a better understanding of the relationship between program participation and the demographics, attitudes and behaviors of family forest owners. This understanding contributes to the development of outreach strategies for improving landowner interest in forest conservation programs.
Stochastic modelling of gradient copolymer chemical composition distribution and sequence length distribution

Stochastic mechanistic models for gradient copolymerisation systems were developed based on a kinetic Monte Carlo algorithm. Due to the discrete nature of the simulations, chains were tracked as binary strings allowing for the storage of the complete sequence of each polymer chain, allowing for an unprecedented level of detail. Models were developed that simulated styrene/4-acetoxystyrene semi-batch gradient copolymer syntheses, and explicit sequence information was determined using simulation results. The chemical composition distribution was mapped for the copolymers, which is capable of providing a visual description of both the size and overall composition distributions of the copolymer and a qualitative description of the chain architecture. This methodology was expanded to track the explicit sequences of each chain that was used to determine the number and weight fraction sequence length distributions. Simulation results show that tail end compositional tapering was never fully achieved. Case studie...
The diffusion of hydrogen in palladium-boron solid solutions

Abstract An electrolytic technique employing a double cell system has been used to measure the diffusivity D of hydrogen in PdBH solutions containing up to 0.12 atom fraction B in the temperature range 273–350 K. The presence of B-atoms cause the H-diffusivity to decrease by about a factor of 2 at the maximum B-content studied. The individual Arrhenius plots of ln D vs (1/ T ) are all linear and the corresponding apparent activation energies for H-diffusion decrease by ∼4 kJ/mol in the B-content range studied. The results have been interpreted in terms of a model based upon rate theory and a statistical mechanical treatment of the thermodynamic properties of this system.
Broken-hearted women: the complex relationship between depression and cardiovascular disease.

The importance of mind–body health relationships has been recognized for decades, but only recently has the wider medical and cardiovascular community become engaged in understanding and addressing the complex, bidirectional risk relationship between cardiovascular disease (CVD) and depression. Furthermore, it has become increasingly clear that there are incompletely understood sex differences in incidence and outcomes for both conditions that should guide treatment and future research efforts. This review will explore the role of depression in women as a risk factor for incident CVD, its impact on women already suffering from CVD, proposed psychobiologic mechanisms and links, and the implications of sex differences on diagnosis and treatment.
Preliminary study on the grouping of taro [Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott] by isoelectricfocusing

Abstract Isoelectricfocusing (IEF) of the prolamin and albumin fractions from nine taro cultivars from American Samoa and Hawaii was conducted. Based on the distribution of the major prolamin and albumin bands and the uniqueness of some of these bands, the nine cultivars were categorized into three groups. Group I consisted of Niu'e, Manu'a, and Lehua cultivars, Group II, Matagi Fanua, Pula Sama Sama, Samoa, Apii and an unknown (yellow) cultivar, and Group III, Palagi cultivar.
Effects of Particle Surface Charge, Species, Concentration, and Dispersion Method on the Thermal Conductivity of Nanofluids:

The purpose of this experimental study is to evaluate the effects of particle species, surface charge, concentration, preparation technique, and base fluid on thermal transport capability of nanopa...
Nanoindentation of polydimethylsiloxane elastomers: Effect of crosslinking, work of adhesion, and fluid environment on elastic modulus

With the potential to map mechanical properties of heterogeneous materials on a micrometer scale, there is growing interest in nanoindentation as a materials characterization technique. However, nanoindentation has been developed primarily for characterization of hard, elasto-plastic materials, and the technique has not been validated for very soft materials with moduli less than 5 MPa. The current study attempted to use nanoindentation to characterize the elastic moduli of soft, elastomeric polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) samples (with different degrees of crosslinking) and determine the effects of adhesion on these measurements using adhesion contact mechanics models. Results indicate that nanoindentation was able to differentiate between elastic moduli on the order of hundreds of kilo-Pascals. Moreover, calculations using the classical Hertz contact model for dry and aqueous environment gave higher elastic modulus values when compared to those obtained from unconfined compression testing. These data seem to suggest that consideration of the adhesion energy at the tip-sample interface is a significantly important parameter and needs to be taken into account for consistent elastic modulus determination of soft materials by nanoindentation.
Deciphering Dance in Reality Television: The Good, the Questionable, and the Unconscionable

This editorial discusses the potential positive and negative issues related to reality-TV dance shows. It describes what we can learn from them, how they might influence our fields, and what teachers need to be aware of that could be potentially harmful.
Feminist theory, habitus, and social class: Disrupting notions of classlessness

Abstract In order to draw out the complexities of social class positionings, this article draws on the case study of Christine, a woman who grew up working-class but came to see herself as “classless.” Bourdieu's notions of habitus and field are utilised in an attempt to analyse sociologically the complex emotional and psychological processes underpinning social class practices within the sphere of parental involvement in education. “Classlessness” no less than identification as middle or working-class can be understood in terms of the shifting, uneasy ways in which class is lived in everyday contemporary Britain.
Influences of nitrogen treatments and irrigation methods on soil chemical properties

Abstract Changes in soil chemical properties were investigated in conjunction with an ongoing study of fertility and irrigation relationships of cotton. Four irrigation methods and five nitrogen fertilization rates were the primary focus of the study. The four irrigation regimes studied were: high frequency center pivot, low frequency center pivot, furrow irrigated, and unirrigated. Nitrogen rates were 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 lb N/A. Soil samples were collected from each plot in 6‐in‐ increments to a depth of 24 in. in 1982 and again in 1986 after four years of continuous cotton production. The soil samples were analyzed for pH, organic matter (OM), P, K, electrical conductivity (EC), and NO3 ‐‐N. All background soil characteristics were found to vary with depth with the exception of NO3 ‐‐N. The follow‐up sampling and testing in 1986 showed significant differences in soil properties as a function of irrigation, N‐fertilization, depth, and their interactions. Nitrates were accumulated in the 18 to 24‐in. d...
Society in the postmodern era

Technology in the postmodern era has expedited and revolutionized the business world while also altering patterns of social interaction. Although such sophisticated systems have made a positive impact on the United States, they have also negatively affected the livelihood of Americans inside and outside of the workplace.
Rapid corneal adrenochrome deposition from topical ibopamine in the setting of infectious keratitis.

Rapid corneal adrenochrome deposition from topical ibopamine in the setting of infectious keratitis
Effect of effort and deadlines on consumer product returns

Abstract While extant research has examined return policies as a combination of time and effort, we investigate both the independent and interactive impacts of time and effort on consumer decisions to return or retain products. We find that decreasing return deadlines can have the counterintuitive effect of increasing return rates under some conditions. Using construal level theory, we propose that perceived effort (both physical and cognitive) mediates the effect of return policy on return rates leading to suppressed returns. Further, when deadlines are framed as durations between store visits, overall product returns are exacerbated except when perceived effort is high.
Comparison of Sodium Iodide, Cesium Iodide, and Bismuth Germanate Scintillation Detectors for Borehole Gamma-Ray Logging

NaI(Tl), CsI(Na), and Bi4Ge3O12 detectors were installed in borehole probes and used to collect gamma-ray data at the U.S. Department of Energy's calibration facility at Grand Junction, Colorado. Spectral data were collected with all three detectors to determine their ability to assay 40K, 214Bi (a decay product of uranium) and 208Tl (a decay product of thorium). Gross count data were also obtained with small NaI(Tl) and Bi4Ge3O12 detectors. Both CsI(Na) and Bi4Ge3O12M/(bismuth germanate abbreviated "BGO") offer enhanced gamma-ray counting efficiency over that provided by NaI(Tl) which is the most common scintillator used in uranium exploration. Tests in calibration boreholes showed that CsI(Na) averaged 45 percent higher spectral counting efficiency than did the same size NaI(Tl) detector. BGO gave an average spectral counting efficiency 310 percent higher than did NaI(Tl). In addition, both BGO and CsI(Na) displayed smaller stripping ratios than did NaI(Tl) due to increased photopeak efficiencies. Consequently CsI(Na) and BGO provided precisions in spectral assays which were better by 20 percent and 55 percent, respectively, than the precisions obtained from NaI(Tl) detectors of the same size with the same counting times. For gross count applications BGO produced a count rate 50 percent greater than did the same size NaI(Tl) detector in an unfiltered gamma-ray probe. When a graded filter was placed around the detectors to reduce the number of low energy gamma rays detected, the count rate obtained from BGO was 90 percent greater than from Nal(Tl).
An Efficient Application of Polynomial Chaos Expansion for the Dynamic Analysis of Multibody Systems With Uncertainty

In this paper the mathematical framework of an advanced algorithm is presented to efficiently form and solve the equations of motion of a multibody system involving uncertainty in the system parameters and/or the excitations. The uncertainty is introduced to the system through the application of the polynomial chaos expansion. In this scheme, states of the system, nondeterministic parameters, and the constraint loads are expanded using modal values as well as orthogonal basis functions. Computational complexity of the application of traditional methods to solve the stochastic equations of motion of a multibody system drastically grows as a cubic function of the number of the states of the system, uncertain parameters and the maximum degree of the polynomial chosen for the basis function. The presented method forms the equation of motion of the system without forming the entire mass and Jacobian matrices. In this strategy, the stochastic governing equations of motion of each individual body as well as the one associated with the kinematic constraint at the connecting joint are developed in terms of the basis functions and modal coordinates. Then sweeping the system in two passes assembly and disassembly, one can form and solve the stochastic equations of motion. In the assembly pass the non-deterministic equations of motion of the assemblies are obtained. In the disassembly process, these equations are then recursively solved for the modal values of the spatial accelerations and the constraints loads. In the serial and parallel implementations, computational complexity of the method increases as a linear and logarithmic functions of the number of the states of the system, uncertain variables, and the maximum degree of the basis functions used in the expansion.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Ethanol increases apolipoprotein B mRNA editing in rat primary hepatocytes and McArdle cells.

Apolipoprotein B (apoB) mRNA editing involves a site-specific cytidine to uridine transition catalyzed by the cytidine deaminase, APOBEC-1, in the context of and regulated by a multi-protein-containing editosome. ApoB mRNA editing in vivo is subject to tissue specific, developmental and metabolic regulation. We demonstrate for the first time that the amount of edited apoB mRNA in rat primary hepatocytes is markedly increased subsequent to transient treatment with ethanol in vitro. The apparent change in editing efficiency was dose-dependent (from 0.1%-2.4% initial ethanol dose) and occurred with rapid onset. The proportion of edited apoB mRNA was also markedly enhanced in a rat hepatoma cell line, McArdle RH7777 cells and in a stable McArdle cell line over-expressing APOBEC-1 by transient treatment with 2.5 % ethanol. In contrast, the apoB mRNA editing in a human hepatoma cell line, HepG2 cells and a stable HepG2 cell line over-expressing APOBEC-1 did not respond to ethanol treatment. The data support the possibility that editing activity is ethanol-responsive but suggest that this change is cell type-specific.
Computer‐aided synthesis and design of plant utility systems

A design synthesis procedure is developed for preliminary design of utility systems. Given known steam sources (waste heat and auxiliary boilers) and sinks (heating, process injection, and driver horsepower needs), the algorithm determines the optimal header pressure levels, the distribution of steam turbines in the network, and the steam flows between all devices so as to maximize the real work recovered from the sources. Any number of pressure levels can be accommodated at only modest increase in computational effort.
SLAP deficiency increases TCR avidity leading to altered repertoire and negative selection of cognate antigen-specific CD8+ T cells

How T cell receptor (TCR) avidity influences CD8+ T cell development and repertoire selection is not yet fully understood. To fill this gap, we utilized Src-like adaptor protein (SLAP)-deficient mice as a tool to increase TCR avidity on double positive (DP) thymocytes. We generated SLAP−/− mice with the transgenic MHC class I-restricted TCR (OT-1) and SLAP−/− Vβ5 mice, expressing only the β-chain of the TCR OT-1 transgene, to examine the effects of increased TCR surface levels on CD8+ T cell development and repertoire selection. In comparing SLAP−/− OT-1 and Vβ5 mice with wild-type controls, we performed compositional analysis and assessed thymocyte signaling by measuring CD5 levels. In addition, we performed tetramer and compositional staining to measure affinity for the cognate antigen, ovalbumin (OVA) peptide, presented by MHC. Furthermore, we quantified differences in α-chain repertoire in SLAP−/− Vβ5 mice. We have found that SLAP−/− OT-1 mice have fewer CD8+ thymocytes but have increased CD5 expression. SLAP−/− OT-1 mice have fewer DP thymocytes expressing Vα2, signifying increased endogenous α-chain rearrangement, and more non-OVA-specific CD8+ splenocytes upon tetramer staining. Our data demonstrate that SLAP−/− Vβ5 mice also have fewer OVA-specific cells and increased Vα2 usage in the peripheral Vβ5 CD8+ T cells that were non-OVA-specific, demonstrating differences in α-chain repertoire. These studies provide direct evidence that increased TCR avidity in DP thymocytes enhances CD8+ T cell negative selection deleting thymocytes with specificity for cognate antigen, an antigen the mature T cells may never encounter. Collectively, these studies provide new insights into how TCR avidity during CD8+ T cell development influences repertoire selection.
Color tolerance feasibility study comparing crt-generated stimuli with an acrylic-lacquer coating†

Visual color tolerances were calculated from observations made on difference pairs around a single green color center. The comparison was made between observations done for actual acrylic-lacquer samples and a simulation of the sample pairs on a computer-controlled CRT display. A light booth with simulated daylight was used to illuminate the surface colors and to provide surround illumination for the CRT. The luminances of the CRT and light booth were equalized at 150 cd/m2. Fifteen observers judged color differences relative to a near-gray anchor pair under three different conditions: CRT stimuli viewed with a dark surround, CRT stimuli viewed with a light surround generated by the light booth, and the surface colors. Probit analyses were used to transform population responses to estimates of equivalent color tolerances to the anchor pair, fiducial (confidence) limits about the tolerances, and population standard deviations. Observations were less precise (higher standard deviations) for CRT stimuli. This statistically significant difference was presumed due to differences in spatial and cognitive attributes. Despite these differences, observers' color tolerance determinations were not statistically different from one another or from previous experiments of the same color center but judged under a luminance three times higher than the current experiment. Results indicated that the experimental design was a reasonable approach to using CRT-generated stimuli for measuring visual color tolerances in a manner that correlates to surface-color judgments.
Research Off limits and Underground: Street Corner Methods for Finding Invisible Students

This paper investigates research methods for studies of school drop-outs and push-outs, populations that are very difficult to find since they no longer have an institutional affiliation. The work argues that street corner research, which was in favor among the early urban researchers of the Chicago school, may have a renewed role in these investigations. The details of street corner research are presented with a case study of a school at a prison serving non-criminal African American youth. Though no official access was granted for research at this site, street corner research methods enabled fieldwork and revealed the lives of youth who were otherwise inaccessible and consequently invisible.
Using Mobile Learning: Determinates Impacting Behavioral Intention

Abstract This study examined the factors or determinates that impact the behavioral intention of students to use mobile learning (m-learning) technology. These determinates include performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and self-management of learning, all mediated by age, gender, or both. Regression coefficients showed strong and significant relationships between performance expectancy and effort expectancy and the behavioral intention of using an m-learning strategy, whereas age and gender were determined to have no mediating impact.
On algorithms for discrete problems

The paper presents a theorem, applicable to many algorithms used in integer programming, which states that, under frequently met hypotheses, arbitrarily close (in the topology on real space) to most ''well-behaved'' integer programs there exist integer programs for which the algorithm requires arbitrarily many iterations to solve. Primary among the hypotheses of the theorem is the supposition that, in the determination of the next operation to be undertaken (perhaps addition of a cut row, or a pivot step, etc), the space of all possible tableaus is partitioned into a countable collection of disjoint sets (not necessarily open or connected), and on each partition element, the operation is continuous. Two other hypotheses of the theorem are frequently met, but are too technical to state here. What is surprising is the generality of the result, and the fact that the elaborateness of the calculations involved in any given iteration of the algorithm does not affect the result. On the other hand, the result is purely qualitative, and does not indicate the kinds of problems for which the algorithm requires many iterations.
DNA polymerase activity in rat brain during ontogeny.

Abstract Serial studies of DNA polymerase activity were made in the brain tissue of normal rats from −6 to 44 days of age. Peak levels of enzyme activity occurred at 6 to 10 days and much lower levels were noted after 20 days of age. This pattern of enzyme activity correlates with the rate of net DNA synthesis, which shows a doubling of total DNA content between 6 and 10 days and cessation of DNA synthesis at 20 days of age. This correlation exists whether the reference unit is DNA or supernatant protein, and whether native or denatured primer is used. However, as in most in vitro mammalian studies, enzyme activity is higher with denatured DNA primer than with native primer throughout the period of this study.
Outcome of Liver Transplantation for Drug- Induced Acute Liver Failure in the United States: Analysis of the United Network for Organ Sharing Database

Acute liver failure (ALF) is an uncommon but potentially lethal drug-related adverse effect that often leads to liver transplantation (LT) or death. A retrospective cohort study was performed with the United Network for Organ Sharing Standard Transplant Analysis and Research files. Recipients who underwent LT for drug-induced acute liver failure (DIALF) from 1987 through 2006 were analyzed. A total of 661 patients transplanted for DIALF were included in the analysis. The 4 leading implicated drug groups were acetaminophen (n = 265; 40%), antituberculosis drugs (n = 50; 8%), antiepileptics (n = 46; 7%), and antibiotics (n = 39; 6%). One-year estimated survival probabilities were 76%, 82%, 52%, 82%, and 79% for acetaminophen, antituberculosis drugs, antiepileptics, antibiotics, and others, respectively. The lower rate of survival among those exposed to antiepileptics was observed mainly in children. Of the 22 patients less than 18 years old who had ALF due to antiepileptics, 73% died within the first year. The difference in overall survival between acetaminophen-related and non–acetaminophen-related ALF was not statistically significant. Patients with acetaminophen-related ALF required dialysis prior to LT at a significantly higher rate than all other drug groups (27% versus 3%-10%, P < 0.0001). According to Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, the independent pretransplant predictors of death after LT were being on life support, DIALF due to antiepileptic drugs at age less than 18, and elevated serum creatinine. In conclusion, the leading drug groups causing LT due to DIALF in the United States were acetaminophen, antituberculosis drugs, antiepileptics, and antibiotics. Children who had ALF due to antiepileptics had a substantially higher risk of death after LT in comparison with other drugs. Patients transplanted for acetaminophen-related ALF required dialysis at a significantly higher rate. Being on life support, DIALF due to antiepileptics (at age less than 18), and elevated serum creatinine were independent pretransplant predictors of poor survival after LT for DIALF. Liver Transpl 15:719–729, 2009. © 2008 AASLD.
Peer commentary on Wolfgang Banzhaf's genetic programming and emergence

Welcome to the first instance of a new feature of Genetic Programming and Evolvable Machines: a ‘‘peer commentary’’ special section. This special section includes a ‘‘target article,’’ commentaries on the target article, and a response to the commentaries by the target article’s author. The editorial process for peer commentary sections in Genetic Programming and Evolvable Machines was developed in part through discussions at the 2012 meeting of the editorial board and was subsequently refined in further discussions among the journal’s editors. The purpose of a peer commentary special section in Genetic Programming and Evolvable Machines is to present lively, curated, informed and substantive discussion of important issues in the field. We are particularly interested in discussion of issues about which we expect there to be differing views in the community. To this end, the process is open to commentaries that support or criticize a target article, by members of the editorial board and their invitees. All commenters must agree to treat the target article as confidential prior to publication. The target article for our inaugural peer commentary special section was graciously provided by Wolgang Banzhaf, a leading thinker in our field and the founding editor of this journal. Professor Banzhaf has taken on a difficult and important topic concerning the nature of ‘‘emergence’’ in the study of complex systems and across the sciences more generally. He briefly surveys the historical context of the concept of emergence, explains emergence in terms of causal relations among hierarchically-organized entities, and makes the case that genetic
Initial effects of ACGME guidelines on a general surgery residency program

Introduction. The ACGME has implemented guidelines to augment resident education while limiting work hours. This study was conducted to confirm guideline compliance feasibility and effects on educational goals of surgical residencies. Methods. Compliance data were retrospectively reviewed from 11/03 to 4/04. For similar periods in 2002 and 2003, caseloads were quantified, abstract/manuscript submissions were compared, and ABSITE scores were analyzed. Applicant data were compared for 2003 and 2004. Physician extender costs were reviewed. Results. Compliance data are listed in the table. An average of 152 cases was performed in the 2002 and 142 in 2003. In 2002, 20 abstracts/manuscripts were submitted and, in 2003, 24 were submitted. Curriculum attendance was 77.2% in 2002 and 79.8% in 2003. The average ABSITE score in 2003 was 60.2 and in 2004, 61.5. For individuals in the program both years, average score decreased by 17.3. Increased scores were obtained by 3 of 15 individuals. There were 40 US and 81 total program applicants in 2003, and 80 US and 141 total program applicants in 2004. The annual budget for four physician extenders was $290,000. TABLE—ABSTRACT 62. ACGME Guideline Compliance Data (6-Month Interval) PGY (N) Hrs/week (mean) Workweek > 80 hrs (mean) Duty > 30 hrs∗ < 10 Hrs between work days∗ Days off per week (mean) 1 (6) 73.5 0.32 0.11 0.22 1.1 2 (5) 70.4 0.21 0 0.21 1.4 3 (5) 65.4 0.14 0.1 0.13 1.3 4 (4) 69.0 0.2 0 0.16 1.4 5 (3) 67.3 0.14 0.04 0.65 1.1 Avg 69.4 0.21 0.06 0.24 1.3 ∗ occurrences/resident/week. Full-size table Table options View in workspace Download as CSV Conclusions. Despite substantial cost, guideline compliance did not decrease resident caseload, lectures, or research opportunities. Our data reflecting ABSITE performance suggest decreased scores. The guidelines may have stimulated an increase in program applicants. Further study is needed to determine the long-term effects of the guidelines upon the educational goals of surgical residency programs.
Purification and structural properties of isozymes of isocitrate dehydrogenase from the mouse.

Cytoplasmic and mitochondrial isozymes of NADP+-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase were purified from kidney and heart tissue of an inbred strain of mice. The cytoplasmic isozyme was purified from kidney of DBA/2J mice by means of a four-step procedure which included affinity chromatography with an 8-(6-aminohexyl)-amino-NADP+-Sepharose column. The heart mitochondrial isozyme of DBA/2J mice was purified by a two-step procedure involving the use of 8-(6-aminohexyl)-amino-AMP-Sepharose and 8-(6-aminohexyl)-amino-NADP+-Sepharose columns. The specific activity of the homogeneous cytoplasmic and mitochondrial isozymes was 40 units/mg and 45 units/mg, respectively. Native and subunit molecular weights of these two isozymes were determined by chromatography on Sephadex G-100, G-150 and G-200 Superfine and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Both isozymes were found to be dimers with the subunit molecular weight of approximatively 35,000. The sedimentation coefficients were determined to be 5.9 and 6.1 for the mitochondrial and cytoplasmic isozyme, respectively. The amino acid compositions of these two isozymes revealed distinct differences in arginine and proline contents. A modified procedure regarding the use of affinity columns for the purification of the weakly bound enzymes is also discussed.
Mixed isoparametric finite element models of laminated composite shells

Mixed shear-flexible isoparametric elements are presented for the stress and free vibration analysis of laminated composite shallow shells. Both triangular and quadrilateral elements are considered. The 'generalized' element stiffness, consistent mass, and consistent load coefficients are obtained by using a modified form of the Hellinger-Reissner mixed variational principle. Group-theoretic techniques are used in conjunction with computerized symbolic integration to obtain analytic expressions for the stiffness, mass and load coefficients. A procedure is outlined for efficiently handling the resulting system of algebraic equations. The accuracy of the mixed isoparametric elements developed is demonstrated by means of numerical examples, and their advantages over commonly used displacement elements are discussed.
CO2 Metabolism in Corn Roots. III. Inhibition of P-enolpyruvate Carboxylase by l-malate

Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase was purified from corn root tips about 80-fold by centrifugation, ammonium sulfate fractionation, and anion exchange and gel filtration chromatography. The resulting preparation was essentially free from malate dehydrogenase, isocitrate dehydrogenase, malate enzyme, NADH oxidase, and pyruvate kinase activity. Kinetic analysis indicated that l-malate was a noncompetitive inhibitor of P-enolpyruvate carboxylase with respect to P-enolpyruvate (KI = 0.8 mm). d-Malate, aspartate, and glutamate inhibited to a lesser extent; succinate, fumarate, and pyruvate did not inhibit. Oxaloacetate was also a noncompetitive inhibitor of P-enolpyruvate carboxylase with an apparent KI of 0.4 mm. A comparison of oxaloacetate and l-malate inhibition suggested that the mechanisms of inhibition were different. These data indicated that l-malate may regulate CO2 fixation in corn root tips by a feedback or end product type of inhibition.
Genital arousal in women: Problem, Pathology or Normative Response

Interest in women's sexual functioning has increased in recent years although the primary emphasis has been on deficits in both genital and subjective sexual response. Clinically, it is not uncommon for women of all ages to present with complaints of difficulty becoming or remaining sexually aroused. While hormonal deficits or pharmacological agents are often implicated etiologically in the genital arousal and lubrication problems of peri or postmenopausal women, psychological and interpersonal factors usually play a significant role as well. Given the high prevalence of sexual complaints generally in women, and the co-morbidity of desire and arousal disorders, it is, perhaps, not surprising, that there exists a common assumption that women's genital responsivity is less reliable and robust than that of males. Recent sexual psychophysiology research suggests that this is not the case and that, in fact, women are capable of greater sexual responsiveness than previously assumed. There are also women who complain of excessive genital arousal. This condition, originally named persistent sexual arousal syndrome (PSAS) was renamed persistent genital arousal disorder (PGAD, Leiblum, 2006) because the problem appeared to be primarily one of unwanted and intrusive sensations of genital, rather than sexual, arousal. PGAD is characterized by five features: (1) involuntary genital and clitoral arousal that persists for an extended period of time; (2) persistent genital arousal that feels intrusive and unwanted; (3) persistent genital arousal that does not completely resolve following one or more orgasms; (4) persistent genital arousal that appears to be unrelated to conscious feelings of sexual desire; and (5) persistent genital arousal that is experienced as moderately distressing. In 2003, it was included as a provisional diagnosis by an international committee of experts convened to recommend revisions in the nomenclature of women's sexual dysfunctions. While there are women at either extreme of the genital arousal continuum, that is, too little or too much arousal, there is a third group of women- women who report genital arousal that appears unsolicited but which may be experienced as relatively persistent, pleasurable and nondistressing. Today's talk will review the findings of the most recent research on PGAD and non-PGAD women and will present case illustrations of the four kinds of arousal complaints in women. We will suggest that what appears to be spontaneous genital arousal in some women may be the result of either subconscious processing of sexual stimuli in the environment - stimuli that are either consciously unacceptable or not noticed- and that are negatively evaluated. This negative evaluation of genital sensations may result in heightened vigilance, increased anxiety, pelvic tension and increased sensations which reinforces the condition. Psychological interventions may be helpful in treating this problem for a subset of women without an identifiable organic basis for their complaint.
Changes in bone and serum minerals after parathyroidectomy and their prevention by portacaval shunt

Abstract The effect of portacaval shunt and parathyroidectomy on the concentration of calcium, magnesium, phosphate and hydroxyproline in the bone and the concentration of the three minerals in the serum has been studied in the growing rat. Parathyroidectomy produced a decreased net bone resorption as evidenced by higher concentrations of calcium, magnesium and phosphate; and a reduced net matrix formation, as evidenced by lower concentrations of hydroxyproline. Portacaval shunt, when performed with parathyroidectomy, prevented the development of these changes and produced "normal" concentrations of most of those elements, comparable to their concentrations in the control animals. The changes in serum calcium and magnesium produced by parathyroidectomy were prevented when portacaval shunt was performed in conjunction with the former procedure. Portacaval shunt alone produced no significant changes except for hypophosphatemia. This hypophosphatemia is speculated to have stimulated the production of 1,25-(OH) 2 D 3 in the kidney, which in turn produced those observed effects of portacaval shunt in the parathyroidectomized rat.
Bapxl: an evolutionary conserved homologue of the Drosophila bagpipe homeobox gene is expressed in splanchnic mesoderm and the embryonic skeleton

In Drosophila, the visceral mesoderm giving rise to gut musculature is specified by the bagpipe homeobox gene. We have isolated, from both mouse and human, homologues of the bagpipe gene designated Bapx1 and BAPX1, respectively. Bapx1 encodes a predicted protein of 333 amino acids, and has significant regions of homology outside the homeodomain with members of the NK homeobox gene superfamily. Bapx1 maps to the proximal end of chromosome 5 in mouse, near the Msx1 gene. The syntenic region in human corresponds to a chromosomal region containing loci for several skeletal disorders. Bapx1 is first detectable in embryos just prior to axis rotation in lateral plate mesoderm (splanchnic mesoderm) adjacent to the endodermal lining of the prospective gut, and in the most newly formed somites in the region corresponding to the presclerotome, the precursor of the vertebrae. Thus, Bapx1 is one of the earliest developmental markers for the sclerotome portion of the somite and the gut mesentery. Bapx1 continues to be expressed well into organogenesis in lateral plate mesoderm surrounding the mid- and hindgut, and in essentially all cartilaginous condensations which will subsequently undergo endochondral bone formation. The expression pattern of Bapx1 in murine embryos suggests that there are evolutionary conserved mechanisms of visceral mesoderm development across the animal kingdom, and that the mammalian Bapx1 gene may have recently acquired an additional developmental role in skeletal patterning.
Sex-specific quantitative trait loci contribute to normal variation in bone structure at the proximal femur in men.

Abstract Bone structure is an important determinant of osteoporotic fracture. In women, bone structure is highly heritable, and several quantitative trait loci (QTL) have been reported. There are few comparable data in men. This study in men aimed at establishing the heritability of bone structure at the proximal femur, identifying QTL contributing to normal variation in bone structure, and determining which QTL might be sex-specific. Bone structure at the proximal femur was measured in 205 pairs of brothers age 18–61. Heritability was calculated, and linkage analysis performed on phenotypes at the proximal femur. Heritability estimates ranged from 0.99 to 0.39. A genome wide scan identified suggestive QTL (LOD > 2.2) for femoral shaft width on chromosome 14q (LOD = 2.69 at position 99 cM), calcar femorale at chromosome 2p (LOD = 3.97 at position 194 cM) and at the X chromosome (LOD = 3.01 at position 77 cM), femoral neck width on chromosome 5p (LOD = 2.28 at position 0 cM), femoral head width on chromosome 11q (LOD = 2.30 at position 131 cM) and 15q (LOD = 3.11 at position 90 cM), and pelvic axis length on chromosome 4q (LOD = 4.16 at position 99 cM) and 17q (LOD = 2.80 at position 112 cM). Comparison with published data in 437 pairs of premenopausal sisters from the same geographical region suggested that 3 of the 7 autosomal QTL were male-specific. This study demonstrates that bone structure at the proximal femur in healthy men is highly heritable. The occurrence of sex-specific genes in humans for bone structure has important implications for the pathogenesis and treatment of osteoporosis.
Investigations on the mechanisms responsible for Ar+-laser-induced growth enhancement of GaAs by chemical beam epitaxy

Abstract The mechanisms responsible for Ar + -laser-induced growth enhancement of GaAs by chemical beam epitaxy with triethylgallium and tris(dimethylamino) arsenic as precursors are investigated here using numerical models developed for simulating the epitaxial growth and Ar + -laser-induced temperature rise. Numerical simulations taking the laser pyrolytic effect into account alone cannot reproduce observed growth-rate enhancements. Procedures are established for examining catalytic and photolytic effects of laser irradiation on epitaxial growth. Calculation of photoinduced surface excess carrier concentrations corresponding to experimental conditions reported in the literature reveals that the catalytic effect should be negligible. Amount of precursors in the first and second adsorption layers is looked into quantitatively. It is concluded that photodecomposition of chemisorbed TEGa decomposition products, along with laser-induced temperature rise, is responsible for observed Ar + -laser-induced GaAs growth enhancements. Likely photodecomposition reactions are postulated. The triethylgallium absorption cross section required to reproduce observed growth enhancement is estimated. Group-V species are found to control the growth-enhancement temperature window because of their site-blocking effects.
Alpha-particle inelastic scattering form factors in the Coulomb-nuclear interference region

Abstract Alpha-particle scattering cross sections have been measured at 15, 18 and 19 MeV from the ground state and first excited state of 52 Cr, 56 Fe, 60 Ni and 64 Zn. Excitation functions have also been measured for inelastic α-scattering from 52 Cr and 60 Ni. The data extends into the forwardangle Coulomb-nuclear interference region. The results are analysed with the optical model and DWBA, using the deformed potential model. The relative and absolute magnitudes of the nuclear and Coulomb deformation parameters and the shapes of the form factors have been deduced from the data. The importance of data in the Coulomb-nuclear interference region in determining these quantities is demonstrated.