cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Modulation of receptive field properties of thalamic somatosensory neurons by the depth of anesthesia.

Modulation of receptive field properties of thalamic somatosensory neurons by the depth of anesthesia. The dominant frequency of electrocorticographic (ECoG) recordings was used to determine the de...
Modeling the cultural dynamics of resistance and facilitation

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to clarify the role of organizational culture in governing the dynamics of resistance and facilitation of change by explicating the operational mechanisms underlying the Model of Organizational Change in Cultural Context (OC3 Model). Design/methodology/approach – A conceptual definition of facilitation is introduced that parallels the psychosocial construction of resistance, while departing from traditional views that cast these constructs as polar opposites. Within the context of the OC3 Model, a multifaceted perspective on organizational change is advanced in which facilitation takes place alongside of, rather than in the absence of, resistance. Findings – Two sources of resistance and facilitation are delineated, both stemming from the degree of cultural alignment of the content (strategic initiatives) and process (implementation strategies) elements of strategic change. The dynamic interplay of these independent sources of resistance and facilitation is explored ...
The telomerase essential N-terminal domain promotes DNA synthesis by stabilizing short RNA–DNA hybrids

Telomerase is an enzyme that adds repetitive DNA sequences to the ends of chromosomes and consists of two main subunits: the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) protein and an associated telomerase RNA (TER). The telomerase essential N-terminal (TEN) domain is a conserved region of TERT proposed to mediate DNA substrate interactions. Here, we have employed single molecule telomerase binding assays to investigate the function of the TEN domain. Our results reveal telomeric DNA substrates bound to telomerase exhibit a dynamic equilibrium between two states: a docked conformation and an alternative conformation. The relative stabilities of the docked and alternative states correlate with the number of basepairs that can be formed between the DNA substrate and the RNA template, with more basepairing favoring the docked state. The docked state is further buttressed by the TEN domain and mutations within the TEN domain substantially alter the DNA substrate structural equilibrium. We propose a model in which the TEN domain stabilizes short RNA-DNA duplexes in the active site of the enzyme, promoting the docked state to augment telomerase processivity.
Organic reactions at alumina surfaces. An extremely simple, convenient and selective method for acetylating primary alcohols in the presence of secondary alcohols.

Abstract Stirring primary-secondary diols in ethyl acetate solvent over Woelm alumina leads to the corresponding primary monoacetates simply, conveniently, and in good yields. In this way, primary hydroxyalkylphenols are converted into acetoxyalkylphenols, and primary arylamines are transformed into the corresponding acetamides.
Gas evolution in eruptive conduits: combining insights from high temperature and pressure decompression experiments with steady-state flow modeling

Abstract In this paper we examine the consequences of bubble nucleation mechanism on eruptive degassing of rhyolite magma. We use the results of published high temperature and pressure decompression experiments as input to a modified version of CONFLOW, the numerical model of Mastin and Ghiorso [(2000) U.S.G.S. Open-File Rep. 00-209, 53 pp.] and Mastin [(2002) Geochem. Geophys. Geosyst. 3, 10.1029/2001GC000192] for steady, two-phase flow in vertical conduits. Synthesis of the available experimental data shows that heterogeneous nucleation is triggered at ΔP 120–150 MPa, and leads to disequilibrium degassing at extreme H2O supersaturation. In this latter case, nucleation is an ongoing process controlled by changing supersaturation conditions. Exponential bubble size distributions are often produced with number densities of 106–109 bubbles/cm3. Our numerical analysis adopts an end-member approach that specifically compares equilibrium degassing with delayed, disequilibrium degassing characteristic of homogeneously-nucleating systems. The disequilibrium simulations show that delaying nucleation until ΔP=150 MPa restricts degassing to within ∼1500 m of the surface. Fragmentation occurs at similar porosity in both the disequilibrium and equilibrium modes (∼80 vol%), but at the distinct depths of ∼500 m and ∼2300 m, respectively. The vesiculation delay leads to higher pressures at equivalent depths in the conduit, and the mass flux and exit pressure are each higher by a factor of ∼2.0. Residual water contents in the melt reaching the vent are between 0.5 and 1.0 wt%, roughly twice that of the equilibrium model.
Assessing the validity of self-reported community benefit expenditures: evidence from not-for-profit hospitals in California.

CONTEXT: In its revised Form 990 Schedule H, the Internal Revenue Service requires not-for-profit hospitals to provide detailed financial information on their community benefits, yet no standardized reporting guidelines exist for how these activities should be quantified. As a result, little is known currently about whether a hospital's self-reported community benefit expenditures provide an accurate picture of its commitment to serving the community. OBJECTIVE: To assess the validity of hospitals' self-reported community benefit expenditures. DATA AND METHODS: Data for this study came from California hospitals. Self-reported community benefit expenditures were derived from hospitals' annual community benefit reports for the year 2009. Bivariate correlation analysis was used to compare self-reported expenditures to a set of indicators of hospitals' charitable activity. Of the 218 private, not-for-profit California hospitals that were required to submit community benefit reports for 2009, 91 (42%) provided sufficient information for our analysis. RESULTS: California hospitals' self-reported community benefit expenditures were strongly correlated with indicators of charitable activity. Hospitals that reported higher community benefit expenditures engaged in more charitable activities than hospitals that reported lower levels of community benefit spending. CONCLUSION: Expenditure information from California hospitals' community benefit reports was found to be a valid indicator of charitable activity. Self-reported community benefit spending may thus provide a fairly accurate picture of a hospital's commitment to serving its community, despite the lack of standardized reporting guidelines.
Bacteriolytic Action of Fluoride Ions

Bacillus subtilis, Neisseria subflava, and LYT coccus were found to undergo massive lysis after growth in media containing 0.01 to 10 mM NaF. When cells of these organisms were transferred from late-exponential-phase cultures to 0.02 M sodium phosphate buffer plus 0.1 M KCl, they underwent spontaneous autolysis. Cells grown in media with fluoride were more liable to autolysis, and walls isolated from them also showed enhanced autolytic sensitivity, even though added fluoride did not directly stimulate autolysins. Sporadic or partial lysis occurred in populations of Streptococcus sanguis and Streptococcus mutans BHT or LM-7 after growth in fluoridated media. Most bacteria that were tested did not undergo fluoride-induced lysis. However, cells of all test bacteria were found to have reduced amounts of peptidoglycan per unit of cell weight when grown in the presence of fluoride. Incorporation of labeled lysine or glucosamine into peptidoglycan (Park-Hancock residue) was stimulated, instead of inhibited, by fluoride. However, fluoride also stimulated the loss of radioactivity from Park-Hancock residues of cells that had previously incorporated labeled lysine or glucosamine. Thus, fluoride appeared to enhance peptidoglycan turnover, and this turnover reduced the peptidoglycan contents of all bacteria tested, but induced lysis in only those bacteria that normally have highly active autolytic systems.
Improving Obesity Prevention at the Local Level — Emerging Opportunities

A coalescence of available scientific evidence and new regulatory possibilities is creating opportunities for local innovation in addressing obesity. One promising example stems from the menu-labeling provisions of the Affordable Care Act.
Subjective Performance Evaluation And Person-Role Conflict Under Conditions Of Uncertainty

In a survey of supervisor-subordinate dyads, supervisors were differentiated by perceived uncertainty regarding the work of their unit. Subordinates of high uncertainty supervisors reported greater...
MULTILAYERED STRUCTURES (MLSs) IN TWO DINOFLAGELLATES, KATODINIUM CAMPYLOPS AND WOLOSZYNSKIA PASCHERI1

The multilayered structure (MLS), best-known from the flagellar apparatus of charophycean green algae and land plant motile cells, is reported for the first time in members of the Dinophyceae. The MLSs in two dinoflagellates, Katodinium campylops (Harris) Fott and Woloszynskia pascheri (Suchlandt) von Stosch, are similar to other MLSs in possessing the microtubular spline and lamellar strip. Also, as in the majority of MLS-containing organisms, 1) the MLS of each dinoflagellate is closely associated with basal bodies; 2) the spline microtubules possess “keel-like” extensions and 3) extend beyond the MLS, forming a microtubular rootlet that runs beneath the cell surface in a posterior direction; and 4) a mitochondrion is associated with the MLS (K. campylops only) The size, location, and general construction of the MLSs of K. campylops and W. pascheri suggest that they may be homologous to previously described MLSs.
Autonomous and non-autonomous regulation of mammalian neurite development by Notch1 and Delta1.

Abstract Background: On the basis of experiments suggesting that Notch and Delta have a role in axonal development in Drosophila neurons, we studied the ability of components of the Notch signaling pathway to modulate neurite formation in mammalian neuroblastoma cells in vitro . Results: We observed that N2a neuroblastoma cells expressing an activated form of Notch, Notch1 IC , produced shorter neurites compared with controls, whereas N2a cell lines expressing a dominant-negative Notch1 or a dominant-negative Delta1 construct extended longer neurites with a greater number of primary neurites. We then compared the effects on neurites of contacting Delta1 on another cell and of overexpression of Delta1 in the neurite-extending cell itself. We found that N2a cells co-cultured with Delta1-expressing quail cells produced fewer and shorter neuritic processes. On the other hand, high levels of Delta1 expressed in the N2a cells themselves stimulated neurite extension, increased numbers of primary neurites and induced expression of Jagged1 and Notch1. Conclusions: These studies show that Notch signals can antagonize neurite outgrowth and that repressing endogenous Notch signals enhances neurite outgrowth in neuroblastoma cells. Notch signals therefore act as regulators of neuritic extension in neuroblastoma cells. The response of neuritic processes to Delta1 expressed in the neurite was opposite to that to Delta1 contacted on another cell, however. These results suggest a model in which developing neurons determine their extent of process outgrowth on the basis of the opposing influences on Notch signals of ligands contacted on another cell and ligands expressed in the same cell.
Reflections on Riesman

Dans cet article, l'A fait part de ses reflexions concernant la pensee et les ecrits de David Reisman. L'A revient sur la carriere universitaire de Reisman pour se pencher sur le sens accorde au liberalisme ainsi qu'au politiques et biens publics par ce democrate chevronne
Tertiary sector of the science industry

A Guide to the Culture of Science, Technology, and Medicine. Edited by Paul T. Durbin. (Free Press/Collier Macmillan: 1980.) $45, £30.
The Role of Temperament in Pediatric Pain Response

This study explores the role of temperament in pediatric pain perception and responses. The sample consisted of 3- to 7-year-olds (N = 137) who required preoperative blood test by venipuncture. Blood sampling procedures were videotaped. Children's pain responses were measured by their behaviors, pulse oximetry, and self-report of pain. Parents reported their child's usual pain behaviors, previous pain experiences, and temperament. The temperament category threshold was found to relate to self-report and distress behaviors during the preparation phase. The temperament categories of activity, mood, approach, adaptability, intensity, and threshold related to children's previous pain responses and usual pain behaviors. These previous behaviors were strong predictors for their responses to venipuncture pain.
COMPOSITION OF PREPARTUM MAMMARY SECRETIONS OF TWO BOWHEAD WHALES (BALAENA MYSTICETUS L.)

Mammary secretions from two bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus L.) females carrying near-term fetuses were analyzed for dry matter, ash, protein, fat, carbohydrate and energy content. Protein values ranged from 75.9% to 97.3% of dry matter. Fat ranged from 0.6% to 9.1 % of dry matter. A protein corresponding to beta-lactoglobulin on gel filtration chromatography was the predominant whey protein. Neutralizing antibodies to nine caliciviruses were detected in one sample. Composition of these two samples differs from previous reports for cetacean milk, perhaps due to the stage of lactation.
Thermal conductivity of superfluid 3He in aerogel

Abstract We report theoretical calculations of the thermal conductivity of superfluid 3 He impregnated into high-porosity aerogel and compare these results with available experimental data.
Effects of presentation mode on discrimination skills of articulatory disordered children.

Summary.-The speech-sound discrimination of 30 kindergarten children with problems in speech production and speech discrimination was examined under one of three experimental conditions, auditory, bimodal, and bimodal instructed. Children's discrimination skills in the bimodal-instructed group were superior to those of bimodal- and auditory-presentation groups. Stimulation of both the auditory and visual channels improved the discrimination scores over those achieved using the auditory channel alone. The purpose of the present study was to determine the effectiveness of input mode and cueing instructions for improving auditory discrimination of children with articulatory errors. Perceptual training, usually in the form of auditory discrimination of speech sounds, in the early phases of articulatory therapy has been advocated (11, 12). Discrimination training focusing on contrasts between the error sound and the target phoneme is usually recommended although typically the client is asked to discriminate the clinician's productions, there has been a paucity of attention to the mechanism for accomplishing interpersonal competence in discrimination. In this study the relative value of auditory, auditory-visual (bimodal), and bimodal-instructed input on speechsound discrimination was examined. Scott and Milisen (9, 10) examined the influence of presentation mode on speech production and found bimodal presentation superior in eliciting correct articulation and correcting defective articulation. More recently, Green, Green, and Holmes (4) examined whether misarticulating children relied on auditory and/or visual cues during speech-discrimination tasks and found that children used visual cues to aid in their identification of words, phrases, and sentences. Apparently, children who are spontaneously attentive or are instructed to be attentive to the speaker will enhance their recognition/discrimination skills using visual cues. Further, children with low articulation and discrimination scores are inattentive to sound differences and have not habitually developed effective awareness of these sound differences ( 7). Additional research is required to determine the most effective techniques to enhance speech discrimination skills and the applicability of these techniques to the therapy situation (8). The purpose of the present study was to determine the effectiveness of
On the naming of color words and color patches.

Subjects can name color words faster than they can name color patches. To account for that effect, a generic model of naming is described which assumes that words access the mental lexicon directly, whereas color patches do so only indirectly via an initial imaginal or semantic representation. However, Lund (1927) reported that the naming advantage for words disappeared when all the items to be named on a page were the same (i.e., they were blocked). In the present study, three experiments are reported that were designed to provide a clearer empirical definition of Lund’s blocking effect and to ascertain the extent to which it requires a modification of the generic model. The blocked lists had 50 items arranged into 10 blocks, with each block homogeneous with respect to color. The block lengths were either all a predictable length of 5 items or they varied randomly from 1 to 9 items. The data indicated the following: (1) The blocking effect occurred even when the task required a full identification of each item, and (2) the blocking effect was confined to within-block transitions. Blocking seemed to eliminate the word advantage by allowing the subject to re-use the lexical entry used for the immediately prior item, which is consistent with the generic model.
Physico-chemical measurements to investigate regional cloud-climate feedback mechanisms

On a regional scale, cloud-climate feedback mechanisms are investigated by analyzing the impact of anthropogenic sulfur emissions on the microstructure and short-wave albedo of clouds formed at a mountain-top location and simultaneously observing these clouds by AVHRR (Advance Very High Resolution Radiometer) aboard the NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration) satellites. Cloud droplet number concentrations (CDNC) and ionic composition of cloud water are measured in situ along with meteorological parameters. The thickness of the overlying clouds and the 48 h back-trajectories of air masses are determined from on site measurements and Hybrid Single Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory (HY-SPLIT) model. In general, more acidic clouds were found to have smaller effective radii of droplets but larger CDNC. The short-wave albedo of clouds determined from in situ measurements decreased with an increase in the cloud water pH which was largely affected by the sulfate concentration in the cloud forming air mass. For six coincidental cloud events, the AVHRR retrieved cloud albedo (channel 1, wavelength = 0.63 μm) agreed well with those determined from in situ microphysical measurements, the correlation coefficient being 0.95. These findings indicate that the sulfate contents of air masses are capable of influencing cloud-climate feedback mechanisms by changing the albedo of thin, continental clouds.
Insulin and glucagon mRNA expression and prohormone convertase immunoreactivity in normal and neoplastic pancreatic endocrine tissue

Prohormone convertase (PC) 1/3 and PC2 are neuroendocrine-specific enzymes that convert prohormones to active hormones. To learn more about the role of these PCs in normal and neoplastic islet cells, we analyzed a series of pancreatic endocrine tumors to determine the role of PC1/3 and PC2 in islet cell hormone processing. In situ hybridization with insulin and glucagon probes and immunostaining with antibodies to PC1/3 and PC2 were done with 6 normal pancreases, 33 insulinomas, and 7 glucagonomas. The intensity of the reactions was graded from 0 to 3+. Normal islets stained strongly for both proinsulin and proglucagon mRNAs. Insulinomas and glucagonomas had readily detected hormone mRNAs for proin sulin and proglucagon, respectively. Normal pancreatic insulin cells stained weakly for PC1/3 (1+) and PC2 (1−2+), and glucagon cells stained weakly for PC1/3 (1−2+) and strongly for PC2 (2−3+). Both insulinomas and glucagonomas stained strongly for PC2 (2−3+) with less intense staining for PC1 (1−2+). These results indicate that PC2 is more highly expressed in insulin- and glucagon-producing pancreatic islet cell tumors and that there is increased expression of PC2 in insulinomas compared to normal insulin-producing cells.
Variations in the enzymatic activity of duodenal contents. Preliminary report.

A system of enzyme analysis has been developed which permits an accurate estimation of the proteolytic, lipolytic and amylolytic activity of the enzymes of duodenal contents. When this system of analysis is applied to duodenal contents secured after stimulating pancreatic secretion with olive oil, it has been found possible to define the normal range of values with a reasonable degree of accuracy, and give these in terms of the normal taken as 100. Employing this method of recording the enzyme activities to pathological cases, abnormal values stand out very clearly from the normal. Very low values are found in pancreatitis and certain other conditions, while subnormal values are encountered in various gastro-intestinal disorders which may have an effect on the pancreas. In diabetes the enzyme activity may be subnormal, or considerably elevated.
Synthesis, x-ray crystal structure, and phosphine-exchange reactions of the hafnium(III)-hafnium(III) dimer Hf2Cl6(PEt3)4

Reduction of HfCl 4 with sodium-potassium alloy in the presence of PEt 3 yields the dark green hafnium(III)-hafnium(III) dimer Hf 2 Cl 6 (PEt 3 ) 4 . The X-ray crystal structure shown that molecules of Hf 2 Cl 6 (PEt 3 ) 4 consist of two octahedral hafnium centers that are connected by a hafnium-hafnium bond and two bridging chloridc ligands.
Improvement in Day Zero Recoveries in Field Soil Dissipation Studies Using Larger Diameter Soil Samples

Obtaining acceptable recovery of the applied test substance at zero time in field soil dissipation studies has been a subject of considerable interest among scientists conducting regulatory field studies. In particular, achieving recoveries of ≥90% in soil samples collected immediately after applications in most studies has been elusive. This study investigated a modified soil sampling method, which could be used not only on day zero but for the entire study duration, to see if the recoveries in soil samples, especially in the early stages, can be improved. The modified sampling system has demonstrated that recoveries averaging 90% are possible and can be routinely obtained on day zero. Description of this modified sampling procedure and statistical analysis of the data collected for day zero samples are discussed.
Effect of the Sudden Withdrawal or Increase of Suckling on Serum LH Levels in Ovariectomized Postparturient Rats

Postparturient rats were ovariectomized on day 1 postpartum and allowed to nurse either 2 or 9 pups. On days 6 or 11, the 9–pup litters were discarded and the 2–pup litters were increased to 9 pups. The mothers' serum luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were determined by radioimmunoassay immediately before, and at intervals up to 7 days after the change in litter size. Controls were: ovariectomized on day 1, with litters of either 2 or 9 pups or with pups removed; sham ovariectomized on day 1, with litters of either 2 or 9 pups. In all control groups, litter size was not changed but pups were replaced with pups of the same age at the same intervals after delivery as in the experimental groups. In the intact control rats and in the ovariectomized controls nursing 9 pups, serum LH was well below 2.0 ng equivalent of LH—LER–1240/ml until day 11, and rose only slightly on or after day 12. In the ovariectomized controls with 0– or 2–pup litters, however, the serum LH levels were between 3.6 (2 pups) to 5.0 (0–pup...
Potential Barrier Chromatography: An HPLC Method for Protein Separations

Abstract Potential barrier chromatography (PBC) is a separation technique for proteins, colloidal sols, and possibly for viruses and cells; it is feasible when the potential energies of the van der Waals attraction, double-layer, Born, and hydration repulsions between adsorbate and adsorbent produce surmountable energy barriers to adsorption as well as moderately deep adsorption (energy) wells. The adsorbates can move over the potential barrier (for adsorption) when it is not too large and, if the adsorption well is not too deep, can also desorb without difficulty. The above-mentioned interaction potentials are very sensitive to small changes in adsorbate size, surface potential, Hamaker constant, ionic strength, etc. Thus two adsorbates which slightly differ in charge and/or size, etc., will require different lengths of time for one set of adsorption and desorption. Consequently, their residence times in the column (which involve repeated sets of adsorption and desorption) can differ enough to permit a s...
Nanomechanical Control of Cell Rolling in Two Dimensions through Surface Patterning of Receptors

We envisioned that label-free control of the transport of cells in two dimensions through receptor–ligand interactions would enable simple separation systems that are easy to implement yet retain the specificity of receptor–ligand interactions. Here we demonstrate nanomechanical control of cell transport in two dimensions via transient receptor–ligand adhesive bonds by patterning of receptors that direct cell rolling through an edge effect. HL-60 cells rolling on P-selectin receptor patterns were deflected at angles of 5–10° with respect to their direction of travel. Absence of this effect in the case of rigid microsphere models of cell rolling suggests that this two-dimensional motion depends on nanomechanical properties of the rolling cell. This work suggests the feasibility of simple continuous-flow microfluidic cell separation systems that minimize processing steps and yet retain the specificity of receptor–ligand interactions.
Failure of the Durom Metasul acetabular component.

Large-diameter metal-on-metal articulations reportedly provide better stability and range of motion than smaller diameter bearings. We therefore asked whether a large-diameter (44- to 50-mm) metal-on-metal articulation (Durom®) would eliminate dislocation and provide similar functional scores and clinical and radiographic failure rates as those with 28-mm articulation. We prospectively followed 181 patients (207 hips) who had a large-diameter articulation implanted between May 2006 and November 2007. We compared these patients with a historical control of 54 patients who had a small-diameter (28-mm Metasul®) articulation. All patients had a Harris hip score and a self-assessment of outcome and radiographic followup. The minimum followup was 1 year (mean, 1.6 years; range, 1–2 years). During the followup period, we performed revisions on 29 patients (30 hips [15%]) with 21 of 29 (72%) having radiographic criteria of loosening. Thirteen retrieved cups and acetabular tissue were examined histologically. Twenty-eight of 151 unrevised patients had radiographic impending failure; 12 without revision had clinical failure. Eight patients (nine hips) had both clinical failure and impending radiographic failure. Cup inclination was 41.3° ± 5.4° and anteversion was 20.2° ± 7°. The revision rate and quality of clinical results were unacceptable as compared with our historical controls. We do not recommend use of the Durom® implant. Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
A test of the law of effective stress for crystalline rocks of low porosity

Abstract A variety of crystalline silicate rocks of low porosity (0·001-0·03) were fractured in triaxial experiments at strain rates from about 10−3 to 10−1 sec−1. Comparison of the fracture strengths at different pore pressures provided a test of the law of effective stress for these brittle rocks. The tests revealed that the law of effective stress held for these rocks only when loading rate was less than some critical value which depended on permeability of the rock, viscosity of the pore fluid and sample geometry. In our experiments with water, it was about 10−7 sec−1 for cylindrical samples of granite several centimeters long for example. In experiments at loading rates greater than the critical value, the rock was as much as 50 per cent stronger than at zero pore pressure. Although this effect will probably have little geological application, it could well be significant for rock stressed as a result of earthquake motion or for rock in the vicinity of buried nuclear explosions.
The Hardy Class of Geometric Models and the Essential Spectral Radius of Composition Operators

Letφbe an analytic map of the disk into itself (that fixes the origin). Then, it is well known thatφinduces a bounded composition operatorCφon the Hardy spaceH2(D). Also, by a classical result of Kœnigs there is an analytic mapσsuch thatσ∘φ=λσ(λ=φ′(0)≠0), which is one-to-one whenφis one-to-one. Recently, P. Bourdon and J. Shapiro found a lower bound for the essential spectral radius ofCφin terms ofλandh(σ)=sup{p>0: σ∈Hp(D)}, and asked for an exact formula. In the following, we assume thatφis one-to-one. We determine the Hardy class ofσin terms of the image setG=σ(D), and then show that Bourdon and Shapiro's lower bound is also an upper bound, hence answering their question in the case of univalent symbols. Moreover, in an earlier paper, Shapiro, Smith, and Stegenga introduced the concept of twisted sectors to estimateh(σ), and we showed [P. Poggi-Corradini,Trans. Amer. Math. Soc.348(6) (1996), 2503–2518] how the dynamics of the mapφand some harmonic measure estimates allow one to completely characterize the caseh(σ)=∞ in terms of twisted sectors. By further analyzing this concept, we produce a new characterization ofh(σ) in terms of the invariant sector-like regions that are contained inG=σ(D). This different approach also yields another proof of Bourdon and Shapiro's lower bound mentioned above, in our specific case.
SPECULATIONS BASED ON THE MORPHOLOGY OF THE GOLGI SYSTEMS IN SEVERAL TYPES OF PROTEIN-SECRETING CELLS

Electron microscopical observations on the relationship of the Golgi region to other intracellular organelles in certain protein-secreting cells have substantiated and extended existing hypotheses. In micrographs of several cell types, the juxtanuclear Golgi regions were observed to be closely associated with nuclear "pores." The "transition elements" of the ergastoplasmic membranes possess "blebs" which may represent a transport process facilitating the movement of intracisternal contents into the Golgi zone. A "blebbing" process of this nature may be one source of the small variety of Golgi vesicles. Zymogen granules of different densities were observed and their significance was postulated. Light Golgi vacuoles were observed. It is suggested that these vacuoles represent accumulations of relatively fluid material segregated from the secretory product in these cell types. These hypotheses from inferential evidence are discussed and extended.
Asymmetric broad waveguide diode lasers (/spl lambda/ = 980 nm) of large equivalent transverse spot size and low temperature sensitivity

980-nm InGaAs-InGaAsP diode lasers of asymmetric broad-waveguide (BW) transverse structure are demonstrated. Single-transverse-mode devices have equivalent (transverse) spot sizes of 0.8 /spl mu/m (i.e., significantly larger than for symmetric BW structures), which are obtained at no price in device-parameter temperature sensitivity. Built-in discrimination against the first-order transverse mode allows fundamental-transverse-mode operation in relatively narrow beams (/spl theta//sub /spl perp// = 34/spl deg/). For 2-mm-long 100-/spl mu/m-wide-stripe uncoated devices with double-quantum-well active regions, the threshold-current density is as low as 190 A/cm/sup 2/, while the characteristic temperatures for the threshold-current density T/sub 0/, and the external differential quantum efficiency T/sub 1/ are high: 183 K and 650 K, respectively.
Molecular Sensors for MEMS

There is a continuing need for detailed measurement of the performance of various MEMS devices. MEMS devices have been applied in fields like medical instrument, computer chip cooling, and propulsion for satellite...etc. The physical phenomena at the micro scale are different from the macro scale and are important to characterize. Most of the sensors applied to MEMS devices measurement have limited resolution restricted by the sensor size and device geometry. Molecular sensors are options for global distribution measurement in MEMS devices. They can be used to obtain temperature, heat transfer, pressure, and shear stress distribution. The application range for the PSP (pressure sensitive paint) sensor is from IxlO" to 2atm, and the temperature range for TSP (temperature sensitive paint) sensor is from -196 to 200C with good spatial resolution.
Appearing Socially Competent: The Effects of a Friend's Presence on the Socially Anxious

As hypothesized, while introducing themselves to another person via video, participants high in social anxiety appeared more socially competent with a friend present than when alone. We also examined three potential explanations for this effect and found that while sharing information about themselves on video, most participants high in social anxiety were verbally prompted by their friends. Furthermore, on an open ended question, participants high in social anxiety expressed less negative self-focused thoughts with a friend present than when alone, but friends' presence did not affect their self-reports of anxiety. As predicted, the presence of friends had no effect on social performance or anxiety for participants low in social anxiety. Although more research is needed to ascertain how being with a friend versus alone results in better social performance for people high in social anxiety, friends' support may be part of a repertoire of “safe” social interaction strategies.
Changes in somatosensory evoked potentials in dogs following cardiac arrest and resuscitation

Abstract The effect of cardiac arrest induced global cerebral ischemia on the peripheral, spinal cord, and cortical somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEP) was studied in 7 mongrel dogs. Following the recording of control responses in each animal, ventricular fibrillation was induced and the dogs were allowed to fibrillate for a random time varying between 30 s and 15 min. The animals were then resuscitated using a standardized resuscitation protocol, and evoked potentials were recorded at intervals up to 1 h post resuscitation. A grading scale was devised to categorize the evoked potentials according to degree of abnormality. We found that peripheral SSEPs were well preserved up to 22 min ischemia time. Spinal cord potentials became abnormal with ischemia times greater than 9.5 min. Cortical traces were essentially normal with less than 4 min ischemia time, variable with 4–9.5 min and markedly abnormal with greater than 9.5 min ischemia. Somatosensory evoked potentials may be a useful adjunct in the monitoring of cerebral function following cardiac arrest.
TMJ sound prints: electronic auscultation and sonagraphic audiospectral analysis of the temporomandibular joint

Sonagrams taken for asymptomatic and symptomatic participants in the study were analyzed for characteristics that might be possible to use in diagnosis of temporomandibular joint dysfunction. A sonagraphic analysis of sounds elicited by the temporomandibular joints during opening-closing movements was carried out. A TMJ sound print of each study participant was made and then classified into one of four groups with use of amplitude, decibel levels, and frequency as criteria. This study showed that it may be possible to discern a pathologic joint from a normal joint or to foresee a predisposed pathosis.
Effect of oxygen on cyclic GMP-dependent protein kinase- mediated relaxation in ovine fetal pulmonary arteries and veins

Cyclic GMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG) plays an important role in regulating pulmonary vasomotor tone in the perinatal period. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that a change in oxygen ten...
Does Chemotherapy Prior to Emergency Surgery Affect Patient Outcomes? Examination of 1912 Patients

Background Data regarding preoperative chemotherapy as a risk to surgical outcomes are limited. This study examines morbidity and mortality among patients necessitating emergent surgical procedures ≤30 days after chemotherapy.
Disclosing Conflicts of Interest in Clinical Research: Views of Institutional Review Boards, Conflict of Interest Committees, and Investigators

Strategies for disclosing investigators' financial interests to potential research participants have been adopted by many research institutions. However, little is known about how decisions are made regarding disclosures of financial interests to potential research participants, including what is disclosed and the rationale for making these determinations. We sought to understand the attitudes, beliefs, and practices of institutional review board chairs, conflict of interest committee chairs, and investigators regarding disclosure of financial interests to potential research participants. Several themes emerged, including general attitudes toward conflicts of interest, circumstances in which financial interests should be disclosed, rationales and benefits of disclosure, what should be disclosed, negative effects of and barriers to disclosure, and timing and presentation of disclosure. Respondents cited several rationales for disclosure, including enabling informed decision making, promoting trust in researchers and research institutions, and reducing legal liability. There was general agreement that disclosure should happen early in the consent process. Respondents disagreed about whether to disclose the amounts of particular financial interests. Clarifying the goals of disclosure and understanding how potential research participants use the information will be critical in efforts to ensure the integrity of clinical research and to protect the rights and interests of participants.
Successful use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for acute respiratory failure in a patient with chronic granulomatous disease

A 9-year-old boy presented with pneumonia, bilateral pulmonary lesions, and fulminant respiratory failure requiring support with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Open lung biopsy and subsequent bronchoscopy identified Nocardia cyriacigeorgica and Burkholderia cepacia pneumonia. Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) was diagnosed by an abnormal neutrophil oxidative burst assay. An aggressive diagnostic and therapeutic strategy, which included ECMO, allowed for patient survival and return to baseline function. No ECMO survivors with CGD have previously been reported. It is now recognized that several forms of CGD exist, and some forms may be compatible with long-term survival. Therefore, the diagnosis of CGD should not necessarily be considered a contraindication to ECMO. This is the first known survivor of CGD-related acute respiratory failure supported by ECMO.
Pattern processing and slow-wave activity in visual cortex of cat

Abstract Animal models play a significant role in research on human disorders. In vision research, the recording of single-neuron activity from animals has been of great value to our understanding of pattern processing mechanisms. In humans, investigations of visual function have typically utilized slow-wave activity. We have studied in cats the relationship between pattern processing and the slow-wave evoked response recorded from cortical areas 17, 18, 19 and 4 in the awake cat. We have found that within a restricted latency range the response in 17, 18 and 19 reflects the processing of the patterness of a visual stimulus. A comparison of response components occurring prior to 50 msec poststimulus showed few significant differences ( P P
Wireless actuation and control of ionic polymer–metal composite actuator using a microwave link

The ionic polymer–metal composite (IPMC), a type of electroactive polymer (EAP) actuator, has created a unique opportunity to design robots that mimic the motion of biological systems due to its soft structure and operation at a low voltage. Although this polymer actuator has strong potential for a next-generation artificial muscle actuator, it has been observed by many researchers that supplying actuation voltages in multiple locations is challenging. In robotic applications, a tethered operation is prohibited and the battery weight can be critical for actual implementation. In this research, the remote unit can provide necessary power and control signals to the target mobile robot units actuated by IPMCs. This research addresses a novel approach of using a wireless power link between the IPMC and a remote unit using microstrip patch antennas designed on the electrode surface of the IPMC for transmitting the power. Frequency modulation of the microwave is proposed to selectively actuate a particular port...
The ruptured Achilles tendon: operative and non-operative treatment options

The Achilles tendon is the strongest and thickest tendon in the human body. Like any other tendon in the body, however, it is susceptible to rupture. Many surgeons advocate early operative repair of the ruptured Achilles tendon, citing decreased re-rupture rates and improved functional outcome. Waiting for surgical repair for longer than one month may lead to inferior functional results postoperatively. Non-operative treatment has higher re-rupture rates as compared to surgically repaired tendons, but may be the treatment of choice in some patients. While for many years, patients were rigidly immobilized in a non-weightbearing cast for 6–8 weeks postoperatively, newer studies have shown excellent results with early weightbearing, and this is quickly becoming the standard of care amongst many physicians.
Energy efficient spatial distribution of nodes in a sensor network

A principal factor in sensor network design is energy efficiency. In this work, we propose to extend the lifetime of sensor networks using appropriate choice of sensor node distribution. The key idea of our scheme is to deploy more nodes in areas of extensive energy usage. Using this scheme of sensor node distribution, we use probabilistic angular routing to route data packets from the sensor nodes to a sink. This scheme makes use of link usage probabilities to route data packets to immediate neighbors. It also incorporates angular routing which forwards packets only to neighboring sensor nodes present in assigned conical regions to prevent unnecessarily lengthy routes.
The role of preoperative endorectal magnetic resonance imaging in the decision regarding whether to preserve or resect neurovascular bundles during radical retropubic prostatectomy

BACKGROUND Because the recovery of erectile function and the avoidance of positive surgical margins are important but competing outcomes, the decision to preserve or resect a neurovascular bundle (NVB) during radical prostatectomy (RP) should be based on the most accurate information concerning the location and extent of the tumor. In the current study, the authors determined the incremental value of endorectal magnetic resonance imaging (eMRI) in making this decision. METHODS eMRI was performed in 135 patients preoperatively. For each NVB, tumor extension to the NVB and the need for NVB resection was judged by a surgeon on a scale from 1 (definite preservation) to 5 (definite resection) before and after reviewing eMRI with a radiologist. Histopathologic findings were used as the standard of reference. The value of eMRI was assessed using binormal receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis adjusted for multiple observations per patient, and a mixed effects ordinal regression model was used for risk stratification. RESULTS Histopathologic examination determined that NVB resection was warranted in 44 of 270 NVBs (16%) because of posterolateral extracapsular extension (n = 29), positive surgical margins (n = 7), or both (n = 8). The areas under the ROC curves (AUC) were 0.741 for pre-MRI and 0.832 for post-MRI surgical planning (P < 0.01). MRI findings suggested altering the surgical plan in 39% of NVBs (106 of 270 NVBs). When the surgeon judged that the NVB resection was definitely not necessary (165 NVBs), MRI confirmed that decision in 138 NVBs (84%); the concordant decision was correct in 96% of the cases (133 of 138 NVBs). In 36 high-risk patients (≥ 75% probability of extracapsular extension), MRI findings changed the surgical plan for 28 NVBs (78%); the change was found to be appropriate in 26 cases (93%). CONCLUSIONS MRI was found to significantly improve the surgeon's decision to preserve or resect the NVB during radical prostatectomy. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
SLAC Control Room Consolidation Using Linked Computers

Consolidation of two large accelerator control rooms using digital computers connected by a data link is described. Several consolidation plans are discussed and the adopted solution is described. The key elements are touch panels operating with a TV display system.
The New Religious Policy in China: Catching up with Systemic Reforms

China9s new religious policy expands the institutional autonomy of religious organizations, limits the power of religious affairs bureaus, and provides for administrative appeal, judicial challenge, and sanctioning errant officials. As such, it is an effort of the Chinese government to integrate religious policy with its systemic socioeconomic and political reforms.
Interleaved spiral‐in/out with application to functional MRI (fMRI)

The conventional spiral-in/out trajectory samples k-space sufficiently in the spiral-in path and sufficiently in the spiral-out path to enable creation of separate images. We propose an "interleaved spiral-in/out" trajectory comprising a spiral-in path that gathers one half of the k-space data, and a complimentary spiral-out path that gathers the other half. The readout duration is thereby reduced by approximately half, offering two distinct advantages: reduction of signal dropout due to susceptibility-induced field gradients (at the expense of signal-to-noise ratio [SNR]), and the ability to achieve higher spatial resolution when the readout duration is identical to the conventional method. Two reconstruction methods are described; both involve temporal filtering to remove aliasing artifacts. Empirically, interleaved spiral-in/out images are free from false activation resulting from signal pileup around the air/tissue interface, which is common in the conventional spiral-out method. Comparisons with conventional methods using a hyperoxia stimulus reveal greater frontal-orbital activation volumes but a slight reduction of overall activation in other brain regions.