cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of intravenous infusion of human prostate tissue substances in dogs

Symptoms of postresection syndromes following transurethral prostatectomy have been associated with a transient increase in serum acid phosphatase due to intraoperative absorption of prostate tissue substances. Factors associated with postoperative syndromes include intraoperative absorption of irrigant solution, intraoperative blood loss, and intraoperative absorption of prostate tissue substance. An animal model was used in this study to determine the isolated physiologic effects of intravenous infusion of a saline prostate tissue extract using an infusion schedule comparable to that of transurethral prostate resection. Twenty-four animals received either normal saline infusion (control) or saline prostate tissue extract infusion (experimental). The experimental group showed a significant decrease in fibrinogen, platelet count, white blood count, activated clotting time, and plasma volume. These results suggest that the isolated effects of intravascular absorption of prostate tissue substances are due to disseminated intravascular coagulation, most likely resulting from tissue thromboplastin and activation of plasminogen.
PRODUCT TRADING — AN ALTERNATIVE TO TRANSFERABLE WHEAT QUOTAS

This note examines the implications of permitting producers to trade wheat amongst themselves. The outcome, in efficiency terms, is identical to that achieved with transferable quotas. For some producers, there may be advantages in product trading that are not available in transferable quotas.
Subassembly generation via mechanical conformational switches

A question is posed on how a particular subassembly sequence is generated in randomized assembly. An extended design of mechanical conformational switches [16] is proposed that can encode several subassembly sequences. A particular subassembly sequence is generated due to conformational changes of parts during one-dimensional randomized assembly. The optimal subassembly sequence that maximizes the yield of a desired assembly can be found via genetic search over a space of parameterized conformational switch designs, rather than a space of subassembly sequences. The resulting switch design encodes the optimal subassembly sequence so that the desired assemblies are put together only in the optimal sequence. The results of genetic search and rate equation analyses reveal that the optimal subassembly sequence depends on the initial concentration of parts and the defect probabilities during randomized assembly. The results indicate that abundant parts and parts with high defect probabilities should be assembled earlier rather than later.
The Theoretical Constitution of Metallic Lithium

On the basis of previous theoretical developments concerning the nature of cohesion in metals which were applied to sodium, a treatment of metallic lithium is presented. As before, the system of Fock equations are solved by an indirect procedure as a start. These solutions differ appreciably from those for sodium in several important respects and account for a greater percentage of the observed binding energy than in the latter case. The modification of the exchange energy of the electrons arising from these differences is computed. Finally, the work of Wigner on correlation energies of metal electrons is applied directly to obtain a final binding energy of 34 kg.cal. as compared with the observed value of 38.9. The lattice constant is found to agree with the observed one to within about three percent. Some general remarks concerning the applicability of the present development to solids other than metals are made.
Mouse Ly49G2+ NK cells dominate early responses during both immune reconstitution and activation independently of MHC

Natural killer (NK) cell subsets can be defined by the differential expression of inhibitory receptors for MHC class I molecules. Early after congenic HSCT, we found that Ly49G2high single-positive NK cells repopulated, displayed an activated phenotype, and were highly cytolytic. Over time, this subset was replaced with NK cells with a normal pattern of Ly49 expression. Treatment of mice with IL-2 also resulted in the rapid expansion of these Ly49G2high single-positive NK cells. Only the Ly49g (Klra7) Pro1 transcript was highly induced in both HSCT- and IL-2–treated recipients. MHC-independent expansion of the Ly49G2+ subset was also observed after Listeria monocytogenes or mouse cytomegalovirus infection. Our data indicate that during reconstitution after HSCT and various activation stimuli, Ly49G2+ NK cells represent the “first-responder” NK cells, which occur independently of NK-cell licensing via Ly49-MHC interactions. These data suggest that the inhibitory Ly49G2 receptor represents an activation marker on mouse NK cells under various conditions.
TEST OF A MULTISTAGE MODEL OF DISTAL AND PROXIMAL ANTECEDENTS OF LEADER PERFORMANCE

The authors developed and tested a multistage model of distal and proximal predictors of leader performance in an effort to shed greater light on the intermediate linkages between broad leader traits and performance. Predictor and criterion data were obtained from 471 noncommissioned officers in the U.S. Army. A model with cognitive ability and 3 of the Big 5 personality factors as distal antecedents, leadership experiences and motivation to lead as semidistal antecedents, and the knowledge, skills, and ability (KSAs) to lead as proximal antecedents of leader performance provided a good fit to the data. More specifically, the effects of the distal and semidistal antecedents on leader performance were partially mediated by more proximal variables, whereas leader KSAs demonstrated a relatively strong, direct influence on performance. The 1 exception was that Conscientiousness—a hypothesized distal antecedent—had a notable direct effect on leader performance. The implications of these findings for leadership research and practice are discussed.
Investigation of human exposure to triclocarban after showering and preliminary evaluation of its biological effects.

The antibacterial soap additive triclocarban (TCC) is widely used in personal care products. TCC has a high environmental persistence. We developed and validated a sensitive online solid-phase extraction-LC-MS/MS method to rapidly analyze TCC and its major metabolites in urine and other biological samples to assess human exposure. We mea- sured human urineconcentrations 0-72 haftershowering with a commercial bar soap containing 0.6% TCC. The major route of renal elimination was excretion as N-glucuronides. The absorption was estimated at 0.6% of the 70 ( 15 mg of TCC in the soap used. The TCC-N-glucuronide urine concentration varied widely among the subjects, and continuous daily use of the soap led to steady state levels of excretion. In order to assess potential biological effects arising from this exposure, we screened TCC for the inhibition of human enzymes in vitro. We demonstrate that TCC is a potent inhibitor of the enzyme soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH), whereas TCC's major metabolites lack strong inhibitory activity. Topical administration of TCC at similar levels to rats in a preliminary in vivo study, however, failed to alterplasmabiomarkersofsEHactivity.OveralltheanalyticalstrategydescribedhererevealedthatuseofTCCsoapcausesexposure levels that warrant further evaluation.
Education for breast self-examination: Why, who, what, and how?

Analysis of the continuing controversy about the value and effectiveness of breast self-examination is provided and suggestions are made about the kinds of data needed to establish it's effectiveness. Research data about characteristics of women who perform breast self-examination regularly and those who do not and about the usefulness of mass communication, group efforts, and individual approaches to obtain regular and correct self-examination are assessed. Research and educational efforts focusing on six activities are needed: (a) obtaining regular and correct breast self-examination practice by women, (b) reducing delay by women after suspicious findings, (c) teaching physicians to do correct breast examinations, (d) reducing delay by physicians in referring suspicious cases to surgeons, (e) reducing women's delay after referral, and (f) teaching surgeons to do breast examinations correctly and reducing their delay in beginning treatment. Most of the research reported deals with regularity of breast self-exam, while some deals with correctness. The only intraindividual variables that have differentiated consistently among regular and less-regular BSE practitioners have been knowledge and confidence of ability. Very little research has been carried out on the other five activities and is therefore sorely needed. Suggestions for desirable educational efforts in each of these six areas are made.
Interactive 3-D Patient-Image Registration

A method has been developed which allows accurate registration of 3D image data sets of the head, such as CT or MRI, with with the anatomy of the actual patient. Once registration is accomplished, the patient and image spaces may be interactively explored, and any point or volume of interest in either space instantly transformed to the other. This paper demonstrates the use of this technology in accurately transferring radiation therapy treatment plans from the 3D image space in which they are simulated, to the physical patient. This provides a heretofore missing objective link between 3D image-based simulations and actual treatment delivery.
Comprehensive modeling of ionic polymer-metal composite actuators based upon variable surface resistance and underlying physics of the polymer membrane

In this study, we theoretically predict and experimentally investigate the electro-mechanical response of the IPMC actuator. A physical model of IPMC actuator is proposed. The model combines the effect of surface resistance change during the deformation and the physics of the polymer membrane. IPMC samples were prepared and experiments were performed to test the samples. The results show that the theoretical model can accurately predict the actuating performance of IPMC. Current study may be beneficial for the comprehensive understanding of the surface electrode effect on the IPMC actuator.
Three challenges for IS

The purpose of this article is to discuss three challenges that face the IS academic community. Specifically, these challenges are:• Keeping up• Remote learning• Electronic publishingThese three challenges were selected because they are little discussed in our field, yet they are interrelated and they affect most of the readers of DATA BASE. Of course, they are not the only challenges the IS field faces. However, others such as, for example, electronic commerce are well discussed elsewhere.In this article, we first examine each of the three challenges and discuss how they affect the IS academic profession and IS practice. We then discuss what IS professionals can do to meet them and what they will gain as a field by resolving them.
Parallel processing: a smart compiler and a dumb machine

Multiprocessors and vector machines, the only successful parallel architectures, have coarse-grained parallelism that is hard for compilers to take advantage of. We've developed a new fine-grained parallel architecture and a compiler that together offer order-of-magnitude speedups for ordinary scientific code.
Lipotoxicity in the pathogenesis of obesity-dependent NIDDM: Genetic and clinical implications

We review evidence that increased tissue levels of fatty acyl CoA cause the beta-cell abnormalities of nondiabetic obesity and ultimately result in obesity-dependent diabetes. Nondiabetic obesity in Zucker rats is characterized by hypersecretion of insulin at normal fasting and subfasting glucose concentrations. This is a result of beta-cell hyperplasia and increased low Km glucose usage and oxidation. These abnormalities, the hyperinsulinemia, the hyperplasia of beta-cells, i.e., its in vitro equivalent, enhanced bromodeoxyuridine incorporation, and the increased low Km glucose usage can be induced by culturing normal islets with 2 mmol/l free fatty acids (FFAs). Once obese Zucker diabetic fatty rats become diabetic, glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) is absent and beta-cell GLUT2 reduced. Islet triglyceride (TG) content is increased 10-fold, probably reflecting increased FFA delivery (plasma FFA levels > 1.5 mmol/l) beginning about 2 weeks before the onset of diabetes. These beta-cell abnormalities, GSIS loss, GLUT2 loss, and TG accumulation, are prevented by reducing plasma FFAs by caloric restriction and by nicotinamide injection. The loss of GSIS and the accumulation of TGs, but not the GLUT2 loss, can be induced in vitro in normal islets cultured in a 2 mmol/l FFA-containing medium, but prediabetic islets seem far more vulnerable to FFA-induced functional impairment and TG accumulation. It is proposed that in uncomplicated obesity, increased lipid availability (FFA levels < 1.5 mmol/l) induces both hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance in parallel fashion, thereby maintaining normoglycemia.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Aircraft failure detection and identification using neural networks

In this paper, a neural network is proposed as an approach to the task of failure detection following damage to an aerodynamic surface of an aircraft flight control system. Several drawbacks of other failure detection techniques can be avoided by taking advantage of the flexible learning and generalization capabilities of a neural network. This structure, used for state estimation purposes, can be designed and trained on line in flight and generates a residual signal indicating the damage as soon as it occurs. From an analysis of the cross-correlation functions between some key state variables, the identification of the damage type can also be achieved. The results of a nonlinear numerical simulation for a damaged control surface are reported and discussed.
Okra, potential multiple-purpose crop for the temperate zones and tropics

Immature okra pods are commonly consumed as a vegetable. In addition, okra has attributes that could permit it to be used for other purposes. Leaves, buds, and flowers are edible; dried seeds could provide oil, protein, vegetable curd and a coffee additive or substitute. Foliage could be used for biomass, and the dried stems could serve as a source of paper pulp or fuel. The possible gossypol and cyclopropenoid contents of okraseed must be considered when food or feed use for monogastrates is contemplated. Although little development work has been done with okra, available germ plasm appears to be sufficiently diverse to permit genetic improvement.
Factors in Improved Survival from Paediatric Cancer

In 1998, over two-thirds of children diagnosed with cancer will be cured of their disease. This has been accomplished by improvements in understanding the biology of the various forms of cancer and stratifying protocol-based therapies (surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy) based on predicted treatment outcome and risk of treatment failure. The excellent prognosis of subgroups of malignancies, including acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, Hodgkin's disease, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and Wilms' tumour, has led to the modification of therapies to decrease or minimise long term adverse effects which may have a significant impact on the quality of life of survivors. The lessons learned from the treatment of paediatric cancer may lead to improvements in the treatment of adult cancers.
Adult forms of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are expressed in the absence of nerve during differentiation of a mouse skeletal muscle cell line

Abstract Changes in the functional properties of acetylcholine receptor (AchR) channels were followed in the C2 muscle cell line over the period of 1 to 17 days following myotube formation. Up to 1 week after myotube formation, the predominant class of channel exhibited low (45 pS) conductance and long mean channel open time (14 msec), characteristic of the major type of AchR in embryonic skeletal muscle. Three additional Ach-activated currents with conductances lower than 45 pS and long channel open times were also observed. Seven to 10 days following myotube formation, channels of 45 pS and 65 pS and short (2-6 msec) mean open duration were observed, characteristic of receptor channels in adult muscle. Increases in ϵ subunit mRNA levels preceded the functional expression of channels with brief open durations. Our results show that C2 muscle cells maintained in culture express a full range of functionally distinct AchR types in the absence of nerve.
Factors influencing the distribution, abundance and growth of Lyngbya wollei in central Florida

Abstract Fifteen sites in the Kings Bay/Crystal River estuarine system, Florida, were sampled over 1 year to determine the spatial and temporal distribution and abundance of the filamentous blue-green alga, Lyngbya wollei (Farlow ex Gomont) Speziale and Dyck. Monthly biomass (dry weight) of benthic Lyngbya mats was constant at approximately 1 kg m −2 during most of the year, but it decreased from April to July when large mats were observed floating on the water surface. Multiple regression analyses showed that Lyngbya biomass was correlated negatively with conductivity and alkalinity; this is consistent with L. wollei being primarily a freshwater species. In regions of the bay with higher salinities, the vascular macrophyte, Hydrilla verticallata (L.f.) Royle, prevailed. Nutrient influences appeared to be small even though the northeast portion of Kings Bay/Crystal River has high concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorus and calcium. Controlled laboratory studies were conducted to determine the effects of pH, salinity, and nutrients on growth of L. wollei . Optimal growth occurred at a pH of 8.0 and a salinity of 0 ppt (g 1 −1 ); salinities in excess of 5.25 ppt killed more than 99% of the cells within 2 weeks. Growth of Lyngbya from five Kings Bay stations in six nutrients sources (spring water, NO 3 N, NH 4 N, PO 4 P, NO 3 N + PO 4 P, and NH 4 N, + PO 4 P) did not differ among stations, and nutrients additions produced no increases over spring water. Addition of Ca 2+ increased growth of L. wollei at low and intermediate concentrations of nitrogen and/or phosphorus; this partially explains why spring water, derived from the limestone aquifer, produces such good growth of Lyngbya .
Savings–investment dynamics in Mexico

Abstract This study examines the savings–investment relationship and the adjustment of the current account for Mexico over the period 1960–2002. Though savings and investment are cointegrated, the error correction model exhibits structural instability with the onset of the LDC debt crisis in the early 1980s. The inclusion of interactive dummy variables reveals that the current period-pass through of savings to investment is negative and statistically significant in the post-1982 period. This result parallels the results reported by Dooley, M., Frankel, J., & Mathieson, D. J. (1987). International capital mobility: What do saving-investment correlations tell us? IMF Staff Papers, 34, 503–530 and Jansen, W. J., & Schulze, G. G. (1996). Theory-based measurements of the saving-investment correlation with an application to Norway. Economic Inquiry, 34(1), 116–132.
Choices and constraints: research goals and approaches in information retrieval (part 1)

All research projects begin with a goal, for instance to describe search behavior, to predict when a person will enter a second query, or to discover which IR system performs the best. Different research goals suggest different research approaches, ranging from field studies to lab studies to online experimentation. This tutorial will provide an overview of the different types of research goals, common evaluation approaches used to address each type, and the constraints each approach entails. Participants will come away with a broad perspective of research goals and approaches in IR, and an understanding of the benefits and limitations of these research approaches. The tutorial will take place in two independent, but interrelated parts, each focusing on a unique set of research approaches but with the same intended tutorial outcomes. These outcomes will be accomplished by deconstructing and analyzing our own published research papers, with further illustrations of each technique using the broader literature. By using our own research as anchors, we will provide insight about the research process, revealing the difficult choices and trade-offs researchers make when designing and conducting IR studies.
Medical, law, and business students' perceptions of the changing health care system

An unanswered question in previous research on attitudes to health care systems is whether the values held by medical students are unique to them or simply a cohort phenomenon. This study addresses this by measuring values and attitudes on entry to medical school, and comparing them with two other groups whose academic standing at entry and social status are likely to be comparable business and law students. In this paper four substantive areas are dealt with: managed care, cost controls such as rationing, access to care. and the role of the federal government in regulating health care. There was a high level of agreement between the three groups that society should provide health care to all citizens, and that individuals should have appropriate access. There was also a general preference for being treated in a fee-for-service setting. Some differences were that medical students held more negative views about managed care than some of the others. The students tended to disagree on cost controls, particularly on issues that might impact on their own professions. Medical students were more restrictive than others on concepts of rationing health care and with regard to high tech procedures. Thus the results reflect areas of extensive agreement, but also the fact that even at entry students may differ on issues that are likely to have an economic impact on their careers. The relationship of these attitudes to the changing health care system and to theories about professionalism and the state is discussed.
Excessive glutamate as an inhibitor of excitatory transmission in rat hippocampal slice

Abstract Exposure of rat hippocampal slices to perfusate containing 1–2 mM glutamate (GLU) induces reversible and relatively selective blockade of excitatory transmission. Intracellular recordings from 20 region CA1 hippocampal cells demonstrated only transient and mild effects on resting membrane properties and action potentials. In contrast, in 2 mM GLU excitatory postsynaptic potentials declined to 28% of control ( P
Ferredoxins in light- and dark-grown photosynthetic cells with special reference to Rhodospirillum rubrum

Two different ferredoxins (type I and type II) were isolated from photosynthetically grown Rhodospirillum rubrum cells. Type I had 6 non-heme irons and 6 acidlabile sulfides and an absorption ratio A385nm/A280nm = 0.72; type II had 2 non-heme irons and 2 acid-labile sulfides and an absorption ratio A385nm/A280nm = 0.52. The ferredoxins differed in amino acid composition and molecular weight (type I, 8700; type II, 7500). R. rubrum cells grown heterotrophically in the dark yielded type II ferredoxin; type I ferredoxin accompanied type II only when the cells were grown in the light. By comparison, spinach seedlings had only one type of ferredoxin whether germinated in the light or in the dark. R. rubrum appears to be the first organism from which two types of ferredoxin (one formed only in the light) were isolated. R. rubrum ferredoxin type II is the first instance of a ferredoxin from a photosynthetic bacterium that has a bacterial type absorption spectrum but a non-heme iron and labile sulfide content (two of each per mole) that is characteristic of plant ferredoxins.
Electronuclear physics with spin

Abstract The use of spin observables in intermediate energy electron scattering is reviewed. Results and status of the first generation experiments and new developments are summarized.
The metabolic syndrome as a risk factor in simultaneous kidney-pancreas transplantation.

Simultaneous kidney–pancreas transplantation (SKPT) is the preferred treatment for patients with diabetes and end-stage diabetic nephropathy. Both immunologic and non-immunologic factors can affect patient outcome after SKPT. In this Viewpoint, the role of the metabolic syndrome as a risk factor for chronic renal transplant dysfunction is discussed.
Connector performance analysis for D-shaped multi-core multi mode fiber

Investigation of connector performance for D-shaped multi-core MMF found that worst case equivalent connector offset >5.5m is possible with >2dB loss. Statistical simulations indicate that with proper launch conditions less than 0.75dB loss is possible.
Clearing Radiation Darkened TV Lenses

The TV lenses used in high radiation areas here at the Zero Gradient Synchrotron (ZGS) become very brown and totally unusable within a short period of time. A method has been found whereby rotation of lenses from this area to exposure by UV light can keep a constant supply of usable lenses in service. Tests were also conducted on ZGS TV viewing ports to determine the clearing effect of UV on 3/4-in, 1-in, and 4-in-thick plate glass.
A Total Synthesis of FK-5061

A total synthesis of FK-506 (1) is presented. The synthesis features a highly convergent approach utilizing a block coupling strategy. Top and bottom half sections of the molecule are coupled by addition of a vinyl cuprate with a spiroenone. The alpha-allyl aldol functionality is revealed by a reductive opening of the spiroenone system. The labile alpha,beta-diketoamide hemiketal portion of the molecule is prepared by a late stage generation and oxidation of a masked enediol. Top and bottom half segments are themselves derived by coupling of smaller subunits, resulting in a very convergent route.
Protecting personal information using Generally Accepted Privacy Principles (GAPP) and Continuous Control Monitoring to enhance corporate governance

The first decade of the new millennium may well become known as the era of data breaches. In a recent speech given by the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) Chief Privacy Officer, Marc Groman, he emphasised to the National Association of Secretaries of States to prepare well because ‘you will have a data breach’ (Washington, DC, 18th February, 2008). This article discusses the present privacy crisis and offers a solution to managing and reducing privacy risk through the use of the AICPA/CICA's Generally Accepted Privacy Principles (GAPP). When the court of public opinion or the FTC is grilling an organisation regarding a data breach, the best defence for the organisation is to provide evidence, such as adherence to GAPP criteria or an actual GAPP audit, that they were diligent and serious about data protection policies. Recently, the Chair of Her Majesty's Revenue & Customs in the UK resigned after 25 million Britons had their personal information compromised and the investigation revealed that a mere $102,000 spent on data redaction would have prevented the snafu (see references 1 and 2). Top management, including CEOs, CFOs, CISOs, and CPOs all need to be aware of privacy risk management issues and techniques to reduce privacy risk. Researchers need to help advance the development and measurement of privacy-enhancing techniques and the implementation of GAPP in order to help move organisations along the Privacy Maturity Model. This article is written by a member of the AICPA's Privacy Task Force and a Certified Information Privacy Professional.
9.3.0 On the Transition of a Legacy System to a New System (Upgraded or Otherwise)

There are a number of approaches for dealing with the transition from a legacy system to its replacement (whether a new start or an upgrade). These include systems engineering with precedented systems, unprecedented systems, reused systems, reengineered systems, and systems engineering with COTS products. This paper will discuss the special needs associated with integration due to each of these approaches and their combinations. It will also discuss the considerations that would be involved in determining whether it would be more appropriate to use one of these approaches to the exclusion of the others and the specific role of systems integration in this. Furthermore, an approach is suggested for the planning effort that will, when completed, lead to the engineering of a system involving some mix of these components.
Transition-rate theory for nongradient drift fields.

Classical transition-rate theory provides analytic techniques for computing the asymptotics of a weakly perturbed particle's mean residence time in the basin of attraction of a metastable state. If the dynamics of the particle are derivable from a potential, it typically escapes over a saddle point. In the nonpotential case exit may take place over an unstable point instead, leading to unexpected phenomena. These may include an anomalous pre-exponential factor, with a continuously varying exponent, in the residence time asymptotics
Adoptive immunotherapy of established tumors. Acquisition of radioresistance by tumor-specific T cells after passive transfer into tumor-bearing recipients

The present study was undertaken to determine the sensitivity to ionizing irradiation of T cells from mice immunized against the Meth-A fibrosarcoma and P815 mastocytoma after the transfer of these cells into tumor-bearing recipients. It was found that T cells from memory-immune donors were destroyed by exposing recipients to 500 rad of gamma irradiation up to 48 hr after transfer of the cells, but not thereafter. In contrast, activated immune cells were resistant to irradiation immediately after transfer. T cells were considered to be actively immune if they were harvested from donors in the process of rejecting their tumor, and were replicating, as evidenced by sensitivity to vinblastine. Memory-immune cells, on the other hand, were T cells that were harvested long after rejection of the immunizing tumor and were vinblastine-resistant. Additional results showed that CD8+ memory T cells were needed to cause regression of Meth-A tumor in recipients, whereas CD4+ memory T cells were needed for P815 tumor regression. These results support the idea that T cells that mediate tumor regression in this model of adoptive immunotherapy are radiosensitive while resting, and radioresistant after becoming activated. This knowledge needs to be taken into account when considering ionizing radiation as an immunomodulating agent for tumor immunotherapy.
In vivo tracking of tumor-specific T cells

Novel immunologic assays now enable visualization of the antigen-specific response to an extent not previously possible. Assessment of not only the numeric frequency but also the functional properties of individual tumor-specific T cells in the endogenous and manipulated immune response has provided insights that will facilitate the development of immunotherapeutic strategies.
Modification of solid propellant deflagration rates due to random nonhomogeneities

A nonlinear response theory is employed to obtain the modification of the mean burning rate of a nonhomogeneous solid propellant. Although the methods used here are quite general, attention is focused on the interaction between the three-dimensional structure of the deflagration and the constitutive model. Based on a calculation of the mean burning rate as a function of the correlation length of a random nonhomogeneity, it is shown that the mean burning rate is greater than that of homogeneous burning for small correlation lengths, and is less for larger correlation lengths. Thus, this study indicates that a solid composed of particles of two different propellants would burn more slowly than their mean rate if the size of the particles were large, and more quickly if their size were small. As many of the methods used here are new to this application, some comment is also made on the utility of this approach in computing mean burning rate statistics for random media.
Host influences on sex ratio, longevity, and egg load of two Metaphycus species parasitic on soft scales: implications for insectary rearing

Metaphycus flavus (Howard) and M. stanleyi Compere (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) are currently being screened for use as augmentative biological control agents of citrus-infesting soft scales (Homoptera: Coccidae). Two factors were investigated, host quality-dependent sex allocation and local mate competition, which likely influence these parasitoid's sex allocation strategies and are therefore of interest for their mass-rearing. The results of these studies suggested that, under the mass-rearing protocol that is envisioned for these parasitoids, offspring sex ratios in both M. flavus and M. stanleyi are dominated by host quality (= size) influences, but not by interactions with other females. These results indicated that host size strongly influences offspring sex ratios and brood sizes; larger hosts led to more female offspring and larger broods. In contrast, increasing the number of parental females did not lead to fewer female offspring as expected under local mate competition. Additionally, within-brood sex ratios did not vary with brood size; this result is inconsistent with expected sex ratios due to local mate competition. Other results also indicated that host quality was a dominant influence on M. flavus‘ and M. stanleyi's sex ratios. Larger hosts led to a larger size in the emerging wasps, and larger wasps had greater egg loads and lived longer than smaller wasps. However, wasp longevity, and the influence of wasp size on longevity were mediated by a wasp's diet. Metaphycus flavus females lived the longest when they had access to hosts, honey, and water, followed by honey and water, and shortest when they had access to water alone; M. stanleyi females lived longest with honey and water, followed by hosts, honey, and water, and shortest with water alone. Greater wasp size led to greater longevity in females only when they had access to food (honey, or hosts and honey). Finally, other results suggested that both M. flavus and M. stanleyi are facultatively gregarious. Wasp size did not decrease with brood size as expected under superparasitism. Overall, the results of these studies suggested that holding newly emerged females of both M. flavus and M. stanleyi for several days in the presence of an appropriate food source before field release could enhance a female's performance as an augmentative biological control agent. It increases their initial life expectancy following release, and maximizes the females‘ egg load (both Metaphycus species) and resources for replacing oviposited eggs (M. flavus only).
Incidence and Management of "No-Reflow" Following Percutaneous Coronary Interventions

No-reflow is a complex condition associated with inadequate myocardial perfusion of the coronary artery in the absence of epicardial obstruction. It can occur in several settings, including percutaneous coronary intervention, especially in complex thrombotic lesions of native arteries and vein grafts and in primary angioplasty. The causes of no-reflow are not completely understood, and current treatments consist of intracoronary vasodilators, antithrombotic therapies, and mechanical devices (including aspiration thrombectomy catheters and embolic protection devices).
Evaluation of the response to a booster dose of hepatitis B vaccine in previously immunized healthcare workers.

Introduction: Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all healthcare workers (HCW) at risk of exposure to infectious body fluids. However, the absolute duration of protection from immunization is unknown. The purpose of this randomized comparison trial was to determine how previously immunized HCW respond to different booster doses of hepatitis B vaccine. Method: Adult HCW (n=59) were classified by level of hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs), either <10 milli-International Units per milliliter (mIU/ml) or 10–50 mIU/ml. Participants were then randomized to receive a 2.5 or 10 μg dose of hepatitis B vaccine. Evaluation of anti-HBs levels were conducted 10 to 14 days, one month and one year postbooster. Results and discussion: All participants responded to the booster dose with increased anti-HBs levels. At 14 days, mean anti-HBs levels were significantly higher for those with higher levels at baseline (P=0.004) and those receiving the 10 μg dose (P=0.016). At one month, those with higher anti-HBs levels at baseline and those receiving the 10 μg dose were significantly higher (P<0.01 for both). At one year, the increase for the higher dose was no longer statistically significant when examined by itself (P=0.081); statistical significance (P=0.021) was achieved after adjusting for anti-HBs level at baseline. For all participants, the geometric mean anti-HBs level was 2618 mIU/ml at 14 days, 2175 mIU/ml at one month and 88.9 mIU/ml at one year. At all time points the increase in anti-HBs levels represented an increase over the geometric mean baseline level of anti-HBs (7.4 mIU/ml). Hepatitis B immunized adults responded to a booster dose of hepatitis B vaccine from 3 to 13 yr postvaccination series. Data support current recommendations that immunized HCW do not require periodic antibody testing or vaccine boosters.
Actin gene expression visualized in chicken muscle tissue culture by using in situ hybridization with a biotinated nucleotide analog

The chicken muscle tissue culture system has been used for visualizing actin gene expression after in situ hybridization. Cell differentiation is morphologically distinguishable in this system as the myoblasts fuse into myotubes. This differentiation involves the production of large amounts of actin required for myofibrils. The presence of actin mRNA has been observed in cells preserved with ethanol and paraformaldehyde by hybridizing a recombinant plasmid into which a biotinated analog of dUTP was incorporated by nick-translation. The biotin was then detected by using an anti-biotin antibody and a rhodamine-conjugated second antibody. Alternatively, avidin conjugated to rhodamine or avidin complexed to biotinated peroxidase has been used for mRNA detection. The procedure described preserved morphological detail yet is compatible with hybridization conditions and reveals the disposition of actin mRNA during gene expression.
Ion cyclotron waves observed at Galileo's Io encounter: Implications for neutral cloud distribution and plasma composition

We present observations of ion cyclotron waves measured by the magnetic field experiment onboard the Galileo spacecraft at its encounter with Jupiter's satellite Io on December 7, 1995. The waves exhibit highly coherent oscillations, with a period between 2 and 3 seconds. They are left-handed, nearly circularly polarized, and their plane of polarization is nearly perpendicular to the background field. Their power spectra reveal peaks close to the gyrofrequencies of SO2+ and, sometimes, SO+. The waves are interpreted as L-mode waves generated by a gyroresonance of pickup ions, whose source is neutral particles originating from Io. On the inbound leg of the flyby, in regions where the electron density is approximately constant, the observed decay of the wave power with distance from Io roughly follows the expected distribution of neutral clouds. The presence of wave power just above the SO2+ gyrofrequency suggests that there is only a small amount of SO2+ in the background plasma.
In vitro progesterone metabolism in rat submaxillary gland: The formation of 20α-hydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one and other substances

Abstract Rat submaxillary gland homogenates incubated in vitro with progesterone-1, 2- 3 H converted the substrate to several products. Three products, 20α-hydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one, 5α-pregnane-3,20-dione and 17α-hydroxy-4-pregnene-3,20-dione, were characterized by thin-layer chromatography and recrystallization to constant specific activity.
Duration estimates of two information processing components

Abstract Adult humans attempted to make quick responses to the first of two sequentially presented visual stimuli. At short interstimulus intervals (less than about 100 msec) accuracy was impaired by a different second stimulus and this was hypothesized to reflect the activity of an information processing component concerned with stimulus registration. At longer interstimulus intervals (up to approximately 350 msec) reaction time was inhibited by a different second stimulus and this was assumed to reflect the activity of a second component concerned with decision. The stimulus registration component was insensitive to variations in the complexity of the task, while the decision component was found to be greater for a task requiring recognition (is the current stimulus the same as an earlier one?) than for one merely requiring choice (what is the current stimulus?). This functional independence and the sizeable difference in the temporal range of susceptibility led to the conclusion that two distinct information processing components were involved.
The genetic toolbox for Leishmania parasites.

Leishmania parasites cause a variety of devastating diseases in tropical areas around the world. Due to the lack of vaccines and limited availability of drugs, new therapeutic targets are urgently needed. A variety of genetic tools have been developed to investigate the complex biology of this parasite and its interactions with the host. One of the main techniques is the generation of knock-out parasites via targeted gene replacement, a process that takes advantage of the parasites ability to undergo homologous recombination. Studying the effect of gene deletions in vitro and in infectivity models in vivo allows understanding the function of a target gene and its potential as a therapeutic target. Other genetic manipulations available include episomal and chromosomal complementation and the generation of overproducer strains. However, there are also limitations, such as the lack of RNA interference machinery in most Leishmania species and limited options for inducible expression systems. The genomes of se...
Porcelain fused to gold: fixed partial dentures.

Abstract A method of fixed partial denture construction has been described that gives optimum results with porcelain fused to gold. Porcelain, when fused to gold on the occlusal surface, adds to the rigidity of the structure because of its compressive strength. Porcelain on the occlusal and incisal surfaces also improves the esthetics by concealing the gold underneath and providing incisal translucency. The gold bar in the metal casting provides the necessary tensile strength and resistance to torque. The porcelain on the gingival side remains intact because of its thinness and the rigidity of the structure. The gingival side of the denture is always glazed.
Maternal Antenatal Magnesium Does Not Prevent Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) or Severe Head Ultrasound (HUS) Abnormalities in Very Low Birth Weight Premature Infants-Severe HUS Abnormalities and ROP Are Significantly Related

Maternal Antenatal Magnesium Does Not Prevent Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) or Severe Head Ultrasound (HUS) Abnormalities in Very Low Birth Weight Premature Infants-Severe HUS Abnormalities and ROP Are Significantly Related
POSTOPERATIVE PAIN AND ANXIETY A Comparison of Pentazocine alone and Pentazocine combined with Oxypertine in Postoperative Pain and Anxiety

The relief of postoperative pain and anxiety by pentazocine alone, and pentazocine combined with oxypertine (a phenyl-piperazine anxiolytic) is compared in 234 randomized patients. With the pentazocine-oxypertine combination significantly less patients needed further analgesics. There was no significant difference in the few side effects in both groups. There was greater relief of both pain and anxiety in most groups who received the pentazocine-oxypertine combination. The mean pain relief score at 2 hours for observer and patients combined was 1.05 for the pentazocine group and 1.16 for the pentazocine-oxypertine group. The mean anxiety relief score at 4 hours for both patient and observer was 0.275 in the pentazocine group compared with 0.335 in the pentazocine-oxypertine group. However, these changes showed only a trend and were not statistically significant. This combination should prove safe and useful when a postoperative patient is suffering from both pain and anxiety.
Systems Approach to Study of Solute Transport Across Membranes Using Suspension Cultures of Mammalian Cells II: Experimental Procedures and Uptake Studies with Cholesterol

Following the guidelines provided by the physical models derived earlier, sensitive experimental techniques and procedures were developed. Baselines for solute transport studies were established from experiments on the uptake of cholesterol−11C by Burkitt lymphoma cells in culture suspension at pH 7.3 under iso‐osmotic conditions. The experimental data were evaluated by the model involving the rapid equilibration of the solute in the cell interior after permeation through the plasma membrane. The time‐dependent predictions of this model agreed well with the data. Effective permeability and partition coefficients were calculated and found to be inversely proportional to the serum level used. These results are in agreement with the mechanism by which only the unbound cholesterol in the external solution participates in the membrane transport process.
Fibrinogen mediates leukocyte adhesion to vascular endothelium through an ICAM-1-dependent pathway

Leukocyte traffic in immune-inflammatory responses requires regulated adhesion of leukocyte subsets to vascular endothelium. We show that fibrinogen or normal human plasma enhances by 2- to 5-fold the adhesion of cells of myeloid and lymphoid lineage to endothelium. This mechanism is mediated by fibrinogen binding to complementary membrane receptors on leukocytes and endothelial cells. Using an affinity chromatography purification strategy, genetically engineered transfectants, and direct binding studies to the isolated recombinant protein, we identified a novel hematopoietic fibrinogen receptor participating in this adhesion pathway as intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1). Accordingly, a new model can be proposed, in which fibrinogen binding to a variety of vascular cell receptors mediates a specific pathway of cell to cell adhesion by bridging together leukocytes and endothelial cells.
Song sharing correlates with lifetime social pairing success but not territory tenure in the Puget Sound white-crowned sparrow

Imitative song learning in birds often results in the formation of vocal dialects or local song neighborhoods in which males in close proximity share very similar songs. If song sharing confers a selective advantage due to intra-sexual competition or inter-sexual mate choice, song sharing should enhance the singer’s territory tenure or lifetime pairing success. We tested this in a migratory population of the Puget Sound white-crowned sparrow, Zonotrichia leucophrys pugetensis, in which some territory neighbors share whole songs. Song sharing with territory neighbors in the first year on territory did not correlate with territory tenure but correlated positively with social pairing success throughout a male’s lifetime when length of territory tenure was controlled. Thus, song sharing in this migratory population does not appear to confer a benefit in male–male interactions, at least as measured by the length of territory tenure. However, males that share songs do benefit from higher lifetime pairing success. Combined with the data available for other species, it appears that intra- and inter-sexual selection may have stronger effects on song sharing in sedentary and migratory populations, respectively.