cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Are We There Yet? Determining the Adequacy of Formalized Requirements and Test Suites

Structural coverage metrics have traditionally categorized code as either covered or uncovered. Recent work presents a stronger notion of coverage, checked coverage, which counts only statements whose execution contributes to an outcome checked by an oracle. While this notion of coverage addresses the adequacy of the oracle, for Model-Based Development of safety critical systems, it is still not enough; we are also interested in how much of the oracle is covered, and whether the values of program variables are masked when the oracle is evaluated. Such information can help system engineers identify missing requirements as well as missing test cases. In this work, we combine results from checked coverage with results from requirements coverage to help provide insight to engineers as to whether the requirements or the test suite need to be improved. We implement a dynamic backward slicing technique and evaluate it on several systems developed in Simulink. The results of our preliminary study show that even for systems with comprehensive test suites and good sets of requirements, our approach can identify cases where more tests or more requirements are needed to improve coverage numbers.
Control of early stages in invariant natural killer T‐cell development

Summary Natural killer T (NKT) cells develop in the thymus from the same precursors as conventional CD4+ and CD8+αβ T cells, CD4+ CD8+ double-positive cells. In contrast to conventional αβT cells, which are selected by MHC–peptide complexes presented by thymic epithelial cells, invariant NKT cells are selected by lipid antigens presented by the non-polymorphic, MHC I-like molecule CD1d, present on the surface of other double-positive thymocytes, and require additional signals from the signalling lymphocytic–activation molecule (SLAM) family of receptors. In this review, we provide a discussion of recent findings that have modified our understanding of the NKT cell developmental programme, with an emphasis on events that affect the early stages of this process. This includes factors that control double-positive thymocyte lifespan, and therefore the ability to generate the canonical Vα rearrangements that characterize this lineage, as well as the signal transduction pathways engaged downstream of the T-cell receptor and SLAM molecules.
The retrotrapezoid nucleus stimulates breathing by releasing glutamate in adult conscious mice

The retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) is a bilateral cluster of neurons located at the ventral surface of the brainstem below the facial nucleus. The RTN is activated by hypercapnia and stabilises arterial Pco2 by adjusting lung ventilation in a feedback manner. RTN neurons contain vesicular glutamate transporter-2 (Vglut2) transcripts (Slc17a6), and their synaptic boutons are Vglut2-immunoreactive. Here, we used optogenetics to test whether the RTN increases ventilation in conscious adult mice by releasing glutamate. Neurons located below the facial motor nucleus were transduced unilaterally to express channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2)-enhanced yellow fluorescent protein, with lentiviral vectors that employ the Phox2b-activated artificial promoter PRSx8. The targeted population consisted of two types of Phox2b-expressing neuron: non-catecholaminergic neurons (putative RTN chemoreceptors) and catecholaminergic (C1) neurons. Opto-activation of a mix of ChR2-expressing RTN and C1 neurons produced a powerful stimulus frequency-dependent (5-15 Hz) stimulation of breathing in control conscious mice. Respiratory stimulation was comparable in mice in which dopamine-β-hydroxylase (DβH)-positive neurons no longer expressed Vglut2 (DβH(C) (re/0);;Vglut2(fl/fl)). In a third group of mice, i.e. DβH(+/+);;Vglut2(fl/fl) mice, we injected a mixture of PRSx8-Cre lentiviral vector and Cre-dependent ChR2 adeno-associated virus 2 unilaterally into the RTN; this procedure deleted Vglut2 from ChR2-expressing neurons regardless of whether or not they were catecholaminergic. The ventilatory response elicited by photostimulation of ChR2-positive neurons was almost completely absent in these mice. Resting ventilatory parameters were identical in the three groups of mice, and their brains contained similar numbers of ChR2-positive catecholaminergic and non-catecholaminergic neurons. From these results, we conclude that RTN neurons increase breathing in conscious adult mice by releasing glutamate.
Isolated Neonatal Swallowing Dysfunction: A Case Series and Review of the Literature

Our purpose was to describe the natural history of isolated neonatal swallowing dysfunction (INSD). Nine infants with INSD are described. Eight presented within two weeks of birth. Symptoms included choking and cyanotic spells with feeds, recurrent aspiration, apnea, stridor, and vomiting. Three had nonspecific neurological abnormalities and were diagnosed later in life with underlying disorders (myotonic dystrophy, CHARGE association, velocardiofacial syndrome). All required tube feeding. Six tolerated nasogastric feedings and received a gastrostomy tube. Three failed nasogastric feeds and required jejunal feedings. The gastrostomy tube was removed in 7/9 at a mean age of 37 ± 9 months. In conclusion, INSD has a good long-term prognosis. The presence of minor neurological abnormalities at presentation suggests another underlying disorder. Nasogastric feeding followed by a gastrostomy is recommended in those without gastroesophageal reflux. Jejunal feedings are necessary in some. While most improve over time, they may need nutritional support for 3 years or more.
Statistical evaluation of design-error related nuclear reactor accidents

In this paper, general methodology for the statistical evaluation of design-error related accidents is proposed that can be applied to a variety of systems that evolves during the development of large-scale technologies. The evaluation aims at an estimate of the combined ''residual'' frequency of yet unknown types of accidents ''lurking'' in a certain technological system. A special categorization in incidents and accidents is introduced to define the events that should be jointly analyzed. The resulting formalism is applied to the development of U.S. nuclear power reactor technology, considering serious accidents (category 2 events) that involved, in the accident progression, a particular design inadequacy. 9 refs.
Demethylation of Promoter Regulatory Elements Contributes to Perforin Overexpression in CD4+ Lupus T Cells

Inhibiting DNA methylation in CD4+ T cells causes aberrant gene expression and autoreactive monocyte/macrophage killing in vitro, and the hypomethylated cells cause a lupus-like disease in animal models. Similar decreases in T cell DNA methylation occur in idiopathic lupus, potentially contributing to disease pathogenesis. The genes affected by DNA hypomethylation are largely unknown. Using DNA methylation inhibitors and oligonucleotide arrays we have identified perforin as a methylation-sensitive gene. Our group has also reported that DNA methylation inhibitors increase CD4+ T cell perforin by demethylating a conserved methylation-sensitive region that is hypomethylated in primary CD8+ cells, which express perforin, but is largely methylated in primary CD4+ cells, which do not. As lupus T cells also have hypomethylated DNA and promiscuously kill autologous monocytes/macrophages, we hypothesized that perforin may be similarly overexpressed in lupus T cells and contribute to the monocyte killing. We report that CD4+ T cells from patients with active, but not inactive, lupus overexpress perforin, and that overexpression is related to demethylation of the same sequences suppressing perforin transcription in primary CD4+ T cells and demethylated by DNA methylation inhibitors. Further, the perforin inhibitor concanamycin A blocks autologous monocyte killing by CD4+ lupus T cells, suggesting that the perforin is functional. We conclude that demethylation of specific regulatory elements contributes to perforin overexpression in CD4+ lupus T cells. Our results also suggest that aberrant perforin expression in CD4+ lupus T cells may contribute to monocyte killing.
Angiogenesis Biomarkers May Be Useful in the Management of Patients With Indeterminate Pulmonary Nodules.

Background Low-dose computed tomography (CT) lung cancer screening is known to have a high false positive rate. This study aims to survey biomarkers of angiogenesis for those capable of assigning clinical significance to indeterminate pulmonary nodules detected through CT imaging studies. Methods An institutional database and specimen repository was used to identify 193 patients with stage I non-small cell lung cancer (T 1 N 0 M 0 ) and 110 patients with benign solitary pulmonary nodules detected by CT imaging studies. All specimens were evaluated in a blinded manner for 17 biomarkers of angiogenesis using multiplex immunoassays. Biomarker performance was calculated through the Mann-Whitney rank sum U test and a receiver operator characteristic analysis. These data were used to refine our previously reported multi-analyte classification panel, which was then externally validated against an independent patient cohort (n = 80). Results A total of 303 patients were screened for 17 biomarkers of angiogenesis. Median nodule size was 1.2 cm for benign cases and 1.8 cm for non-small cell lung cancer, whereas median smoking histories were 25 and 40 pack-years, respectively. Differences in serum concentrations of heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), vascular (V)EGF-A, VEGF-C, and VEGF-D were strongly significant ( p ≤ 0.001) while follistatin, placental growth factor (PLGF), and bone morphogenic protein (BMP)-9 were significant ( p ≤ 0.05) between patients with benign and malignant nodules. Our previously reported multi-analyte classification panel was refined to include interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, IL-1 receptor antagonist (RA), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, insulin-like growth factor binding protein (IGFBP)-5, IGFBP-4, IGF-2, stromal cell-derived factor (SDF)-1(α+β), HB-EGF, and HGF resulting in improved accuracy and a validated negative predictive value of 96.4%. Conclusions Angiogenesis biomarkers may be useful in discriminating stage I NSCLC from benign pulmonary nodules.
Utility of Sodium Hypochlorite for Ultrastructure Study of Bacterial Spore Integuments

Rode, L. J. (The University of Texas, Austin), and M. Glenn Williams. Utility of sodium hypochlorite for ultrastructure study of bacterial spore integuments. J. Bacteriol. 92:1772-1778. 1966.-Spores of Bacillus megaterium are partially dissolved by sodium hypochlorite. Spore integuments become visible during the dissolution, and ultrastructural features may be detected. Three distinct integument types are described for B. megaterium QM B1551 with the use of this technique. Since a variety of microbial cells are affected by sodium hypochlorite, its use may be applicable to ultrastructure study of cells other than bacterial spores.
Chapter 1 Photo Fakery and Forensics

Abstract Photographs can no longer be trusted. From the tabloid magazines to the fashion industry, mainstream media outlets, political campaigns, and the photo hoaxes that land in our email inboxes, doctored photographs are appearing with a growing frequency and sophistication. I will briefly describe the impact of all of this photographic tampering and recent technological advances that have the potential to return some trust to photographs. Specifically, I will describe a representative sample of image forensics techniques for detecting inconsistencies in lighting, pixel correlations, and compression artifacts.
TCR-Independent Pathways Mediate the Effects of Antigen Dose and Altered Peptide Ligands on Th Cell Polarization

We examined the role of the peptide/MHC ligand in CD4+ T cell differentiation into Th1 or Th2 cells using a TCR αβ transgenic mouse specific for hemoglobin (Hb)(64-76)/I-Ek. We identified two altered peptide ligands of Hb(64-76) that retain strong agonist activity but, at a given dose, induce cytokine patterns distinct from the Hb(64-76) peptide. The ability of these peptides to produce distinct cytokine patterns at identical doses is not due to an intrinsic qualitative property. Each peptide can induce Th2 cytokines at low concentrations and Th1 cytokines at high concentrations and has a unique range of concentrations at which these distinct effects occur. The pattern of cytokines produced from limiting dilution of naive T cells demonstrated that the potential to develop an individual Th1 or Th2 cell is stochastic, independent of Ag dose. We propose that the basis for the observed effects on the Th1/Th2 balance shown by the altered peptide ligands and the amount of Ag dose involves the modification of soluble factors in bulk cultures that are the driving force that polarize the population to either a Th1 or Th2 phenotype.
Molecular genetic analysis of phosphite and hypophosphite oxidation by Pseudomonas stutzeri WM88.

The first molecular and genetic characterization of a biochemical pathway for oxidation of the reduced phosphorus (P) compounds phosphite and hypophosphite is reported. The pathway was identified in Pseudomonas stutzeri WM88, which was chosen for detailed studies from a group of organisms isolated based on their ability to oxidize hypophosphite (+1 valence) and phosphite (+3 valence) to phosphate (+5 valence). The genes required for oxidation of both compounds by P. stutzeri WM88 were cloned on a single ca. 30-kbp DNA fragment by screening for expression in Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa . Two lines of evidence suggest that hypophosphite is oxidized to phosphate via a phosphite intermediate. First, plasmid subclones that conferred oxidation of phosphite, but not hypophosphite, upon heterologous hosts were readily obtained. All plasmid subclones that failed to confer phosphite oxidation also failed to confer hypophosphite oxidation. No subclones that conferred only hypophosphite expression were obtained. Second, various deletion derivatives of the cloned genes were made in vitro and recombined onto the chromosome of P. stutzeri WM88. Two phenotypes were displayed by individual mutants. Mutants with the region encoding phosphite oxidation deleted (based upon the subcloning results) lost the ability to oxidize either phosphite or hypophosphite. Mutants with the region encoding hypophosphite oxidation deleted lost only the ability to oxidize hypophosphite. The phenotypes displayed by these mutants also demonstrate that the cloned genes are responsible for the P oxidation phenotypes displayed by the original P. stutzeri WM88 isolate. The DNA sequences of the minimal regions implicated in oxidation of each compound were determined. The region required for oxidation of phosphite to phosphate putatively encodes a binding-protein-dependent phosphite transporter, an NAD + -dependent phosphite dehydrogenase, and a transcriptional activator of the lysR family. The region required for oxidation of hypophosphite to phosphite putatively encodes a binding-protein-dependent hypophosphite transporter and an α-ketoglutarate-dependent hypophosphite dioxygenase. The finding of genes dedicated to oxidation of reduced P compounds provides further evidence that a redox cycle for P may be important in the metabolism of this essential, and often growth-limiting, nutrient.
A Hydrodynamic Explanation for the Anomalous Resistance of Exploding Wires

Wires exploded in air with current densities from 2.5 · 107 amp/cm2to 1.3 · 108 amp/cm2 exhibited a “resistance anomaly,” i.e., the resistance was not a unique function of the electrical energy deposited in the wire but depended upon the rate of energy deposition. The experiment was repeated in nonconducting environments with densities of 1 and 2 g/cm3. The resistance vs energy curve was affected by the greater confinement of these environments in the same way as by faster rates of energy input. It is proposed that inertial confinement of the wire may account for the resistance anomaly.
Characterization of Dahl salt-sensitive rats with genetic disruption of the A2B adenosine receptor gene: implications for A2B adenosine receptor signaling during hypertension

The A(2B) adenosine receptor (AR) has emerged as a unique member of the AR family with contrasting roles during acute and chronic disease states. We utilized zinc-finger nuclease technology to create A(2B)AR gene (Adora2b)-disrupted rats on the Dahl salt-sensitive (SS) genetic background. This strategy yielded a rat strain (SS-Adora2b mutant rats) with a 162-base pair in-frame deletion of Adora2b that included the start codon. Disruption of A(2B)AR function in SS-Adora2b mutant rats was confirmed by loss of agonist (BAY 60-6583 or NECA)-induced cAMP accumulation and loss of interleukin-6 release from isolated fibroblasts. In addition, BAY 60-6583 produced a dose-dependent increase in glucose mobilization that was absent in SS-Adora2b mutants. Upon initial characterization, SS-Adora2b mutant rats were found to exhibit increased body weight, a transient delay in glucose clearance, and reduced proinflammatory cytokine production following challenge with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In addition, blood pressure was elevated to a greater extent (∼15-20 mmHg) in SS-Adora2b mutants as they aged from 7 to 21 weeks. In contrast, hypertension augmented by Ang II infusion was attenuated in SS-Adora2b mutant rats. Despite differences in blood pressure, indices of renal and cardiac injury were similar in SS-Adora2b mutants during Ang II-augmented hypertension. We have successfully created and validated a new animal model that will be valuable for investigating the biology of the A(2B)AR. Our data indicate varying roles for A(2B)AR signaling in regulating blood pressure in SS rats, playing both anti- and prohypertensive roles depending on the pathogenic mechanisms that contribute to blood pressure elevation.
Linguistics, technical writing, and generalized phrase structure grammar

Linguistics has been largely misunderstood in writing pedagogy. After Chomsky's revolution, it was widely touted as a panacea; now it is widely flogged as a pariah. Both attitudes are extreme. It h...
The versatility of inositol phosphates as cellular signals

Cells from across the phylogenetic spectrum contain a variety of inositol phosphates. Many different functions have been ascribed to this group of compounds. However, it is remarkable how frequently several of these different inositol phosphates have been linked to various aspects of signal transduction. Therefore, this review assesses the evidence that inositol phosphates have evolved into a versatile family of second messengers.
A neuron-specific cytoplasmic dynein isoform preferentially transports TrkB signaling endosomes

Cytoplasmic dynein is the multisubunit motor protein for retrograde movement of diverse cargoes to microtubule minus ends. Here, we investigate the function of dynein variants, defined by different intermediate chain (IC) isoforms, by expressing fluorescent ICs in neuronal cells. Green fluorescent protein (GFP)–IC incorporates into functional dynein complexes that copurify with membranous organelles. In living PC12 cell neurites, GFP–dynein puncta travel in both the anterograde and retrograde directions. In cultured hippocampal neurons, neurotrophin receptor tyrosine kinase B (TrkB) signaling endosomes are transported by cytoplasmic dynein containing the neuron-specific IC-1B isoform and not by dynein containing the ubiquitous IC-2C isoform. Similarly, organelles containing TrkB isolated from brain by immunoaffinity purification also contain dynein with IC-1 but not IC-2 isoforms. These data demonstrate that the IC isoforms define dynein populations that are selectively recruited to transport distinct cargoes.
Manumycin A inhibits triple-negative breast cancer growth through LC3-mediated cytoplasmic vacuolation death

Therapy resistance can be attributed to acquisition of anti-apoptotic mechanisms by the cancer cells. Therefore, developing approaches that trigger non-apoptotic cell death in cancer cells to compensate for apoptosis resistance will help to treat cancer effectively. Triple-negative breast cancers (TNBC) are among the most aggressive and therapy resistant to breast tumors. Here we report that manumycin A (Man A), an inhibitor of farnesyl protein transferase, reduces cancer cell viability through induction of non-apoptotic, non-autophagic cytoplasmic vacuolation death in TNBC cells. Man A persistently induced cytoplasmic vacuolation and cell death through the expression of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3) and p62 proteins along with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress markers, Bip and CHOP, and accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins. As inhibitors of apoptosis and autophagy failed to block cytoplasmic vacuolation and its associated protein expression or cell death, it appears that these processes are not involved in the death induced by Man A. Ability of thiol antioxidant, NAC in blocking Man A-induced vacuolation, death and its related protein expression suggests that sulfhydryl homeostasis may be the target of Man A. Surprisingly, normal human mammary epithelial cells failed to undergo cytoplasmic vacuolation and cell death, and grew normally in presence of Man A. In conjunction with its in vitro effects, Man A also reduced tumor burden in vivo in xenograft models that showed extensive cytoplasmic vacuoles and condensed nuclei with remarkable increase in the vacuolation-associated protein expression together with increase of p21, p27, PTEN and decrease of pAkt. Interestingly, Man A-mediated upregulation of p21, p27 and PTEN and downregulation of pAkt and tumor growth suppression were also mimicked by LC3 knockdown in MDA-MB-231 cells. Overall, these results suggest novel therapeutic actions by Man A through the induction of non-apoptotic and non-autophagic cytoplasmic vacuolation death by probably affecting ER stress, LC3 and p62 pathways in TNBC but not in normal mammary epithelial cells.
Crossed-beam spectroscopy of neon: precision measurement of three 20 Ne wavelengths

In a crossed laser–atomic-beam experiment, three 20Ne wavelengths are measured to a precision of 1 part in 109. Our values for these transitions are (2p5–1s3) 6268.228974(6), (2p8–1s5) 6336.180256(6), and (2p7–1s3) 6534.687792(7) A. Our results disagree with previous, less-precise experiments; however, the disagreement can be explained in terms of the isotope shift between 20Ne and 22Ne.
Density Functional Theory Calculations of the Lowest Energy Quintet and Triplet States of Model Hemes: Role of Functional, Basis Set, and Zero-Point Energy Corrections

We investigated the effect of several computational variables, including the choice of the basis set, application of symmetry constraints, and zero-point energy (ZPE) corrections, on the structural parameters and predicted ground electronic state of model 5-coordinate hemes (iron(II) porphines axially coordinated by a single imidazole or 2-methylimidazole). We studied the performance of B3LYP and B3PW91 with eight Pople-style basis sets (up to 6-311+G*) and B97-1, OLYP, and TPSS functionals with 6-31G and 6-31G* basis sets. Only hybrid functionals B3LYP, B3PW91, and B97-1 reproduced the quintet ground state of the model hemes. With a given functional, the choice of the basis set caused up to 2.7 kcal/mol variation of the quintet−triplet electronic energy gap (ΔEel), in several cases, resulting in the inversion of the sign of ΔEel. Single-point energy calculations with triple-ζ basis sets of the Pople (up to 6-311G++(2d,2p)), Ahlrichs (TZVP and TZVPP), and Dunning (cc-pVTZ) families showed the same trend. ...
Human Engineering Requirements for Rapid Prototyping of Operator/Maintainer Interfaces: A Proposed Military Standard

A proposed military standard was developed that establishes and defines the methodology to incorporate the use of rapid prototyping of operator/maintainer machine interface design into the system design process. The specification includes the work to be accomplished by the contractor or subcontractor in prototyping interfaces and evaluating those interfaces under operationally equivalent conditions. The tasks outlined provide the basis for defining, integrating and validating operator interface prototyping methodologies, as well as the software interface. Two data item descriptions were also developed; Rapid Prototyping Program Plan, and Rapid Prototyping Design Approach Document. The Rapid Prototyping Program Plan is the single document which describes the contractor's entire system prototype engineering program, identifies its elements, and explains how the elements will be managed. The Rapid Prototyping Design Approach Document provides a source of data with which to evaluate the extent to which the ra...
Use of recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa) as pre-hospital treatment in a swine model of fluid percussion traumatic brain injury.

Context: Recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa) has been used as an adjunctive therapy for acute post-traumatic hemorrhage and reversal of iatrogenic coagulopathy in trauma patients in the hospital setting. However, investigations regarding its potential use in pre-hospital management of traumatic brain injury (TBI) have not been conducted extensively. Aims: In the present study, we investigated the physiology, hematology and histology effects of a single pre-hospital bolus injection of rFVIIa compared to current clinical practice of no pre-hospital intervention in a swine model of moderate fluid percussion TBI. Materials and Methods: Animals were randomized to receive either a bolus of rFVIIa (90 μg/kg) or nothing 15 minutes (T15) post-injury. Hospital arrival was simulated at T60, and animals were euthanized at experimental endpoint (T360). Results: Survival was 100% in both groups; baseline physiology parameters were similar, vital signs were comparable. Animals that received rFVIIa demonstrated less hemorrhage in subarachnoid space (P = 0.0037) and less neuronal degeneration in left hippocampus, pons, and cerebellum (P = 0.00009, P = 0.00008, and P = 0.251, respectively). Immunohistochemical staining of brain sections showed less overall loss of microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2) and less Flouro-Jade B positive cells in rFVIIa-treated animals. Conclusions: Early pre-hospital administration of rFVIIa in this swine TBI model reduced neuronal necrosis and intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). These results merit further investigation of this approach in pre-hospital trauma care.
A non contact characterization technique of the defect states of high k dielectrics using THz radiation

The effect of high-k dielectric Hafnium dioxide films on 200 mm diameter p-type silicon substrates is investigated and compared with conventional dielectric material, Silicon dioxide, using terahertz (THz) time- resolved spectroscopy and visible pump/THz probe spectroscopy. The interfacial defect density at the Hf/p+ interface was estimated to be 60-100 times larger than that of Si/p+ interface.
Subfecundity and anxiety in a nationally representative sample

Research thus far on the psychological consequences of impaired fecundity in developed countries has relied heavily on clinic-based samples. This study uses a nationally representative sample of American women regardless of fecundity status or treatment status. I analyze reports of fecundity status and anxiety from a 1995 sample of almost 11,000 respondents. The results show consistent positive effects of subfecundity on the odds of fulfilling the diagnostic criteria for Generalized Anxiety Disorder and the incidence rate of symptoms among those who would be so diagnosed, even when controlling for potential confounding factors. Whether a subfecund respondent currently desires to have a child does not moderate the likelihood of being anxious, but does moderate the number of symptoms reported. The lack of a moderating effect of seeking treatment suggests that past research on clinic-based samples is generalizable to all subfecund women.
Snake care and husbandry

The snake has long been a contradictory species; you either love them or hate them. In the United States, these reptiles are popular pets. There is also a significant amount of energy placed into developing captive breeding programs to produce different color morphs for many species. In some cases, such as the ball pythons (Pythonregius), these color morphs can sell for 20,000 dollars to 30,000 dollars each. In comparison to domestic mammals, snakes are long-lived. It is not uncommon for corn snakes (Elaphe guttata guttata) to live for 15 to 25 years and for ball pythons to live 35 to 45 years. Because of the longevity and value of these animals, more snakes are being presented to the veterinarian to manage medical and surgical problems,as well as for routine medical care. Veterinary personnel working with snakes should familiarize themselves with the specific husbandry and medical requirements of these animals so that they can make informed decisions regarding their management.
Naftifine HCl 2 % Cream for the Treatment of Tinea Pedis: A Review

Tinea pedis is a common skin disease that is usually managed with topical antifungal medications. Allylamines, including terbinafine and naftifine 1 % cream, have been proven efficacious and safe in the treatment of tinea pedis. The treatment duration for the majority of topical antifungal is 4 weeks, which results in poor patient compliance and frequent relapses. Recently, naftifine 2 % cream has been approved to treat tinea pedis with 2 weeks of application. We discuss the mechanism of action, adverse events, and clinical efficacy of naftifine 2 % cream.
Dimethylenebicyclo[1.1.1]pentanone

Abstract The highly strained and reactive dimethylenebicyclo[1.1.1]pentanone (I), was prepared as follows. Treatment of 1,5-bis(chloromethyl)tricyclo[2.1.0.02, 5]pentan-3-one diethyl ketal (III) with di-t-butyl hydrazodicarboxylate (VII), followed by pyridinium p-toluenesulfonate and trifluoroacetic acid, yielded the keto hydrazine X which was oxidized to the desired ketone I. The ketone I decomposes very rapidly above −30°C.
THE URBANIZATION OF THE SUBURBS

(1989). THE URBANIZATION OF THE SUBURBS. Urban Geography: Vol. 10, The Urbanization of the Suburbs, pp. 311-315.
The Text of a Whitman Lincoln Lecture Reading: Anacreon's "The Midnight Visitor"

Introduces and presents the text of Whitman's hand-written copy of a selection from Anacreon's "Ode XXXIII" entitled "The Midnight Visitor," used by Whitman in one of his 1879-1890 lectures on Lincoln.
Efficient conversion of glycine to l-serine by a glycine-resistant mutant of a methylotroph using Co2+ as an inhibitor of l-serine degradation

Abstract A glycine-resistant mutant, no. 18, which was not lysed by glycine, was obtained from an l -serine-producing mutant, S395 (temperature-sensitive, O-methylserine-resistant), of a facultative methylotroph, Pseudomonas MS31. The mutant stably produced l -serine from glycine. The properties of the enzymes involved in the synthesis and degradation of l -serine were investigated in the wild-type strain MS31 and the l -serine-producing mutants. Mutant derivation had no effect on the activities of methanol dehydrogenase or serine hydroxymethyltransferase, which are involved in l -serine synthesis. On the other hand, the activity of l -serine dehydratase (SDH), which degrades l -serine, was reduced in the mutants. Cobalt (Co2+) inhibited SDH activity and its addition (6.5 mM) to the l -serine production culture significantly stimulated l -serine accumulation up to 14.9 mg/ml. The results suggest that blocking of SDH is important for the efficient production of l -serine from glycine by methylotrophs.
A semi-analytical solution procedure for predicting damage evolution at interfaces

A semi-analytical solution procedure is developed to predict damage evolution at the interface between two dissimilar geologic materials. The procedure consists of an analytical field solution within each finite element, and a numerical scheme for simulating structural responses. For static problems, an incrementaliterative solution strategy is constructed through the use of an initial elasticity stiffness matrix, and an evolving-localization constraint in terms of a suitable measure of damage at the most severely damaged element. For simplicity, one-dimensional problems are considered to illustrate the features of the proposed procedure, and future research is discussed based on the preliminary results obtained.
Energy in the USA after the President's messages… Likely effects on supply and demand

Abstract On 18 April of this year President Nixon sent to Congress a message containing certain announcements and proposals for dealing with the growing energy crisis in the USA. Two months later, on 29 June, he released a supplementary proposal to increase sharply federal outlays on energy research and development. To follow the reports we published in the June and September issues (pages 65 and 161), two articles analysing these developments have been specially written for ENERGY POLICY by US experts. Changes in investment and balance of payments are discussed by William E. Simon, the Deputy Secretary of the US Treasury, in his article on page 187.
Treatment of Depression with Outpatient Electroconvulsive Therapy

Depression is a common condition that often responds to a variety of treatment modalities. Concerns about antidepressant medications' safety and efficacy and individuals' lack of response or their problems complying with medication regimens have prompted a resurgence in electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for specific mental health conditions. Outpatient maintenance ECT, performed under general anesthesia, is a safe, effective follow-up treatment for individuals with major depression who have undergone inpatient ECT. Individuals with bipolar disorders, catatonia, mania, and schizophrenia and those with Parkinson's disease also can benefit from outpatient ECT. Perioperative nursing care for individuals who undergo outpatient ECT is similar to the care provided to patients scheduled for ambulatory surgery. Successful performance of outpatient ECT requires collaboration by skilled perioperative nurses, psychiatrists, anesthesia care providers, affected individuals, and family members.
Relation between pulsus alternans and transient occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery

Following localized ischaemia and reoxygenation in the intact canine heart, segmental contractile alternans was produced which was associated with pulsus alternans. The evidence of this study supports the view that pulsus alternans was produced by alternate attenuation or deletion of contraction; or alternate deletion and potentiation of contraction.
DISSOLUTION RATE STUDIES ON METHYLPREDNISOLONE POLYMORPHS.

Dissolution rates (DR) of methylprednisolone polymorphs I and II were determined by the rotating disk method as a function of rate of rotation (RR). The results show that the DR-RR relationship differs from that normally expected in the case of diffusion-controlled dissolution from rotating disks. The experimental data confirm the observations by Hamlin, et al. (5), that differences in DR between methylprednisolone polymorphs diminish at higher agitation intensities and indicate that this is due to an intrinsic property of the drug and is not caused by particular apparatus or methodology. From DR-RR data on methylprednisolone I, it was possible to determine the approximate agitation intensities, in terms of rotating disk r.p.m., obtained with five commonly used dissolution methods. These values are shown to be in reasonable agreement with those calculated independently from aspirin and salicylic acid data.
The political culture of independent Lithuania: A review essay

Vytautas Landsbergis, Atgavc viltļ [Having recovered hope] (Vilnius: Saudis, 1990). Vytautas Landsbergis, Atgavc viltļ (Toronto?: Pasaulio Lietuviu Bendinomene, 1991?). Kazimiera Prunskiene, Gintarines ledi ispažintis [Confession of the Amber Lady] (Vilnius: Politika , issues no. 27-28, 1991). Kazimiera Prunskiene, Užkulisiai [Behind the Scenes] (Vilnius: Politika , issue no. 2, 1992). Arvydas Juozaitis, Sņjūdis ir demokrātijā [S^jūdis and Democracy] (Vilnius: Periodika, 1990). Arvydas Juozaitis, Valdzia ir laisv'e [Power and Freedom] (Vilnius: "Žurnalistika," 1991). Algirdas Brazauskas, Interviu Lietuvos radijui [Interviews for Lithuanian Radio] (Vilnius: LKP CK Leidykla, 1990).
Rethinking gender and mental health: a critical analysis of three propositions.

In this paper, we critically examine three propositions that are widely (but not universally) accepted in the gender and mental health literature. First, women and men have similar or equal rates of overall psychopathology. Second, affective disorders like anxiety and depression, which are more common among women, and behavioral disorders like substance abuse and antisocial personality, which are more common among men, are functionally equivalent indicators of misery. Finally, women are more likely to respond to stressful conditions with affective disorders while men are more likely to respond to stressful conditions with behavioral disorders. Our review of previous research shows little to no consistent empirical support for any of these propositions. Results from national studies of overall psychopathology or “any disorder” are, at best, mixed and limited to a narrow range of mental health conditions. A comprehensive test of gender differences in overall psychopathology would require a systematic and exhaustive examination of gender differences across the known universe of mental health conditions, but this may be impossible to achieve due to a lack of consensus on the universe, the proliferation of diagnostic categories, and the tendency to pathologize the mental health of women. There is no empirical evidence to suggest that women substitute affective disorders for behavioral disorders or that men substitute behavioral disorders for affective disorders. There is no theory to suggest that affective and behavioral disorders should be treated as comparable indicators of misery. Some studies support the idea that women and men respond to stress in different ways, but most do not. Numerous studies show that women and men respond to stressors with higher levels of emotional distress, substance abuse, and antisocial behavior. We conclude with seven recommendations to advance theory and research and several general reflections on the sociological study of gender and mental health.
Disc electrophoresis of Ascaris suum female reproductive system esterase enzymes.

Abstract 1. 1. The isoenzyme pattern of soluble and membrane bound esterases, extracted with 1% Triton X-100, of Ascaris suum female reproductive tissues were identified by disc electrophoresis using various substrates and inhibitors. 2. 2. By their behavior to various inhibitors, all esterases of the reproductive tissues appear to be B-type esterases. 3. 3. No C-type esterase or lipase were demonstrated.
The diagnostic and predictive validity of the Renfrew Bus Story.

Purpose Two studies are presented providing evidence indicating the diagnostic and predictive validity of the American version of The Renfrew Bus Story (J. Cowley & C. Glasgow, 1994). Method Thirty...
Novel Synthesis of Cooked Cured-Meat Pigment

Cooked cured-meat pigment was synthesized from bovine blood and a nitrosating agent in aqueous solutions at elevated temperatures. Effects of reductant(s) and base in the reaction mixture were investigated on the yield and purity of the pigment. The best yield of pigment was 95% with purity > 98% in most cases. Absorption characteristics of the pigment were identical to those of pigments extracted from a nitrite-cured ham or from hemin-nitric oxide synthesis. Color imparted to comminuted pork by the pre-formed pigment, upon cooking, and its color stability thereafter, were indistinguishable from that of nitrite-cured meat, yet depended on the myoglobin content.
Combining cues in contour orientation discrimination.

The perceived orientation of a Gabor-patch contour is determined, in part, by shifts in carrier phase between the patches [Popple, A. V. & Sagi, D., 2000. A Fraser illusion without local cues? Vision Research, 40, 873–878; Popple, A. V. & Levi, D. M., 2000a. A new illusion demonstrates long-range processing. Vision Research, 40, 2545–2549; Popple, A. V. & Levi, D. M., 2000b. Amblyopes see true alignment where normal observers see illusory tilt. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 97, 11667–11672]. Here we show that perceived orientation results from the combination of at least three stimulus cues: (1) patch orientation, (2) contour envelope orientation, and (3) between-patches orientation, which is a function of phase-shifts. In a series of three experiments, we investigated how these three cues were combined. The data are consistent with weighted cue combination.
Why is nacre so tough and strong

Abstract In this paper we describe the details of simulations conducted on three-dimensional finite element models of nacre integrated with experiments. This work gives an overview of modeling mechanical behavior in nacre and quantitatively elucidates the specific role of many details of structure in nacre on the stress–strain response. We describe the role of each of the details of nanostructure on the mechanics and deformation behavior of nacre as well as identify the key mechanisms responsible for the unique mechanical behavior of nacre. Nanoscale asperities and mineral contacts have marginal role on mechanical response of nacre and platelet interlocks have a significant role on deformation in nacre. We describe the key strengthening and toughening mechanisms in nacre as: 1. Material properties of aragonite and organic matrix, especially the unique properties of the organic phase in the confined space between platelets. 2. Structure at micro scale: size, shape of platelets etc. 3. Interlocking of aragonite platelets: progressive failure of interlocks guides the fracture path. 4. Molecular interactions at the organic–inorganic interface.
Pharmacologic treatment for urgency-predominant urinary incontinence in women diagnosed using a simplified algorithm: a randomized trial

Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate clinical outcomes associated with the initiation of treatment for urgency-predominant incontinence in women diagnosed by a simple 3-item questionnaire. Study Design We conducted a multicenter, double-blinded, 12-week randomized trial of pharmacologic therapy for urgency-predominant incontinence in ambulatory women diagnosed by the simple 3-item questionnaire. Participants (N = 645) were assigned randomly to fesoterodine therapy (4-8 mg daily) or placebo. Urinary incontinence was assessed with the use of voiding diaries; postvoid residual volume was measured after treatment. Results After 12 weeks, women who had been assigned randomly to fesoterodine therapy reported 0.9 fewer urgency and 1.0 fewer total incontinence episodes/day, compared with placebo ( P ≤ .001). Four serious adverse events occurred in each group, none of which was related to treatment. No participant had postvoid residual volume of ≥250 mL after treatment. Conclusion Among ambulatory women with urgency-predominant incontinence diagnosed with a simple 3-item questionnaire, pharmacologic therapy resulted in a moderate decrease in incontinence frequency without increasing significant urinary retention or serious adverse events, which provides support for a streamlined algorithm for diagnosis and treatment of female urgency-predominant incontinence.
The development of in vitro and in vivo anti-tumor cytotoxicity in noncytotoxic, MOPC-315-tumor-bearer, spleen cells “educated” in vitro with MOPC-315 tumor cells

Spleen cells from mice bearing various sizes of MOPC-315 plasmacytoma tumors were not cytotoxic in the 51Cr release assay or the local adoptive transfer assay. These noncytotoxic spleen cells became cytotoxic, however, upon in vitro cocultivation with MOPC-315 tumor cells. The maximal level of in vitro anti-tumor cytotoxicity (51Cr release) with in vitro “educated” tumor-bearer spleen cells was obtained on the fifth day of the cocultivation and was equal to or lower than the level of cytotoxicity seen with in vitro educated normal spleen cells. On the other hand, the level of in vivo anti-tumor cytotoxicity (Winn assay) achieved with tumor-bearer spleen cells educated in vitro was at least equal to, but usually greater than the level of anti-tumor cytotoxicity obtained with normal spleen cells educated in vitro. Thus, in vitro education can generate anti-tumor cytotoxicity in autochthonous lymphoid cells from tumor-bearing hosts. Such educated histocompatible cells should be useful for immunotherapy regimens that might be applicable to man.
Bibliotherapy as a Counseling Adjunct: Research Findings

Counselors have been prompted to use bibliotherapy, but recommendations for using the technique are rarely based on published research. This article reviews the effectiveness of the technique and is intended to help counselors draw implications for using bibliotherapy in their professional practices.
Metal-porphyrin interactions—V kinetics of cyanide addition to a water soluble iron porphyrin dimer[1]

Abstract The kinetics of cyanide addition to the water soluble oxybridged iron dimer of tetra ( p -sulophenyl) porphin indicate that HCN is the reactant. The rate law is of the form: Rate = (3·8 ± 0·2) × 10 4 (Fe dimer) (HCN)/(1 + (3·1 ± 0·3) × 10 10 (H + )) at 25°, μ = 0·7 (NaNO 3 ). The cyano iron dimer dissociates into dicyano iron monomers by two pathways, one first order in (H + ), and one proportional to (H + )(CN − ) 2 . The mechanism of this dimer reaction is compared to iron porphyrin monomer systems.
Essential hand surgery procedures for mastery by graduating plastic surgery residents: a survey of program directors.

Background This study was designed to establish the essential hand surgery procedures that should be mastered by graduating plastic surgery residents. This framework can then be used as a guideline for developing Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skill to teach technical skills in hand surgery. Methods Ten expert hand surgeons were surveyed regarding the essential hand surgery procedures that should be mastered by graduating plastic surgery residents. The top 10 procedures from this survey were then used to survey all 89 Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-approved plastic surgery program directors. Results There was a 69 percent response rate to the program director survey (n = 61). The top nine hand surgery procedures included open carpal tunnel release, open A1 pulley release, digital nerve repair with microscope, closed reduction and percutaneous pinning of metacarpal fracture, excision of dorsal or volar ganglion, zone II flexor tendon repair with multistrand technique, incision and drainage of the flexor tendon sheath for flexor tenosynovitis, flexor tendon sheath steroid injection, and open cubital tunnel release. Conclusions Surgical educators need to develop objective methods to teach and document technical skill. The Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skill is a valid method for accomplishing this task. There has been no consensus regarding which hand surgery procedures should be mastered by graduating plastic surgery residents. The authors have identified nine procedures that are overwhelmingly supported by plastic surgery program directors. These nine procedures can be used as a guideline for developing Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skill to teach and document technical skills in hand surgery.