cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Superplasticity in a powder metallurgy magnesium composite

Metal-matrix composites (MMC) have great potential to be used in high-performance aerospace and automobile applications. It is important, therefore, to develop secondary processing for MMCs which can effectively produce complex engineering components directly from wrought products. Many studies now have been performed that demonstrate superplasticity can be developed in MMCs. Superplasticity has been reported in some Mg alloys, including ZK60, AZ31, AZ61, and Mg-Li alloys. But, none of these alloys showed superplasticity at high strain rates. Although HSRS has been extensively demonstrated in Al-base MMCs, both in PM and IM products, neither conventional superplasticity nor HSRS has yet been shown in any Mg-base composite. The purpose of this paper is to present, for the first time, the observation of HSRS in a 17 vol% SiC particulate-reinforced ZK60A magnesium composite (ZK60/SiC/17p).
Animate Models of Human Head Injury

ABSTRACT A review of animal models of nonpenetrating head injury caused by mechanical energy is presented that focuses on the ability of various categories of models and their relationships to the types of head injury seen in humans. Basic hypotheses of animal modeling of human disease and outcome measures are addressed. Current models are reviewed and compared for their differences and similarities regarding behavioral, pathologic, physiologic, and biochemical fidelity to human head injury.
Understanding the link between men’s alcohol use and sexual violence perpetration: The mediating role of sexual objectification.

Objective: This study provided a novel consideration of the relations between alcohol consumption, sexual objectification, and sexual violence, because evidence for the links between sexual objectification and alcohol consumption as well as objectification and sexual violence are almost nonexistent in the published literature. We also developed a measure of interpersonal sexual objectification perpetration (ISOS-P) because there are no existing self-report measures of this construct. We hypothesized that these variables would be associated positively and that sexual objectification (including evaluating women’s bodies and making sexual advances toward women) would mediate the relation between alcohol use and sexual violence. Method: To test these possibilities, undergraduate men completed measures assessing their alcohol use, sexual objectification, and sexual violence. Results: Positive relations emerged between alcohol consumption frequency, alcohol consumption quantity, body evaluation, sexual advances, and sexual violence. A path analysis revealed that the combined effect of body evaluation and sexual advances was a significant mediator of the alcohol quantity and sexual violence link. As well, body evaluation was a significant mediator of the alcohol quantity and sexual advances link. Conclusion: This study provides a novel contribution to the literature by developing a measure of sexual objectification perpetration and showing that this construct mediates the frequently documented association between heavy drinking and sexual violence. These findings have implications for the prevention of alcohol-related sexual assault on college campuses.
Serotonin-containing axon terminals in the hypoglossal nucleus of the rat. An immuno-electronmicroscopic study

Abstract The morphology and distribution of serotonin-containing axon terminals in the rat hypoglossal nucleus (XII) was investigated immunocytochemically at the electron microscopic level. Serotonin-positive profiles were found throughout all regions of XII and included unmyelinated axons, varicosities and axon terminals. Most labeled profiles (68.1%) were nonsynaptic unmyelinated axons and varicosities, while synaptic profiles, ending on dendrites and somata, were seen less frequently (28.7%). The majority of labeled axon terminals (76.9%) ended on small-to-medium-sized dendrites. Most axodendritic terminals contained small, round agranular vesicles (20–55 μm), several large (60–100 μm) dense core vesicles, and were associated with a pronounced asymmetric postsynaptic specialization. By contrast, labeled axosomatic terminals were seen less often than those ending on dendrites (23.0%). Axosomatic terminals typically contained small, round, agranular and large dense core vesicles and were associated with a symmetric or no postsynaptic specialization. These results provide the structural substrates for elucidating the functional role of serotonin in tongue control.
Autogenous auricular cartilage implantation following discectomy in the primate temporomandibular joint

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the histologic changes in primate temporomandibular joints (TMJ) treated with autogenous auricular cartilage grafts following total discectomy. Four Macaca fascicularis monkeys underwent bilateral TMJ disc removal and high condylar shaves. One TMJ in each monkey was treated by grafting autogenous auricular cartilage to the glenoid fossa; the contralateral joint served as a control. Monkeys were killed at 6, 12, 16, and 24 weeks postoperatively. Viable auricular cartilage was found in all grafted joints. There was a variable amount of fibrous connective tissue surrounding the cartilage grafts, with some grafts being directly fused to the glenoid fossa. One joint showed significant fibrous connective tissue adhesions between the condylar surface and the inferior portion of the graft. Degenerative changes in the grafted joint appeared grossly to be less severe than in the control joints. The cartilaginous tissues appeared to be a suitable autogenous tissue graft, maintaining its viability and functioning as an interpositioning material between the condyle and fossa.
Screening plasmonic materials using pyramidal gratings

Surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) are responsible for exotic optical phenomena, including negative refraction, surface enhanced Raman scattering, and nanoscale focusing of light. Although many materials support SPPs, the choice of metal for most applications has been based on traditional plasmonic materials (Ag, Au) because there have been no side-by-side comparisons of the different materials on well-defined, nanostructured surfaces. Here, we report a platform that not only enabled rapid screening of a wide range of metals under different excitation conditions and dielectric environments, but also identified new and unexpected materials for biosensing applications. Nanopyramidal gratings were used to generate plasmon dispersion diagrams for Al, Ag, Au, Cu, and Pd. Surprisingly, the SPP coupling efficiencies of Cu and Al exceeded widely used plasmonic materials under certain excitation conditions. Furthermore, grazing angle excitation led to the highest refractive index sensitivities (figure of merit >85) reported at optical frequencies because of extremely narrow SPP resonances (full-width-at-half-minimum <6 nm or 7 meV). Finally, our screening process revealed that Ag, with the highest sensitivity, was not necessarily the preferred material for detecting molecules. We discovered that Au and even Pd, a weak plasmonic material, showed comparable index shifts on formation of a protein monolayer.
A Cost Analysis of Somatostatin use in the Prevention of Pancreatic Fistula after Pancreatectomy

Studies have shown that somatostatin reduces the occurrence of postoperative pancreatic fistula. However, no study to date has analyzed the cost effectiveness of this treatment. The purpose of this study was to analyze the cost effectiveness of prophylactic somatostatin use with respect to pancreatectomy. Review of prospectively collected 2002 patient hepato-pancreatico-biliary database from January 2007 to May 2012. Patients received somatostatin prophylactically at the discretion of their surgeon. Data were analyzed using univariate analysis to determine if somatostatin had an effect on imaging costs, lab costs, “other” costs, PT/OT costs, surgery costs, room and board costs, and total hospital costs. A total of 179 patients underwent pancreatectomy at a single teaching institution. Median total hospital costs were 90,673.50 (59,979–743,667) for patients who developed a postoperative pancreatic fistula versus 86,563 (39,190–463,601) for those who did not (p = 0.004). Median total hospital costs were 89,369 (39,190–743,667) for patients who were administered somatostatin versus 85,291 (40,092–463,601) for patients who did not (p = 0.821). Pancreatic fistulas significantly increase hospital costs, and somatostatin has been shown to decrease the rate of pancreatic fistula formation. Somatostatin has no significant effect on hospital costs.
Heart-Rate Induced Conduction Defects

Scenario: Below are 2 rhythm strips taken from resting 12-lead electrocardiograms (ECGs) for a 73year-old man who came to the emergency department (ED) with complaints of a productive cough, shortness of breath, and chest discomfort for the past week. Leads II, V1 and V6 are shown below and were recorded on ED admission (left) and on the day of discharge (right). His temperature on admission was 103.1°F. He has a history of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and coronary bypass graft surgery. He was admitted to the medical telemetry unit with pneumonia and treated with supplemental oxygen and antibiotic therapy. A regular feature of the American Journal of Critical Care, the ECG Puzzler addresses electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation for clinical practice. To send an eLetter or to contribute to an online discussion about this article, visit www.ajcconline.org and click “Respond to This Article” on either the full-text or PDF view of the article. We welcome letters regarding this feature.
Case-Specific Sociological Inference: Meta-Norms for Expert Opinions

This essay responds to comments on our earlier paper discussing the American Sociological Association’s amicus brief in the Wal-Mart v. Dukes case. We identify areas of agreement and disagreement with the commentators and close with proposed meta-norms that should govern experts who seek to apply social science research to the facts of a particular case.
Main-chain photochromic conducting polymers

The optoelectronic properties of photochromic materials change in response to exposure to certain wavelengths of light. These alterations arise from specific electronic reorganization of conjugation pathways due to photochemically-triggered cyclizations and conformational changes. Polymers with photochromic switches pendent to the backbone retain monomer-like optoelectronic photoswitching responses while incorporation of photochromic switches directly into a conjugated backbone allows for greater, and often more dramatic, influence on the polymer optoelectronic properties. This ability for light-controlled variation of optoelectronic properties has driven research in the field of main-chain photochromic conducting polymers, and recent developments in this area will be discussed.
Numerical Simulation of Gas Turbine Swirl-Stabilized Injector Dynamics

A comprehensive numerical analysis has been conducted to investigate the vortical flow dynamics and acoustic response of a gas-turbine swirl- stabilized injector. The theoretical formulation is based on the complete conservation equations of mass, momentum, and energy in three dimensions. Turbulence closure is achieved by means of the large-eddy-simulation (LES) technique. The compressible version of the Smagorinsky eddy- viscosity model is employed to describe the subgrid- scale turbulent motions and their effect on large-scale structures. The governing equations and the associated boundary conditions are solved by a finite- volume, Adam-Bashforth predictor-corrector scheme along with the implementation of the message passing interface (MPI) parallel computing architecture. Detailed flow structures are studied for two different swirl numbers. Results show that the internal flowfield in the injector is intrinsically unsteady and subject to shear and centrifugal instabilities. The unsteady flow evolution and vortex breakdown are clearly visualized and can be explained on theoretical bases. The unsteadiness may be related to periodic vortex shedding, vortex breakdown and breakup, mode competition, and other phenomena that are sensitive to the swirl number.
Constitution of low carbon U-C alloys

Abstract The uranium-carbon phase diagram at low carbon concentration was determined by saturation experiments, thermal analyses and metallography. The system has an eutectic point of 0.98 at % carbon at 1116.6° C and two eutectoid reactions: U (γ) /ag U (β) + UC and U (β) /ag U (α) + UC , at 771.8° C, and 665.9° C, respectively, 3.0° and 1.8° C below the transformation temperatures of the pure metal. The gamma solubility decreases from 0.30 ± 0.075 at % at the eutectic temperature to 0.09 ± 0.04 at % at the eutectoid temperature. The solubility of carbon in beta uranium is probably less than 10 ppm by weight, in alpha uranium less than 3 ppm.
Determination of the structure of oriented samples using two-dimensional solid state NMR techniques

Abstract One dimensional and two-dimensional MAS techniques can give detailed information about the structure and dynamics of oriented systems. We describe the application of such techniques to the liquid-crystalline polymer poly ( p -phenyleneterephthalimide) (PPTA), and thence deduce the solid-state structure of the material.
A statistical analysis of the effect of discrete mathematics on the performance of computer science majors in beginning computing classes

During the 1983-84 academic year, the University of Scranton instituted an experimental two semester discrete mathematics course for freshman students majoring in computer science. Approximately one-third of them were enrolled in this sequence while the remaining freshmen were enrolled in a traditional algebra-calculus mathematics sequence. At the end of the academic year the records of the freshman computer science majors were examined to see if there was any difference in performance between those who took discrete mathematics and those who did not.There is a strong indication that students who take discrete mathematics make higher grades in computer science than do the students who take the algebra-calculus sequence of courses. There is no indication that students who take discrete mathematics are more (or less) likely to change majors during the freshman year than those who take a traditional mathematics course.
The safety and effectiveness profile of daily teriparatide in a prospective observational study in Japanese patients with osteoporosis at high risk for fracture: interim report

This postmarketing surveillance study assessed the safety and effectiveness of daily teriparatide treatment in patients with osteoporosis in a Japanese clinical setting. In this prospective, multicenter, observational study, patients with osteoporosis at high risk for fracture received subcutaneous injections of teriparatide (20 μg/day) for a maximum of 24 months. For this interim report, data from 1,671 patients were eligible for analysis at the cutoff date. The mean age was 75.3 years; 93 % of patients (1,552/1,671 patients) were women. There were 117 adverse drug reactions (ADRs) reported in 101 of 1,671 patients (6.04 %); the most common reported ADRs were nausea, dizziness, headache, and palpitations. No clinically significant safety issues were identified, although 5 serious ADRs were reported in 4/1,671 (0.24 %) patients. At 12 months, 71.9 % of patients remained on teriparatide treatment. From 1 month, there were rapid increases in the biomarkers of bone formation P1NP and, to a lesser extent, BAP. In contrast, increases in the biomarkers of bone resorption, serum NTX, urinary NTX, and TRACP5b, were smaller. After 12 months of treatment, there was an increase in bone mineral density at the lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total hip, and a decrease in the Visual Analog Scale score for back pain. The incidence of new vertebral and nonvertebral fractures was 1.21 % and 3.18 %, respectively. In conclusion, the favorable safety profile and effectiveness of teriparatide observed in this population of Japanese patients with osteoporosis were accompanied by relatively high persistence with treatment, which is a key factor in the success of osteoporosis treatment.
The glitazones: proceed with caution.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is characterized by the early onset of insulin resistance. Reduced, responsiveness to normal circulating levels of insulin leads to hyperinsulinemia. When the pancreas is unable to keep up with increased insulin requirements, hyperglycemia ensues. This can influence the development of diabetes mellitus, obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia.1,2,3Commonly referred to as “syndrome X,” these complications are associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease. A new class of drugs, the glitazones, offers the first therapeutic option specifically targeting insulin resistance. The drugs act on tissues such as liver and skeletal muscle, sensitizing them to insulin action, and thereby increasing glucose uptake and decreasing its hepatic output.
Stimulation of renin secretion from the intact kidney and from isolated glomeruli by the calcium ionophore A23187

The ionophore A23187 evoked a dose-dependent release of renin from the isolated perfused cat kidney, which was inhibited by calcium deprivation and adrenergic blockade. The latter finding indicates that the effects of A23187 on the intact kidney are mediated mainly by catecholamine release from sympathetic nerve endings. Ionophore also elicited a concentration-dependent enhancement of renin secretion from a pure preparation of glomeruli isolated from cat kidney; this stimulation was still manifest when the glomeruli were superfused with a calcium-free solution. These findings indicate that A23187 evokes renin secretion from juxtaglomerular cells by mobilizing cellular calcium and support the view that an increase in intracellular calcium is intimately involved in the mechanism of renin secretion.
Reducing the effects of auditory and visual distraction on the math performances of students with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Two exploratory studies assessed the effects of an intervention on the math problem solving of students with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). In the first study, students were assessed on a visual task in a high stimulation classroom analog setting with and without the use of a fine motor activity. Results showed that the fine motor activity was associated with more math problems correct. In the second study, students were presented with a visual task with and without auditory distraction. Results showed that the auditory distraction impeded performance but that the fine motor activity mitigated the effects of the distraction. Although the results of these studies are modest, they suggest that fine motor activity may affect the performances of students with ADHD and future research is needed.
Competitive dynamics research: An insider’s odyssey

This paper introduces competitive dynamics research, a body of work that has emerged in the strategic management field over the last two decades. I will focus on my scholarly pursuit—both the substance and the process—during the early years of my faculty career. I will use my twelve core publications written during this period to outline the entire research program, highlight the makeup of each of the four sub-streams of the program, and show how these streams are linked. I will also share my personal learning in the process of building this research program. The paper aims to convey some firsthand experience for researchers and scholars, especially those starting in their careers and international scholars who are interested in publishing in major U.S.-based journals, so they can construct their own research programs and cope with the manifold process challenges in research and publishing.
Federalist No. 10: How Do Factions Affect the President as Administrator‐in‐Chief?

Federalist No. 10 arguably is the most frequently read of the Federalist Papers, in no small measure because it offers a distinct and often negative image of the polity as a source of conflict. It argues that factions cannot be tamed, but they can be controlled. This essay argues that factions have weakened effective public administration and offers a detailed discussion of the proliferation of interest groups and their role in undermining the system of checks and balances.
High Rates of Resolution of Cholestasis in Parenteral Nutrition-Associated Liver Disease with Fish Oil-Based Lipid Emulsion Monotherapy

Objective To determine factors leading to resolution of cholestasis in patients with parenteral nutrition-associated liver disease treated with fish oil-based lipid emulsion (FOLE). Study design Prospective observational study of 57 infants Results Median gestational age of subjects at birth was 28 weeks (range 22.7-39.5). Median conjugated bilirubin level at initiation of therapy with FOLE was 7.5 mg/dL (range 2.1-25). Resolution of hyperbilirubinemia (conjugated bilirubin P = .056). Infants with higher conjugated bilirubin at initiation of therapy (>10.0 compared with P 2 = 0.14, P = .02) and directly with time to receive 100% calories enterally (r 2 = 0.12, P = .03). Conclusions Younger gestational age infants demonstrated higher degree of cholestasis, longer time to resolution of cholestasis, and increased mortality. Higher levels of cholestasis were associated with longer time to resolution. FOLE monotherapy led to resolution of cholestasis in all surviving infants.
Sediment-induced amplification and the collapse of the Nimitz Freeway

THE amplification of ground motion by low-seismic-velocity surface sediments is an important factor in determining the seismic hazard specific to a given site. The Ms = 7.1 Loma Prieta earthquake of 17 October 1989 was the largest event in the contiguous United States in 37 years, and yielded an unparalleled volume of seismic data from the main shock and aftershock sequence1. These data can be used to image the seismic source, to study detailed Earth structure, and to study the propagation of seismic waves both through bedrock at depth and through sediment layers near the surface. Near the edge of San Francisco Bay, site conditions vary considerably on scales of hundreds of metres. The collapsed section of the two-tiered Nimitz Freeway in Oakland was built on San Francisco Bay mud, whereas stiffen alluvial sediments underlie a southern section that was damaged but did not collapse. Here we analyse high-quality, digital aftershock recordings from several sites near the Nimitz Freeway, and conclude that soil conditions and resulting ground-motion amplification may have contributed significantly to the failure of the structure.
C–H activation by a terminal imidoiron(III) complex to form a cyclopentadienyliron(II) product

Abstract Imido complexes of the late transition metals have the ability to activate C–H bonds through the abstraction of hydrogen atoms from hydrocarbons. This paper describes the apparent hydrogen atom transfer from cyclopentadiene (CpH) to the isolable imidoiron(III) complex LMeFeNAd (LMe = 2,4-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenylimido)pent-3-yl; Ad = 1-adamantyl) in the presence of 4-tert-butylpyridine (tBupy). The isolated product is not the amidoiron(II) complex, but instead it is LMeFe(Cp)(tBupy), the result of amido protonation by additional CpH. The crystal structures of both LMeFeCp and LMeFe(Cp)(tBupy) are presented, and in the latter compound the Fe–C bonds are longer than in any previously characterized cyclopentadienyliron complex.
Facile synthesis of carbon-11-labeled arylpiperazinylthioalkyl derivatives as new PET radioligands for imaging of 5-HT1AR.

Abstract Carbon-11-labeled arylpiperazinylthioalkyl derivatives, 2-((4-(4-(2-[11C]methoxyphenyl)piperazin-1-yl)butyl)thio)benzo[d]oxazole ([11C]5a), 2-((4-(4-(2-[11C]methoxyphenyl)piperazin-1-yl)butyl)thio)-5,7-dimethylbenzo[d]oxazole ([11C]5c), 2-((4-(4-(2-[11C]methoxyphenyl)piperazin-1-yl)butyl)thio)benzo[d]thiazole ([11C]5e), 2-((6-(4-(2-[11C]methoxyphenyl)piperazin-1-yl)hexyl)thio)benzo[d]oxazole ([11C]5g), 2-((6-(4-(2-[11C]methoxyphenyl)piperazin-1-yl)hexyl)thio)-5,7-dimethylbenzo[d]oxazole ([11C]5i), and 2-((6-(4-(2-[11C]methoxyphenyl)piperazin-1-yl)hexyl)thio)benzo[d]thiazole ([11C]5k), were prepared from their corresponding phenol precursors with [11C]CH3OTf through O-[11C]methylation and isolated by a simplified solid-phase extraction (SPE) method using a Sep-Pak Plus C18 cartridge in 50–60% (n=5) radiochemical yields based on [11C]CO2 and decay corrected to end of bombardment (EOB). The overall synthesis time from EOB was 23 min, the radiochemical purity was >99%, and the specific activity at end of synthesis (EOS) was 277.5±92.5 GBq/μmol (n=5).
Synthesis of methyl 6-(ammonium 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-α-d-glucopyranosyl phosphate)-α-d-mannopyranoside and use of this compound for the determination of N-acetylglucosamine-1-phosphotransferase

Abstract Methyl 6-(ammonium 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-α- d -glucopyranosyl phosphate)-α- d -mannopyranoside was synthesized and identified by 1H-n.m.r. and 13C-n.m.r. data, acid hydrolysis, and elemental analysis. It was utilized for the determination of UDP-N-acetylglucosamine-1-phosphotransferase in an assay procedure that employed methyl α- d -mannopyranoside as an acceptor. The assay product was identified and characterized by thin-layer chromatography with the title reference compound. The present technique does not require [32P]UDP-N-acetyl-glucosamine, but effectively uses commercially available UDP[14C]GlcNAc.
Hominid heroes through the kaleidoscope

Missing Links: The Hunt for Earliest Man. By J. Reader. Pp.272. ISBN 0-00-216091-9/0-361-73590-6. (Collins/Little, Brown: 1981.) £9.95, $19.95. Lucy: The Beginnings of Humankind. By D.C. Johanson and M.A. Edey. Pp.409. ISBN 0-671-25036-1/0-246-11362-6. (Simon and Schuster/Granada: 1981.) $16.95, £9.95.
Genetic variation in aryl N-acetyltransferase results in significant differences in the pharmacokinetic and safety profiles of amifampridine (3,4-diaminopyridine) phosphate

The clinical use of amifampridine phosphate for neuromuscular junction disorders is increasing. The metabolism of amifampridine occurs via polymorphic aryl N-acetyltransferase (NAT), yet its pharmacokinetic (PK) and safety profiles, as influenced by this enzyme system, have not been investigated. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of NAT phenotype and genotype on the PK and safety profiles of amifampridine in healthy volunteers (N = 26). A caffeine challenge test and NAT2 genotyping were used to delineate subjects into slow and fast acetylators for PK and tolerability assessment of single, escalating doses of amifampridine (up to 30 mg) and in multiple daily doses (20 mg QID) of amifampridine. The results showed that fast acetylator phenotypes displayed significantly lower Cmax, AUC, and shorter t1/2 for amifampridine than slow acetylators. Plasma concentrations of the N-acetyl metabolite were approximately twofold higher in fast acetylators. Gender differences were not observed. Single doses of amifampridine demonstrated dose linear PKs. Amifampridine achieved steady state plasma levels within 1 day of dosing four times daily. No accumulation or time-dependent changes in amifampridine PK parameters occurred. Overall, slow acetylators reported 73 drug-related treatment-emergent adverse events versus 6 in fast acetylators. Variations in polymorphic NAT corresponding with fast and slow acetylator phenotypes significantly affects the PK and safety profiles of amifampridine.
Effect of nitric oxide and carbon monoxide on uterine contractility during human and rat pregnancy.

Abstract Objective: We sought to study the effects of authentic nitric oxide and carbon monoxide on the contractile activity of pregnant human and rat myometrium. Study Design: Strips were prepared from uterine biopsy specimens of 10 pregnant, nonlaboring women at term gestation undergoing cesarean delivery. In addition, rings were prepared from the uteri of pregnant rats at midterm (day 14) and at term (day 22) gestation (n = 10-12). The tissues were mounted in organ chambers filled with Krebs-Henseleit solution continuously aerated with 5% carbon dioxide in air (37°C, pH ~7.4) for isometric tension recording. The effects of nitric oxide and carbon monoxide gases on spontaneous contractile activity were studied. Responses to hemin (hemoxygenase substrate), which produces endogenous carbon monoxide, were also examined. Responses to nitric oxide and carbon monoxide were also studied in aortic and tail artery rings from pregnant rats after contraction with phenylephrine. Results: Nitric oxide significantly inhibited contractility of human myometrium at term (area under the concentration-response curve, 145.36 ± 30.02 vs 40.56 ± 22.81 in controls; P P P Conclusions: Authentic nitric oxide inhibits rat uterine contractile activity at midterm gestation but not at term. However, nitric oxide inhibits human myometrium activity at term. Authentic carbon monoxide does not appear to modulate uterine contractility, whereas hemin may have some inhibitory properties. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 1999;181:981-8.)
Prophylaxis of venous thrombosis

| Mechanical measures such as graduated compression stockings and intermittent compression boots are available for venous thrombosis prophylaxis, but compliance may be limited. Plantar venous pneumatic compression devices have attained widespread acceptance by both patients and nurses because of their comfort and compact size, but their track record for efficacy is poor. Inferior vena cava filters prevent pulmonary embolism, but do not halt the thrombotic process or prevent venous thrombosis. Pharmacologic prophylaxis traditionally has relied upon minidose unfractionated heparin; however, re-examination is warranted in the face of increasingly ill and complex patients. My opinion is that small, fixed doses of once-daily low molecular weight heparin will eventually replace minidose unfractionated heparin as the standard pharmacologic prophylaxis regimen for most surgical and medical patients. Prolongation of prophylaxis after hospital discharge should receive increased emphasis. Most patients being transferred to a skilled nursing facility should receive venous thromboembolism prophylaxis. Similarly, most patients undergoing total hip or knee replacement should receive prolonged preventive regimens, with at least 1 month of anticoagulation. Despite advances, certain aspects of venous thrombosis prophylaxis remain problematic. First, a surprisingly high number of hospitalized patients develop venous thrombosis because of failed (rather than omitted) prophylaxis. Second, many patients in intensive care have a combination of peripheral vascular disease and active bleeding (usually gastrointestinal) that precludes mechanical or phar-macologic prophylaxis. Third, neurosurgical patients undergoing craniotomy for brain tumors suffer a high rate of venous thrombosis and major pulmonary embo-lism despite the routine use of combined mechanical and pharmacologic prophy-laxis. My opinion is that these three areas, in addition to the hospital culture of prophylaxis, should receive increased attention in an effort to prevent venous thromboembolism.
SELECTIVE ACTIVATION OF VH3A10+ RHEUMATOID FACTOR PRODUCING B CELLS BY STAPHYLOCOCCAL ENTEROTOXIN D

Staphylococcal enterotoxin D (SED) is a T cell superantigen which selectively targets alpha beta TCRs bearing particular V beta elements. A second function of SED relates to the preferential activation of a B cell subset characterized by a high frequency of rheumatoid factor (RF) producing B cells. To define the molecular basis of the SED-induced B cell repertoire shift, we have analyzed Ig heavy chain genes in B cell clones expanded after SED stimulation and compared them with B cell clones established in the presence of anti-CD3 stimulated helper cells. Gene segments of the VH3 family were most frequently utilized under both stimulation conditions (42% anti-CD3; 47% SED). Sequence analysis of VH3 gene segments demonstrated that the repertoire of VH3 elements in B cell clones from SED driven and anti-CD3 driven cultures were distinct (P = 0.01). RF activity was closely associated with the expression of selected VH3 elements. B cell clones stimulated with SED preferentially expressed VH3A10, whereas VH26 was the gene segment dominantly used in B cell clones expanded with anti-CD3 stimulated helper cells. The usage of JH and DH elements was indistinguishable in SED and anti-CD3 driven B cell clones, suggesting that SED targets VH3+ B cells through a VH-specific mechanism. Comparison of the closely related sequences of the SED responsive VH3A10 and the SED non-responsive VH26 element suggested a role of a sequence polymorphism in the CDR2 reminiscent of B cell reactivity to conventional antigens. In contrast to conventional antigens, SED can induce differentiation of a high frequency of naive B cells. Thus, this staphylococcal enterotoxin combines selective activation of T cells with selective activation of B cells and might be able to direct T cell help to RF producing B cells.
Measurement of free and bound fractions of extracellular ATP in biological solutions using bioluminescence

Measurement of extracellular ATP in biological solutions is complicated by protein-binding and rapid enzymatic degradation. We hypothesized that the concentration of extracellular ATP could be determined luminometrically by limiting degradation and measuring the free and protein-bound fractions. ATP was added (a) at constant concentration to solutions containing varying albumin concentrations; (b) at varying concentrations to a physiological albumin solution (4 gm/dL); (c) at varying concentrations to plasma. After centrifugation, a fraction of each supernatant was heated. ATP in heated and unheated samples was measured luminometrically. Blood was drawn into saline or an ATP-stabilizing solution and endogenous plasma ATP measured. ATP-albumin binding was a linear function of albumin concentration (3.5% ATP bound at 100 µmol/L to 33.2% ATP bound at 1000 µmol/L) but independent of ATP concentration (29.3%, 10–1000 nmol/L ATP in 602 µmol/L albumin). Heating released the majority of bound ATP from albumin-containing solutions (94.8 ± 1.7%) and plasma (97.6 ± 5.1%). Total endogenous plasma ATP comprised 93 ± 27 nmol/L (free) and 150 ± 40 nmol/L (total fraction). Without stabilizing solution, degradation of free endogenous plasma ATP occurred. Within a physiological range (10–1000 nmol/L), ATP binds albumin independently of ATP concentration. Heating releases bound ATP, enabling accurate luminometric measurement of total extracellular ATP (free and bound) in biological samples. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Design considerations for elastomeric normally closed microfluidic valves

Abstract The ease of fabrication and integration of pneumatic microvalves has enabled extensive miniaturization of microfluidic devices capable of performing massively parallel operations. These valves in their typical open configuration, also known as normally open (NO) valves, require to be actuated to remain closed. As a result, devices employing these valves have limited portability in applications that require valves to be closed continuously. Normally closed (NC) valves based on pneumatic actuation not only address the above issue of portability, but also retain the ease of integrating massively parallel networks of microfluidic elements. In this paper, we report the design and fabrication of elastomeric NC microvalves, along with systematic experimental characterization of NC valve operation. Geometrical parameters of the valve, including shape, fluid channel width, membrane thickness, and valve asymmetry, were examined with the objective of minimizing actuation pressures and ensuring reliable operation. We observed that introduction of asymmetry in the valve geometry created points of weak adhesion between the valve and the substrate, which facilitated opening of the valve at lower actuation pressures. Specifically, valves with a sharp corner feature (v-shaped) actuated at lower pressures (1.5 psi) compared to straight-shaped valves (3 psi). We also observed that membrane thickness does not significantly influence the actuation pressures. An important requirement for microfluidic devices using NC valves is selective irreversible bonding of the fluid layer to the substrate, which we achieved by plasma sealing of the fluid layer to the substrate while simultaneously actuating the valves. Based on our experimental observations, we formulated a set of design considerations with the objective of minimizing actuation pressures, ensuring reliable operation, and facilitating convenient integration into complex microfluidic devices. These NC valves have significant potential in applications where portability is highly desired, such as in on-chip analysis, crystallization screening, and in the study of chemical or biological processes over long durations of time.
Bermudagrass for biofuels : Effect of two genotypes on pyrolysis product yield

Bermudagrass is a perennial grass used as forage for livestock and harvested as hay on 10−15 million acres in the southern United States. It has potential as an energy crop for the production of bi...
Morphine antagonizes U50,488's effects in a squirrel monkey shock titration procedure

To determine whether a μ opioid agonist modulates the effects of a κ opioid agonist in squirrel monkeys responding under a shock titration procedure, morphine was administered in combination with an ED75 dose of U50,488. Morphine (0.03–0.3 mg/kg) did not alter U50,488's early peak effects (15–25 min post-injection), but dose dependently antagonized U50,488's later effects (40–100 min post-injection); these doses of morphine shifted the U50,488 dose-effect curve 12log unit to the right. Morphine still did not antagonize early peak effects of the ED75 dose of U50,488, but antagonized early and late effects of a lower dose. Thus, morphine is a weak κ antagonist in the shock titration procedure. In addition to its low affinity for κ receptors, morphine's κ antagonist activity is limited by its μ agonist effects, particularly in the non-morphine-tolerant monkey.
Computer-Assisted Laboratory Testing

THE laboratory director who sees as his number one administrative problem the damaging and defacing of laboratory equipment by bored students knows only too well the truth of the adage, "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." Closed circuit television cameras, wide-angle mirrors, hawk-eyed student monitors, hourly equipment checks are all desperate attempts to treat the symptoms but have no effect whatever on the cause.
Novel DSA Scheme that Uses Traffic Characteristics to Enhance Throughput Performance of Wide Area Ubiquitous Wireless Networks

Wide area ubiquitous wireless networks, which consist of access points (APs) connected to the fixed network and a great many wireless terminals (WTs), can offer a wide range of applications everywhere. In order to enhance network performance, we need to collect different kinds of data from as many WTs as possible; each AP must be capable of accommodating more than 103 WTs. This requirement can be achieved by employing DSA, a typical centralized media access control scheme, since it has high resource utilization efficiency. In this paper, we propose a novel DSA scheme that employs three new techniques to enhance throughput performance; (1) considering that most terminals tend to send data periodically, it employs both polling-based schemes, i.e. request-polling and data-polling, and a random access scheme. (2) In order to enhance bandwidth utilization effectiveness by polling, the polling timing is decided according to the data generation timing. (3) The AP decides the polled data size according to the latest distribution of data size and polls the WT for the data directly. If the data-polling size can not be determined with confidence, the AP uses request-polling instead of data-polling. Simulations verify that the proposed scheme offers better transmission performance than the existing schemes.
Rapid bidirectional modulation of mRNA expression and export accompany long-term facilitation and depression of Aplysia synapses.

Serotonin (5-HT) and the neuropeptide Phe-Met-Arg-Phe-amide (FMRFa) modulate synaptic efficacy of sensory neurons (SNs) of Aplysia in opposite directions and for long duration. Both long-term responses require changes in mRNA and protein synthesis. The SN-specific neuropeptide, sensorin A, is a gene product that appears to be increased by 5-HT and decreased by FMRFa. We examined whether changes in sensorin A mRNA levels in the cell body and neurites of SNs accompany long-term facilitation and depression. Both 5-HT and FMRFa evoked rapid changes in sensorin A mRNA levels in the SN cell bodies: an increase with 5-HT and a decrease with FMRFa. Parallel changes in sensorin A mRNA levels in SN neurites were detected 2 h and 4 h later. These rapid changes in mRNA expression and net export required the presence of the appropriate target motor cell L7. The neuromodulators failed to produce changes in mRNA expression or export when SNs were cultured alone or with the inappropriate target cell L11. The changes in mRNA expression were transient because mRNA levels returned to control values 24 h after treatment, while synaptic efficacy remained altered by the respective treatments. These results indicate that two neuromodulators produce distinct, but transient, target-dependent effects on expression and export of a cell-specific mRNA that correlate with changes in synaptic plasticity. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Neurobiol 46: 41–47, 2001
A current-limiting device utilizing a switched resistor

Abstract One method of minimizing the effects of faults on a power transmission system is to rapidly insert a resistor in series with the faulted line or with an adjacent feeder line supplying current to the fault. In order to limit the peak momentary current, this resistor insertion must take place in a fraction of a cycle — typically in one millisecond. A current-limiting device of this type has been designed and constructed to operate in series with a 150 MVA feeder transformer supplying power to a 138 kV bus. The switching mechanism is a rotary mechanical switch in parallel with a cold cathode glow discharge tube. The latter device is capable of interrupting kiloampere DC currents, thus permitting current interruption at any point on the AC wave.
Building the vertebrate vasculature: research is going swimmingly.

The vertebrate vasculature develops in remarkably similar fashion in all vertebrates. A cohort of unspecified mesodermal cells differentiates into primitive endothelial cells, which migrate to and occupy positions within the stereotypical blueprint of the primitive vasculature. Once in position, these cells coalesce and form cords, which lumenize and become ensheathed by supporting pericytes and smooth muscle cells. This primitive vascular network is extensively remodeled in some places, and expanded by sprouting in others. Various studies using the mouse, quail/chick, and frog have uncovered a number of signals that guide these complex processes but many gaps still exist in our understanding of the mechanisms by which the embryonic vasculature is built. Because many questions will require in vivo studies to be properly addressed, the zebrafish, with its unique accessibility to analysis by combined embryological, molecular, and genetic methods, should prove invaluable in identifying new molecules involved in blood vessel development and integrating pathways that influence embryonic blood vessel formation. BioEssays 22:882–893, 2000. Published 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
From migrant enclaves to mainstream: Reconceptualizing informal economic behavior

The “informal economy” has developed in sociological theory to refer to clusters of illegal or quasi-illegal activities, usually unreported, by which people in some immigrant or ethnic communities earn income outside regular businesses and jobs. This article first extrapolates a set of characteristics beyond the legal status of such activities that define the “informal economy.” These provide a richer framework for future research and the basis for identifying informal economic activity in other sectors of the legitimate mainstream economy. In fact, informalization seems to have gone from marginal activities to a mainstream movement to make large sectors more fluid, network-based, and less regulated—the informalized economy. Its characteristics are identified. They overlap with the first set but differ principally in terms of extending Merton's proposition that different social structures exert different pressures to engage in non-conforming behavior. The article concludes with policy implications for fostering greater entrepreneurship in marginal migrant communities, and it suggests new ways for economic sociologists to study network transactions in modern corporations of informal economic activity through generative sociology.
Illuminating the switch in influenza viruses

Integrating data from glycan microarrays and X-ray structures sheds light on human adaptation of influenza viruses.
Differences in mortality among bobwhite fed methylmercury chloride dissolved in various carriers

Twelve-day-old bobwhite chicks were fed a diet containing 0, 5.4 or 20 ppm methylmercury chloride. The methylmercury chloride was added to the diet either in a dry, pulverized form or dissolved in acetone, propylene glycol or corn oil. Mortality was measured for 6 weeks, and samples of liver were saved for mercury analysis. Mortality was significantly lower in birds fed 20 ppm methylmercury chloride when acetone was the solvent. The reduced mortality could not be explained by effects of acetone on dietary level of mercury or on uptake of mercury into the body.
TH-A-116-02: Radiobiological Implications of Various Target and Beam Geometry Utilization in Treatment Planning for Intensity Modulated Proton Therapy

Purpose: To investigate how different target definition and beam utilization techniques in intensity modulated proton therapy (IMPT) treatment planning (TP) can influence the radiobiological effectiveness of a deliverable patient plan. Methods: Our multi‐criteria optimization (MCO) IMPT planning system (ASTROID) allows assigning separate target volume for each beam, such as in split target plans. For pediatric chordoma cases, a variety of target sub‐volumes (TSV) were generated by 4mm and 8mm uniform constriction of the original clinical target volume (CTV), and their subtraction from CTV and each other, forming a co‐centric shell structure arrangement. In addition to the original plan, utilizing three beams all assigned to the full CTV, five plans were optimized for the same beam angles but different assigned TSV combinations. To increase the degrees of freedom the original beams were duplicated to allow for TSVs to be assigned to multiple beam‐angles, having a total of up to 9 beams. All plans utilized all three beam angles and single dose prescription to CTV. Dose and linear energy transfer (LET) distributions were calculated by TOPAS (TOol for PArticle Simulation) Monte Carlo system and evaluated via dose‐and LET‐volume histograms and a relative biological effectiveness (RBE) model. Results: While dose variations for the CTV were negligible, mean LET value deviations of more than 30% were noticed among the different plans. For the organs at risk (OARs), variations in dosimetric, LET and RBE values were more prominent. The amount of variation among the plans seemed to be dependent on their volume and location relative to the target. Conclusion: We show that the definition of sub‐targets at the treatment plan optimization level may impact the biological effectiveness of proton treatments.