cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Content validity and the language of breathing

Objective The study objective was to validate the content validity of natural language words and phrases selected from participant logs as breathing-intensity descriptors. Design and setting A descriptive design was implemented using data collected in a prior study in which the breathing-intensity descriptors had been identified. Methods Content validity was used to rate natural language breathing-intensity descriptors. Six seasoned nurses with a minimum of master’s preparation served as the expert panel. On the basis of a 4-point (0–3) scale, mean scores were calculated for natural language breathing-intensity descriptors. Content validity was established for mean scores greater than 1.0. Results A total of 66 (89%) natural language breathing-intensity descriptors were validated. The experts did not validate eight descriptors that described the lower end of breathing intensity. Conclusions Natural language breathing-intensity descriptors were validated. The highest validation scores were achieved with breathing-intensity descriptors at the upper end of the breathing-intensity spectrum. However, words and phrases that aligned with the lower end of the spectrum generated lower content validity scores. This was an unexpected finding on the full spectrum of breathing intensity that raised questions about differences in language, meaning, and significance between participants and experts.
Linear Elastic Behavior of a Low-Density Kelvin Foam With Open Cells

A micromechanical analysis for the linear elastic behavior of a low-density foam with open cells is presented. The foam structure is based on the geometry of Kelvin soap froth with flat faces: 14-sided polyhedral cells contain six squares and eight hexagons. Four struts meet at every joint in the perfectly ordered, spatially periodic, open-cell structure. All of the struts and joints have identical shape. Strut-level force-displacement relations are expressed by compliances for stretching, bending, and twisting. We consider arbitrary homogeneous deformations of the foam and present analytic results for the force, moment, and displacement at each strut midpoint and the rotation at each joint. The effective stress-strain relations for the foam, which has cubic symmetry, are represented by three elastic constants, a bulk modulus, and two shear moduli, that depend on the strut compliances. When these compliances are evaluated for specific strut geometries, the shear moduli are nearly equal and therefore the elastic response is nearly isotropic. The variational results of Hashin and Shtrikman are used to calculate the effective isotropic shear modulus of a polycrystal that contain grains of Kelvin foam.
Ultrastructure of the dimorphic pollen and stigmas of the cleistogamous species,Collomia grandiflora (Polemoniaceae)

An ultrastructural study of the pollen and stigma of the dimorphic flowers in the cleistogamous speciesCollomia grandiflora reveals significant differences in cytoplasmic features in the pollen and wall features in the papillae. Both pollen types contain lipid and starch reserves, but the smaller CL (cleistogamous) pollen shows a much greater abundance of starch compared to the CH (chasmogamous) pollen. In addition to the papular size and shape differences between the two stigma types, there is a more extensive cuticular stretching and wall microfibrillar loosening over the CH papillar tip. There is no apparent pellicle on the cuticle surface of either type of papilla, only scattered lipidic deposits. It is proposed that these structural differences may contribute to the cross incompatibility between the two floral morphs.
Mechanisms of depression in epilepsy from a clinical perspective

The epilepsies are a complex group of disorders commonly associated with brain dysfunction, social isolation, and vocational difficulty. Each of these factors may contribute to increased prevalence of depressive disorders in epilepsy, but the specific mechanisms are not completely understood. The brain regions commonly involved in various types of epilepsies, such as the hippocampus and amygdala in temporal lobe epilepsy and subcortical nuclei in idiopathic generalized epilepsies, are important components of current models of depression. Increased understanding of mechanisms of depression in epilepsy is not only crucial for improving care of many persons with seizures, but may also yield useful information about principal mechanisms underlying both depression and epileptogenesis.
Planar laser-induced fluorescence of OH in a chemically reacting boundary layer

Planar laser-induced fluorescence of hydroxyl radicals has been performed in a reacting boundary layer with on resolving the complications of performing these measurements in the vicinity of a wall. emphasis Excitation of the (1,0) band of the A2∑-X2Π transition at 282 nm coupled with detection of the fluorescence from the (1,1) and (0,0) bands near 310-nm minimized interference due to scattered light from the flow apparatus. A silicon intensified target detector provided 2-D images of hydroxyl radical concentration in the reacting boundary layer enabling visualization of ignition. Results are shown for the ignition of ethane–air mixtures over heated quartz or platinum surfaces highlighting the utility of the technique.
Field-scale application of flux measurement by conditional sampling

Increasing concerns about atmospheric transport of agricultural chemicals and the diffuse emission of greenhouse gases are motivation for development of accurate, straightforward methods for measurement of trace gas fluxes. A recently proposed hypothesis suggests that the flux of a substance is directly proportional to the product of the standard deviation of the vertical wind velocity (σw) and the difference between mean concentrations of that substance in upward- and downward-moving eddies (ΔC). Reported simulations indicate that the coefficient of proportionality (β) is unaffected by atmospheric stability and may be similar for heat, water vapor, and, presumably, other scalars. This research was conducted to evaluate the validity of this hypothesis and the utility of the method at the farm field scale. The system we developed samples air from the immediate vicinity of a one-dimensional sonic anemometer. There are two sample lines; one is open only when vertical velocity (w) is positive, and the other is open only when w is negative. These lines are routed to a differential gas analyzer, which simultaneously measures ΔC for both CO2 and H2O. A data-logger samples w at 10 Hz, controls the solenoid valves, and computes σw. It also samples a fine-wire thermocouple to allow computation of sensible heat flux by both eddy correlation and conditional sampling. Field tests were conducted in a soybean (Glycine max) field at Rosemount, MN. Two data sets of sensible heat flux, each with more than 250 observations, both produced estimates of β = 0.56, comparable with the previously reported estimate of 0.6 ± 10%. We show that this is not an altogether empirical value, but is derivable from statistical considerations. The value of 0.56 was used in subsequent measurements of latent heat flux (LE) and carbon exchange rate (CER) with an IR gas analysis-based system. There are discretization errors in the sample system that caused systematic underestimation of ΔC, for which we derived an approximate correction. Even with this correction, measurements of LE still tended to be somewhat lower than residual energy balance estimates of LE. In one 4 day trial, the slope of measured LE vs. residual-estimated LE was 0.96, whereas in a second trial the slope was only 0.86. Although such results indicate that further research is necessary, they also provide encouragement that such work will be worthwhile.
Evaluation of dine-in restaurant location and competitiveness: applications of gravity modeling in Jefferson County, Kentucky.

Abstract The selection of a quality site in a competitive market is critical to the future success of a dine-in restaurant. This paper focuses on the development and application of different forms of gravity models in the evaluation of a restaurant's location and competitiveness in Jefferson County, Kentucky. It also assessed the effectiveness of these applications empirically. Three models are presented, a market potential model, a complex gravity model, and a competing destinations or Huff model. The models incorporated into them the most significant variables affecting interaction with customers at restaurants. A correlation analysis was conducted on a sample of restaurants along a popular segment of local eateries in Jefferson County to determine if any statistically significant linear relationships exist between market potential or spatial interaction and real customer volume and longevity at the restaurant. Within a highly localized market area where restaurants are within close proximity and contain similar markets, a market potential model was unable to accurately capture the real conditions of this market. The gravity model was able to accurately reflect these conditions, but as the variables within the model were manipulated the strength of the correlation decreased and the model became less accurate. The highly localized study area indicated the importance of the site characteristics in attracting customers, as well as the importance of the appropriate selection of variables in modeling to reflect an accurate magnitude of spatial interaction.
Three trocar laparoscopic Roux-en-y gastric bypass: A novel technique en route to the single-incision laparoscopic approach

Abstract Background Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is the gold standard bariatric procedure. Typically, the procedure necessitates five to seven small skin incisions for trocar placement. The senior author (AA Saber) has developed a three-trocar approach for laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Methods Sixteen patients underwent triple-incision laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass between May 2009 and August 2009. The same surgeon performed all surgical interventions. The umbilicus was the main point of entry for all patients and the same operative technique and perioperative protocol were used in all patients. Results A total of sixteen triple-incision laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypasses were performed. The procedures were successfully performed in all patients. Mean operating time was 145.4 min. None of the patients required conversion to an open procedure. There were no mortalities or post-operative technical complications noted during the immediate post-operative period. Conclusion Three trocar laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is safe, technically feasible and reproducible. This technique may be considered a "precursor" to single-incision laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.
Non-cutting setons for progressive migration of complex fistula tracts: a new spin on an old technique

Aim We introduced a modification of the loose seton for high transsphincteric fistula which involved daily self-rotation of the seton by 360°, which we call the progressive migration technique. The outcomes were evaluated.
Analysis of 3-D Frictional Contact Mechanics Problems by a Boundary Element Method

The development of two boundary element algorithms for solving 3-D, frictional, and linear elastostatic contact problems is reported in this paper. The algorithms employ nonconforming discreti- zations for solving 3-D boundary element models, which provide much needed flexibility in the bound- ary element modeling for 3-D contact problems. These algorithms are implemented in a new 3-D boundary element code and verified using several examples. For the numerical examples studied, the results using the new boundary element algorithms match very well with the results using a commercial finite element code, and clearly demonstrate the feasibility of the new boundary element approach for 3-D contact analysis.
Partnerships in Transition: Managing Organizational and Collaborative Change

Despite the abundance of literature on collaboration, very little attention is devoted to exploring the how partnerships transition over time. This article reports the findings of a study that examined how a mature partnership adjusted to a new administrative team while moving forward with a strategic plan to advance the partnership's mission. Key informant interviews revealed that when stable leadership is not present during transitional phases, the broker organization's capacity to facilitate the collaborative effort will be limited when priorities shift toward maintaining its organizational capacity for survival instead of the collective goals of the partnership.
Behaviour at Time t=0 of the Solutions of Semi-Linear Evolution Equations.

Abstract We investigate the regularity at time t = 0 of the solutions of linear and semi-linear evolutions equations (including the Stokes and Navier-Stokes equations), Necessary and sufficient conditions on the data for an arbitrary order of regularity are given (the classical “compatibility conditions”). In the case of the Stokes and Navier-Stokes equations the compatibility conditions which we find are global conditions on the data. The presentation given here seems to improve and generalize the known results even in the simplest case of linear evolution equations.
Increased Tϵ cells in BALB/c mice with an IgE-secreting hybridoma

Since it has been proposed that T cells with receptors for the Fc portion of IgE (T epsilon) in rats, mice and humans are IgE-specific regulatory cells, it was investigated whether mice with an IgE-secreting hybridoma might be a source of large numbers of T epsilon cells. BALB/c mice with ascitic tumors of the IgE hybridoma B53 (epsilon, kappa, anti-DNP) developed high serum concns of monoclonal IgE which was followed by the appearance of large numbers of Lyt1-2+ L3T4- T epsilon cells. In contrast, mice bearing a non-IgE producing variant of B53 failed to develop T epsilon cells. Mice infused with cell-free ascites fluid (containing high levels of monoclonal IgE) from the IgE-secreting B53 hybridoma developed high serum IgE levels and also developed high numbers of T epsilon cells. Mice infused with cell-free ascites obtained from the non-IgE-secreting variant ENP-1 (containing very low amounts of IgE) did not develop either high serum IgE levels or T epsilon cells. These findings suggest that high serum IgE concns induce large numbers of T cells that express phenotypic markers of suppressor cells and have surface IgE-Fc receptors. These studies extend to IgE the principle that hybridomas and plasmacytomas induce large numbers of immunoregulatory T cells that express Fc receptors specific for the heavy chain class of the secreted monoclonal immunoglobulin. Since T epsilon cells are normally present only in small numbers, their marked increase in mice with IgE-secreting hybridomas identifies a ready source of large numbers of T epsilon cells that can be used to investigate their regulatory properties.
Carotid intima-media thickness and vascular age: you are only as old as your arteries look.

Because coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of death in the United States, primary prevention of cardiovascular events is a health care priority. A key challenge to primary prevention efforts is identifying individuals who would be candidates for more intensive medical interventions. The Third Adult Treatment Panel of the National Cholesterol Education Program recommended using the Framingham Global Risk Assessment Model to predict risk; however, this model is very dependent on chronological age, which is a surrogate for atherosclerotic burden. A sensitive, technically straightforward, and noninvasive marker of cardiovascular risk that can be used in the office setting would be a valuable clinical tool. Measurement of carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) with B-mode ultrasound is a noninvasive and highly reproducible technique for quantifying atherosclerotic burden. It is a well-validated research tool, but is not used widely as a clinical tool, even though the American Heart Association Prevention Conference V concluded that CIMT “can now be considered for further clarification of CHD risk assessment.”
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation without ventilation

Current resuscitation methods, although occasionally effective, rarely perform as well as initially anticipated. Some of the disappointment can be attributed to the difficulty of the task for many, including both professional and lay first responders. Significant attention has been paid recently to the need to simplify both the technique and the teaching of resuscitation. In considering simplification of the current resuscitation scheme, a logical start is an honest reappraisal of the importance and priorities of each of the once sacrosanct ABCs, specifically, establishment of an Airway, artificial Breathing (mouth-to-mouth breathing), and chest compressions for temporary Circulation. Experimental data continue to accumulate indicating that most important within this triad is circulation. Adequate oxygen exists within the blood during at least the first 10 mins of cardiac arrest. If circulation is provided to distribute such oxygen, no survival disadvantage results with chest compression-only basic life support (BLS) efforts. Even a totally occluded airway during the first 6 mins of cardiac arrest does not compromise survival if reasonable circulation is provided with chest compressions. Clinical studies support the same conclusion that what most influences survival in any BLS effort is circulation, not ventilation. Belgium investigators have shown equal survival rates among those treated with chest compressions plus ventilation and those who received chest compressions alone. Telephone dispatcher-guided BLS cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) has likewise shown no survival disadvantage to chest compression-only CPR when compared with telephone-guided standard BLS CPR. Based on this reasoning, a new simplified BLS method has been proposed. "Staged" CPR consists of a strategy to initially teach laypersons a simplified approach to BLS, which requires only chest compressions and not mouth-to-mouth breathing. "Bronze" CPR, in which chest compression-only BLS is taught, was compared with the standard European Resuscitation Council BLS course for laypersons. Manikin "exit testing" at course completion has revealed significant advantages of the simplified approach compared with standard CPR courses for the lay public.
Genotypic Differences in Cotton Root Penetration of a Compacted Subsoil Layer

Roots able to penetrate through compacted subsoil might result in better use of soil water. This study was conducted to determine whether roots of cotton (L.) genotypes differ in ability to penetrate through compacted soil and, if so, to develop a system for early identification of superior rooting. Sixteen genotypes were compared without irrigation in Norfolk loamy sand (fine-loamy siliceous, thermic Typic Kandiudult) overlying a compacted subsoil layer near Florence, SC. Some remained turgid, while others wilted. Roots of the turgid genotypes penetrated the compacted layer, whereas few roots of the wilted genotypes did. One line that remained turgid and one that wilted in the field were then studied over artificially compacted soil cores. Roots of the turgid (but not the wilted) genotype penetrated bulk densities of 1.4 g cm. Artificially compacted cores can provide a tool to evaluate genotypes for root penetration as an early part of cultivar development for sandy soils that overlie compacted subsoil.
Vitamin A deficiency increases hepatic apolipoprotein A-I mRNA expression in both euthyroid and hypothyroid rats

Abstract We have examined the effects of chronic thyroid hormone deficiency, vitamin A deficiency, and subsequent acute repletion with thyroid hormone (T 3 ) and/or retinoic acid (RA) on the expression of hepatic apolipoprotein (apo) A-I mRNA. Chronically hypothyroid and/or retinoid-deficient male Lewis rats were treated once or three times with T 3 , all- trans -RA, or both hormones. The hypothyroid state significantly reduced ( P P 3 (10 μg/100 gm body weight) significantly elevated apo A-I mRNA in hypothyroid rats ( P P 3 hormone treatment and vitamin A status of the rats, as well as between RA and T 3 treatment and the thyroid status of the rats. These in vivo results may indicate that nuclear retinoid receptors and thyroid hormone receptors interact in the regulation of the apo A-I gene in liver.
Assessing the health, functional characteristics, and health needs of youth attending a noncategorical transition support program

Abstract Purpose To assess the health, functional characteristics, and health care service needs of youth and young adults with special health care needs attending a comprehensive, noncategorical transition program. Methods A self-administered survey was developed from national health surveys and clinical experience to assess concepts identified as important for successful transition to adulthood. Surveys were mailed to 198 parents of youth and young adults with special health care needs attending the transition clinic. Parents were asked about the youth's health, functional status, and health care services needed. The clinical database provided demographic and patient health characteristics. Results were compared against the 2005–2006 National Survey of Children with Special Health Care Needs. Results Forty-four percent of surveys were returned. Average age of youth was 17.5 (11–22) years old and diagnoses included cerebral palsy (36%), spina bifida (10%), developmental delay or Down syndrome (17%), and autism (6%). Most youth needed assistance with personal care (69%) and routine needs (91%) and used assistive devices (59%). Compared with the 2005–2006 National Survey of Children with Special Health Care Needs, parents reported higher needs for all services except mental health care and tobacco or substance use counseling. Forty three percent reported at least one unmet health need. Few parents reported the need for counseling on substance use (1%), sexual health screening (16%), nutrition (34%), and exercise (41%). Conclusions Youth attending our transition program had more functional limitations, poorer reported health status, different diagnosis distribution, and higher levels of needed health services. Few parents identified needs for other recommended adolescent preventive services. Transition programs should assess patient health characteristics and service needs to design effective patient-centered services.
Therapeutic change of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors in patients with coronary artery disease.

Study Objective. To evaluate short-term outcomes when atorvastatin was substituted for pravastatin or simvastatin in patients with coronary artery disease. Design. Open-label, fixed-dosage, one-way crossover from pravastatin and simvastatin to atorvastatin. Setting. University-affiliated hospital and outpatient clinics. Patients. Eighty patients with coronary artery disease with a minimum baseline low-density lipoprotein (LDL) above 130 mg/dl: 20 were treated with pravastatin 20 mg/day, 20 with pravastatin 40 mg/day, 20 with simvastatin 20 mg/day, and 20 with simvastatin 40 mg/day for a minimum of 6 months, with a prescription refill rate of 80% or greater. Intervention. Before crossover, patients had a fasting lipid profile determined and were questioned about side effects of pravastatin and simvastatin. All patients were switched to atorvastatin 10 mg/day. After 12 weeks of atorvastatin therapy, a repeat fasting lipid profile was obtained and patients were questioned about side effects with the drug. Measurements and Main Results. Baseline demographic and clinical characteristics of the treatment groups were not significantly different with the exception of a lower baseline LDL in patients receiving pravastatin 20 mg/day. Baseline LDL values were as follows: pravastatin 20 mg/day, 158 ± 26 mg/dl; pravastatin 40 mg/day, 176 ± 22 mg/dl; simvastatin 20 mg/day, 177 ± 27 mg/dl; and simvastatin 40 mg/day, 177 ± 27 mg/dl. Reductions in LDL after treatment with pravastatin or simvastatin were as follows: pravastatin 20 mg/day, 22%; pravastatin 40 mg/day, 32%; simvastatin 20 mg/day, 33%; and simvastatin 40 mg/day, 38%. Patients achieving LDL goal with initial therapy were as follows: pravastatin 20 mg/day, 5%; pravastatin 40 mg/day, 5%; simvastatin 20 mg/day, 20%; and simvastatin 40 mg/day, 30%. After the switch to atorvastatin 10 mg/day, reductions in LDL were as follows: pravastatin 20 mg/day, 39% (p<0.001); pravastatin 40 mg/day, 38% (p<0.01); simvastatin 20 mg/day, 39% (p=0.04); and simvastatin 40 mg/day 38% (p=0.83). Patients achieving LDL goals with atorvastatin 10 mg/day were as follows: pravastatin 20 mg/day, 60%; pravastatin 40 mg/day, 30%; simvastatin 20 mg/day, 25%; and simvastatin 40 mg/day, 30%. The frequency of side effects was similar for all three statins. Based on annual average wholesale price, atorvastatin 10 mg/day was more cost-effective than all pravastatin and simvastatin regimens. Conclusions. Therapeutic interchange from pravastatin 20 and 40 mg/day and simvastatin 20 mg/day to atorvastatin 10 mg/day was associated with both cost savings and significant reductions in LDL. The change from simvastatin 40 mg/day to atorvastatin 10 mg/day was associated with cost savings and an equivalent reduction in LDL.
Electronic shell structure in simple metal clusters

Abstract The total energies of simple metal clusters (sodium, magnesium, and aluminium) containing up to 100 valence electrons are calculated in the spherical jellium approximation using the local-density-functional scheme. Because of the existence of electronic shell structure, there are abrupt changes in the total energy at certain cluster sizes. This behavior accounts for the peaks or steps found in the mass spectrum of sodium clusters. Predictions for the sizes of magnesium and aluminium clusters which should be abundant in the mass spectra are also discussed.
A W-Band Horn Antenna Using Self-Aligned 3D Plastic Embossing Process

We have demonstrated a waveguide-fed, W-band horn antenna using a three-dimensional (3D), polymeric micro hot embossing process. Two cavity resonators were designed to reduce the impedance mismatch between the horn antenna and the feeding waveguide at a 90° bend. High Frequency Structure Simulator (HFSS) was used to simulate for the performance of the waveguide-fed horn antenna. The antenna directivity and return loss at 95GHz were simulated at 16.56dB and 14.5dB respectively. The measured performance shows impedance match better than 10dB between 76.5~101.7 GHz and 17.5dB at 95GHz. The 3dB beamwidths of the E- and H-plane patterns are 26° and 23° respectively and the total directivity is 17.33dB. The cross-polarized component in the E- or H-planes was 20dB lower than the peak of the corresponding co-polarized component indicating the antenna robustness in rejecting signals with undesired polirization. This plastic, low-cost manufacturing process opens up opportunities in replacing the expensive metallic components with integrated 3D polymeric manufacturing for current and future millimeter-wave systems.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
The Infrared Spectrum of Carbon Dioxide. Part II

Previous work by Fermi and by Dennison has shown that the principal features of the infrared and Raman spectra of carbon dioxide may be explained by taking account of the first order perturbation terms in the potential energy expression. It was not possible to predict the positions of the levels with any high degree of accuracy, however. The present paper extends this work by introducing a second order perturbation. The formula for the second order energy correction of a general linear symmetrical triatomic molecule is initially computed. This formula is then modified in order that it may be applicable to the carbon dioxide molecule in which resonance degeneracy plays an essential r\^ole. A review is made of the experimental data which determine the positions of the carbon dioxide vibrational energy levels. These include the results of a recent investigation of absorption bands appearing in the spectrum of Venus, as well as new and as yet unpublished data found by Barker and Wu. In all, twenty levels have been found and out of these, eleven are required to determine the anharmonic constants of the molecule. The remaining nine levels may then be predicted, and their positions are found to agree very accurately with the values obtained experimentally. A table is given showing the positions of a number of C${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$ infrared bands which while accessible to observation have not as yet been reported. The recent work by Langseth and Nielsen on the Raman spectrum of C${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$ is discussed.
Mycotic Aneurysm of the Descending Thoracic Aorta in a 2-kg Neonate

Umbilical artery catheterization is often performed in critically ill neonates. Infection and thromboembolic events are relatively frequent complications, but aneurysm formation is rare. We describe the case of a premature baby who developed a rapidly expanding aneurysm of the descending thoracic aorta, secondary to a highly placed infected umbilical catheter. The rapid progression under medical therapy prompted us to replace the thoracic aorta with an 8-mm polytetrafluoroethylene graft, using extracorporeal circulation and core cooling. The baby had an excellent recovery and was discharged home after a prolonged antibiotic course. He is being followed with repeated imaging studies for a small abdominal aneurysm. We describe a novel approach to this rare and complicated problem and provide a review of the literature on the subject.
Gut edema alters expression of tight junction proteins

Abstract Introduction: We have previously shown that gut edema without ischemia/reperfusion injury increases intestinal permeability in the ileum. Intestinal permeability is regulated by tight junction proteins which control the movement of macromolecules between epithelial cells. The proteins occludin and claudin-1 are the structural components and myosin light chain kinase is the regulatory component of the tight junction which is reinforced by the actin cytoskeleton. We hypothesized that gut edema increases permeability by decreasing expression of tight junction proteins. Methods: At laparotomy, rats were given 80cc/kg of 0.9% saline + superior mesenteric vein partial occlusion (Edema) or sham surgery. At 12 hrs, ileum was harvested for evaluation of occludin, claudin-1, myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) and mature, filamentous actin (F-actin) by deconvolution microscopy. Tissue water was determined using wet to dry weight ratio. Data are expressed as mean +/− SEM, t-test, 4–5/group. Results: Gut edema significantly increased the wet to dry ratio compared to sham and was associated with a significant increase in occludin and claudin-1 protein expression. MLCK protein expression and F-actin were significantly decreased. ∗Wet to dry ratioOccludin (pixel units)Claudin-1 (pixel units)F-actin (pixel units)MLCK (pixel units)Sham3.22 ± 0.092251 ± 291906 ± 211973 ± 1151962 ± 307Edema3.69 ± 0.07∗3786 ± 330∗3356 ± 777∗602 ± 83∗666 ± 113∗∗Denotes a P Conclusions: Gut edema disrupts the cytoskeleton ring by decreasing the presence of mature, filamentous actin. This disruption does not rely on increased expression of MLCK, but may contribute to the increased expression of structural proteins claudin and occludin seen in gut edema.
Isolation and characterization of a cellulase gene family member expressed during avocado fruit ripening.

We present in this paper the structural analysis of two members of a small cellulase gene family, designated cel1 and cel2, from avocado. These genes were isolated by screening a λ EMBL3 genomic library with a ripening-induced cellulase cDNA. Restriction endonuclease and Southern blot analyses showed that the cel1 gene is highly homologous to the cellulase cDNA and thus represents a ripening-related cellulase gene. The other cellulase gene, cel2, is closely related to cel1, but is divergent at its 5′ end. The nucleotide sequence of a 5 kb region encompassing the cel1 gene was determined. Four previously characterized cellulase cDNAs from ripe fruit are identical to the eight exons of the cel1 gene. RNase protection and primer extension analyses were used to define the transcription start site of cel1 and to quantitate cel1 transcripts in ripening fruit. The cel1 mRNA was present at a low level in unripe fruit and increased 37-fold during ripening. Partial DNA sequence analysis of cel2 and comparison to the cel1 sequence revealed a high degree of similarity both at the DNA and deduced amino acid sequence levels. No characterized cellulase cDNAs derived from ripe fruit represent cel2 transcripts. These data suggest that the cel1 gene is responsible for a major portion, if not all, of the cellulase transcripts in ripe fruit. The DNA sequence of 1.4 kb of 5′ flanking DNA of the cel1 gene was compared to the upstream sequence of other ethylene-regulated genes. Several interesting upstream sequence motifs were identified and are discussed.
Mitomycin C resistant L1210 leukemia cells: Association with pleiotropic drug resistance

A mitomycin C-resistant (MMCR) strain of L1210 mouse leukemia was developed by continuous drug exposure in vitro. MMC concentrations were increased in a stepwise fashion beginning at 0.033 microM and ending at 0.34 microM. This produced a 10-fold resistant cell line over the parental line. Resistance simultaneously developed to anthracene and anthracycline DNA intercalators, to vinca alkaloids and epipodophyllotoxins but not to cisplatin, bleomycin, fluorouracil or ionizing X-rays. MMC resistance was reversed using the membrane-active agent verapamil. The level of non-protein sulfhydryls was increased 2-fold in the MMCR cells. Intracellular uptake of unchanged MMC was reduced by 40% in the MMCR cells. Cytogenetic analyses demonstrated no recognizable clonal chromosomal alterations unique to the resistant subline and no evidence of double minutes or homogeneously staining regions in the DNA. Gel renaturation analysis failed to document the presence of an amplified DNA domain. Southern blotting of parental and MMCR DNA using a cDNA probe (CHP1) for the P-glycoprotein gene also failed to demonstrate amplification or rearrangement of P-glycoprotein-related homologous sequences. However, an Mr 180,000 glycoprotein was detected in the plasma membranes from MMCR cells. This protein also specifically reacted with a monoclonal antibody (C219) to the P-glycoprotein of Ling and co-workers [Kartner et al., Nature, Lond. 316, 820 (1985)]. These results suggest a pleiotropic drug resistance pattern in the MMCR cells, associated with membrane glycoprotein alterations, enhanced non-protein sulfhydryl levels, and reduced MMC accumulation. This is a novel observation for a resistant cell line selected with an alkylating agent.
Ni(II)chelates of 4,9-dimethyl-5,8-dizadodeca-4,8-diene-2,11-dione-3,10-diphenyl hydrazone and related molecules

Syntheses and structural characterization of Ni(II) chelates of a new series of symmetric and unsymmetric tetradentate linear ligands are described. Preparative routes involve either the direct reaction between a metal complex and arene diazonium diazonium salts or a simple metal incorporation into the independently synthesized ligands. Recent X-ray structure determination of 4,9-dimethyl-5,8-diazadodeca-4,8-diene-2,11-dione-3,10-di(4′-methyl phenyl) hydrazonatonickel(II) complex reveals the geometry around the Ni(II) to be very close to square planar. The expected distortion because of the disposition of bulky aromatic groups on the neighbouring nitrogens is minimized by their projection in the opposite directions from the plane. PMP, IR and electronic spectral data for the complexes are quite in agreement with this structure.
Extraperitoneal laparoscopic hernia repair with local anesthesia

This review aimed to compare laparoscopic preperitoneal herniorrhaphy (LPPH) using a laryngeal mask airway and local anesthesia with conventional open herniorrhaphy using similar anesthetic conditions. A retrospective review of 238 hernia operations was conducted from October 1996 through September 1998. Laparoscopic preperitoneal hernia repairs with the patient under laryngeal mask airway anesthesia were performed initially using 10 ml of 0.5% bupivacaine (LPPH+10 group). This was compared with hernia repair using 30 ml of 0.5% bupivacaine (LPPH+30 group). Both LPPH groups were compared with a plug and patch “Gilbert” hernia repair group. Postoperative pain was compared in the recovery room and outpatient suite. The LPPH+30 group required significantly less postoperative pain medication than the LPPH+10 group. The LPPH+30 group required slightly more pain medication in the recovery room than the open hernia repair group, but in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) unit, the LPPH+30 group used less pain medication. A similar number of LPPH+30 patients, and open hernia repair patients required no pain medication. The use of a long-acting local anesthetic, (30 ml of 0.5% bupivacaine via laryngeal mask airway) for laparoscopic preperitoneal hernia repair compared favorably with conventional open hernia repair using similar anesthetic techniques.
Correlations of Cationic Charges with Salt Sensitivity and Microbial Specificity of Cystine-stabilized β-Strand Antimicrobial Peptides

The electrostatic interaction of the charge cluster of an amphipathic peptide antibiotic with microbial membranes is a salt-sensitive step that often determines organism specificity. We have examined the correlation between charge clusters and salt insensitivity and microbial specificity in linear, cyclic, and retro-isomeric cystine-stabilized beta-strand (CSbeta) tachyplesin (TP) in a panel of 10 test organisms. Cyclic tachyplesins consisting of 14 and 18 amino acids are constrained by an end-to-end peptide backbone and two or three disulfide bonds to cross-brace the anti-parallel beta-strand that approximates a "beta-tile" structure. Circular dichroism measurements of beta-tile TPs showed that they displayed ordered structures. Control peptides containing the same number of basic amino acids as TP but lacking disulfide constraints were highly salt sensitive. Cyclic TP analogues with six cationic charges were more broadly active and salt-insensitive than those with fewer cationic charges. Reducing their proximity or number of cationic charges, particularly those with three or fewer basic amino acids, led to a significant decrease in potency and salt insensitivity, but an increased selectivity to certain Gram-positive bacteria. An end-group effect of the dibasic N-terminal Lys of TP in the open-chain TP and its retroisomer was observed in certain Gram-negative bacteria under high-salt conditions, an effect that was not found in the cyclic analogs. These results suggest that a stable folded structure together with three or more basic amino acids closely packed in a charged region in CSbeta peptides is important for salt insensitivity and organism specificity.
Food insufficiency in the households of reproductive-age Ecuadorian women: association with food and nutritional status indicators.

Data from a nationally representative survey of Ecuadorian households with reproductive-aged women (n = 10,784) were used to analyze the prevalence of household food insufficiency (HFI) and its association with sociodemographic characteristics, food acquisition and expenditure patterns, dietary diversity, and anthropometric indicators. Fifteen percent of households had food insufficiency and 15% had marginal food sufficiency. HFI was associated with poverty-linked indicators. Marginally food sufficient households reported social and economic capital than food which appeared protective against HFI. Food insufficiency was associated with reduced household acquisition/expenditures on high quality protein and micronutrient-rich food sources. HFI was not associated with adult or adolescent female overweight/obesity but was associated with short adult stature (< 1.45 m). The ongoing nutrition transition in Ecuador is expected to continue to modify population food security, diet, and nutrition. Systematic survei...
Rate of synthesis and concentration of specific mRNA sequences in cultured Chinese hamster ovary cells compared to liver cells.

Abstract With the aid of recombinant DNA molecules the concentration of nine different mRNAs in cultured Chinese hamster cells has been compared to liver cells. One clone in nine showed a marked increase (13-fold) in liver cells but the remainder were present at about the same level in the two cell types. The rate of RNA synthesis in the nucleus was not increased by 13-fold for this clone but only about 3-fold. These data show that quantitative hybridization to recombinant DNA can estimate mRNA concentrations and rates of synthesis accurately and suggest levels at which control operates.
VARIABILITY IN PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF DRIED WHEYS FROM COMMERCIAL SOURCES

Variability in physicochemical characteristics of dried wheys was determined for samples collected from six commercial sources. Eight dried whey samples were collected from each plant over a six month period. The pH in water, percent ash, alkalinity of ash, solubility in water and in acid, and Browning Indexes with and without pronase digestion were determined for each dried whey. Whey proteins were evaluated by gel electrophoresis. Variability of pH in water and of percent ash were low for dried wheys from individual plants, however considerable variability existed in the other characteristics, both between plants and between samples from individual plants. Gel electrophoresis may be useful in evaluating the effects of whey processing and drying on whey proteins.
Droplet Dynamics Changes in Electrostatic Sprays of Methanol−Water Mixtures

Two-dimensional phase Doppler anemometry measurements have been carried out to determine the size and velocity distributions of electrosprayed droplets generated from methanol -water mixtures. We investigated spraying conditions close to those of electrospray ionization sources. The droplet size and the axial and radial velocity distributions were measured as a function of liquid flow rate, needle-to-counter electrode distance, bias voltage, position of the probe volume, and electrical conductivity of the liquid. In 90:10 (v/v) methanol water mixtures the droplet size decreased from 7t o1.6 Im as the conductivity increased as a consequence of a 3 orders of magnitude increase in ionic strength. As the position of the probe volume was moved along the spray axis, two different spray dynamics were observed. Solutions of low conductivity (c 10 -3 M), however, resulted in smaller droplets at the needle (1.6 Im) that increased in size to 4.2 Im as the particles traveled toward the counter electrode. The droplet size reduction can be explained by evaporation and/or Coulomb explosion, whereas the increase in droplet size may be the consequence of droplet segregation or coalescence. Axial velocity distributions show compression along the spray axis (e.g., observed at 10 mm 50% reduction of the width at 4 mm is seen). Moving downstream, the average velocity of droplets from water-methanol mixtures decreases monotonically. Solutions containing KCl exhibit a maximum in axial droplet velocity as the probe volume moves away from the capillary. These profile changes can be explained by differences in the electric field distribution along the spray centerline.
Separation and wake of pulsating laminar flow

This is an experimental study of laminar pulsating flow that passes through separation and is led to a separated region. Detailed information is obtained on all interconnected regions, namely, the approaching attached laminar boundary layer, the immediate neighbourhood of separation, the separated shear layer, the large-scale vortical region of the wake and the outer inviscid flow. The approaching flow is pulsated with frequencies that include the natural frequencies of the wake. Flow visualizations are contrasted with instantaneous and averaged digital data obtained via laser-Doppler velocimetry and hot-wire anemometry. The interaction of the disturbing and natural frequencies is studied. Results are com pared with recent theoretical advances. It is found that the amplitude of the imposed disturbance grows sharply in the neighbourhood of separation.
Anatomy of a failure: picturephone revisited

Abstract Picturephone service — a two-way, switched, video telephone system — was developed and marketed by AT&T in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The market did not respond to the service offering, and the service was withdrawn — in other words, picturephone service was a market failure, although the technology was an impressive success. This article reviews the history of the Bell System's effort to market picturephone service and presents the reasons for its market failure. The results of market research are interweaved with the author's personal experience with visual communications to support the inescapable conclusion that most business customers and residential consumers simply had little need for two-way, face-to-face visual telecommunication. The reasons for the picturephone's market failure had little to do with either technology or cost. Picturephone service simply had little incremental value compared to a telephone call — and perhaps even negative value for some users.
Examining the Predictive Validity of an Instrument: Technology Attitudes and Learning

ABSTRACT This article reports the results of a study examining the predictive validity of a computer attitude instrument. The researchers attempted to determine the extent to which this instrument predicts student learning. Data from two universities were collected using this instrument over a nine-year period and were sorted into three sets with a random n of 400 in each. Three procedures were performed. First, one set of data was used to develop a base model of prediction. Second, this model was used to calculate the predicted learning achievement scores for the other two sets of data. Finally, in those two sets of data, the means of the predicted and observed learning achievement scores were compared using inferential statistics. The predictive validity of the instrument was confirmed, as no significant differences were found between the mean predicted and observed learning outcome scores.
The treatment of pneumococcal meningitis without intrathecal penicillin

Summary The treatment of seventeen patients with pneumococcal meningitis withsulfadiazine and penicillin resulted in a recovery rate of 82 per cent. No intrathecal penicillin was used in this group. Seven were treated with relatively large doses of penicillin (320,000 to 400,000 units daily) with a recovery rate of 100 per cent. The therapy of pneumococcal meningitis should be individualized for each patient, and intrathecal penicillin should be reserved for those who do not respond to adequate systemic therapy.
Transition state for the singlet disilene—silylsilylene isomerization

Abstract The transition state for the singlet disilene—silylsilylene isomerization has been located at the Hartree-Fock level with basis sets of split valence plus polarization function quality (6–31G ** ). The transition state is positioned 18.2 kcal/mol above disilene and 20.6 kcal/mol above silylsilylene at the HF level. Correlation energy corrections based on M∅ller—Plesset third-order perturbation theory lower the position of the barrier to 17.3 and 12.3 kcal/mol above disilene and silylsilylene, respectively.
At the Edge of Conquest: The Journey of Chief Wai‐Wai

At the Edge of Conquest: The Journey of Chief Wai-Wai. 1992. Produced byGeoffrey O'connor, Realis Pictures, Inc. 28 minutes, color. Rental from Filmakers Library, 124 East 40th St., New York, NY 10016(212–808–4980).