cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pharmacological Evaluation of an Epoxide as the Putative Hyperpolarizing Factor Mediating the Nitric Oxide-Independent Vasodilator Effect of Bradykinin in the Rat Heart

A cytochrome P450-derived metabolite of arachidonic acid, namely an epoxyeicosatrienoic acid (EET), has many of the properties of a hyperpolarizing factor that mediates endothelium-dependent, nitric oxide-independent vasodilation. As there are four EET regioisomers, we used pharmacological criteria, based on previous observations with bradykinin (BK), to evaluate which, if any, of the EETs could be considered a potential mediator of vasodilator responses to BK in the rat isolated heart treated with indomethacin and nitroarginine to eliminate prostaglandin and nitric oxide components of the response. Nifedipine, used as a probe for dilator mechanisms dependent on closure of voltage-dependent Ca++ channels, almost abolished the vasodilator effect of cromakalim and attenuated those of BK and 5,6 EET. The vasodilator effects of the other EETs were not reduced and were excluded from consideration as mediators of BK-induced vasodilation. The vasodilator effect of 5,6 EET, as with that of BK, was markedly reduced by charybdotoxin but not iberiotoxin, suggesting the contribution of a similar type K+ channel to the vascular response to both agents. As expected for a putative endothelium- and cytochrome P450-derived mediator, the coronary vasodilator effect of 5,6 EET was not affected by either removal of the endothelium or inhibition of cytochrome P450 with clotrimazole, interventions that virtually abolished the vasodilator activity of BK. Thus, of the four EET regioisomers, 5,6 EET is the most likely mediator of the vasodilator effect of BK in the isolated heart under these experimental conditions.
Information-Processing and Motivated Distortion in the Attribution of Causality for Success and Failure.

An experiment was conducted to investigate the influence of both informational and motivational factors on observers' attributions. Observers evaluated the behavior of a "student therapist". Probable Outcome also emerged. However, the strongest motivationally based prediction, an interaction of Personal Involvement and Actual Outcome, was not confirmed.
Magnetoresistive Effects in the Upper Critical Fields of Heavy Fermion Superconductors

The large magnitudes and unusual temperature dependences of the upper critical fields Hc2 of heavy fermion superconductors (HFSC) have been difficult to explain in terms of traditional pairbreaking theories such as the WHHM model1−6. The anomalous Hc2 of UBe13 has, in particular, been taken as a manifestation of the field dependence of normal state parameters such as the electronic specific heat coefficient γ, magnetic susceptibility χ, and electrical resistivity ρ, or odd-parity superconducting pairing interactions2. Although the potential influence on Hc2 of the field dependences of γ and χ cannot be ignored, they are generally less pronounced than that of ρ, at least for T ≈ Tc(H=0) ≡ Tco (Ref. 3).
Use of hollow trees as diurnal resting shelter by Lutzomyia shannoni (Diptera: Psychodidae) on Ossabaw Island, Georgia

Use of hollow trees as diurnal resting shelter by Lutzomyia shannoni Dyar was studied on Ossabaw Island, Chatham County, GA. This species was collected in large numbers from constrictive openings (tree holes) leading into living hardwood trees that contained larger internal hollows. Laurel oak ( Quercus laurifolia Michaux) and live oak ( Q. virginiana Miller) were the most commonly used species. Regression analysis demonstrated no significant correlation between mean number of sand flies trapped from individual tree holes and six environmental variables: tree species, crown class, and diameter of the trees containing the holes; and area, compass bearing, and height above ground of tree holes from which flies were collected. The mean number of sand flies captured from individual hollow trees in 1990 was similar to and significantly correlated with the mean number of sand flies collected from the same trees in 1988, indicating that the tree-hole niche is stable for sand flies over time at this site.
Interleukin-6 gene transfer reverses body weight gain and fatty liver in obese mice

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a multifunctional protein and has a major influence on energy metabolism. The current study was designed to assess the therapeutic effect of overexpression of Il-6 gene through gene transfer on high fat diet-induced obese mice. Hydrodynamic delivery of 1 μg pLIVE-IL6 plasmid per mouse into C57BL/6 obese mice resulted in peak level at 10 ng/ml of circulating IL-6 1 day after gene transfer and above 1n g/ml thereafter for a period of 6 weeks. Persistent Il-6 gene expression did not affect food intake but induced a significant reduction in body weight and improved obesity-associated hepatic steatosis. Il-6 gene delivery enhanced thermogenic gene expression and elevated protein levels of phosphorylated STAT3, PGC1α and UCP1 in brown adipose tissue. Il-6 overexpression elevated mRNA levels of lipolysis genes, triggered phosphorylation of STAT3, AMPK, and ACC, and increased expression of genes involved in fatty acid oxidation in skeletal muscle. IL-6 did not affect macrophage infiltration but maintained the M2 macrophage population in adipose tissue. Collectively, these results suggest that overexpression of the Il-6 gene by hydrodynamic gene delivery induces weight loss and alleviates obesity-induced fatty liver and insulin resistance, supporting the notion that gene transfer is a valid approach in managing obesity epidemics.
The analog linear interpolation approach for Monte Carlo simulation of PGNAA: The CEARPGA code

Abstract The analog linear interpolation approach (ALI) has been developed and implemented to eliminate the big weight problem in the Monte Carlo simulation code CEARPGA. The CEARPGA code was previously developed to generate elemental library spectra for using the Monte Carlo – library least-squares (MCLLS) approach in prompt gamma-ray neutron activation analysis (PGNAA). In addition, some other improvements to this code have been introduced, including (1) adopting the latest photon cross-section data, (2) using an improved detector response function, (3) adding the neutron activation backgrounds, (4) generating the individual natural background libraries, (5) adding the tracking of annihilation photons from pair production interactions outside of the detector and (6) adopting a general geometry package. The simulated result from the new CEARPGA code is compared with those calculated from the previous CEARPGA code and the MCNP code and experimental data. The new CEARPGA code is found to give the best result.
Neuroimmunology. II: Antigenic specificity of the nervous system.

Antigenic specificity of the nervous system refers to a property conveyed by unique cell surface structures that are present on different classes of nervous system tissue. These structures are of major importance for the study of nervous system structure and function, and can play a central role in determining patterns of nervous system injury. Thus, the major classes of nervous system cells are identified by structures that are unique to them: neurons by the presence of tetanus toxin receptors on their surface and oligodendrocytes by the presence of surface galactocerebroside, for example. With the advent of hybridoma technology, a large number of monoclonal antibodies are being identified which have increased by several orders of magnitude the ability to define subclasses of nervous system tissue according to unique antigens. In addition, surface antigens of nervous system tissue may determine the specificity of nervous system injury by (1) functioning as receptors for viruses or (2) being the targets of autoimmune responses. Patterns of viral injury to the nervous system are often extraordinarily selective (e.g., poliovirus tropism for motor neurons), and nervous system viral tropism is due is some instances to the interaction of a virus with a unique surface antigen on neural cells. The specificity of injury in autoimmune disease (such as that against the acetylcholine receptor in myasthenia gravis) likewise must be explained by an immune response against unique antigenic determinants on the tissue being damaged. Some antigens are known to be shared between nervous system and other tissues or between nervous system and infectious agents such as bacteria or viruses. The presence of shared antigenic structures between the nervous system and infectious agents creates the possibility that an immune response generated against a virus may concurrently damage normal nervous system tissue.
Novel Cherenkov-fiber optic detector for the study of cosmic-ray nuclei including Zn to Zr

The most important observational challenges remaining in cosmic ray composition will require much increased detector areas to collect rare events while maintaining or improving upon present detector resolution. These goals include extending isotopic abundance measurements to higher energies, measuring isotopes beyond the Fe peak, and making elemental studies with single charge unit resolution through the Pb peak and beyond. Unfortunately, solid state cosmic ray spectrometers have, for practical purposes, approached their limit in collecting area. the fiber optic Cherenkov integrating system (FOCIS) could answer this need. Historically, most cosmic-ray Cherenkov detectors have been of the light-integrating type. The University of Chicago RICH experiment and the CAPRICE experiment are notable exceptions. These instruments measure the Cherenkov light cone to determine the incident particle velocity, avoiding the areal non-uniformities and time-dependent gain variations inherent in light-integrating Cherenkov detectors. FOCIS would use an array of special optical fibers to measure the light cone. These fibers would be simple and robust, could operate over a wide range of temperatures, and would not require onboard consumables (i.e., ionization gas). Fibers can also be left open to vacuum conditions. Thus FOCIS is well suited to balloon flights and long duration space-craft applications. Though the light collection efficiency of FOCIS would be vastly less than RICH or CAPRICE, it would otherwise share their advantages over light-integrating Cherenkov detectors and would be applicable to heavy ion studies. Monte-Carlo simulations of a FOCIS detector are presented. These simulations indicate that FOCIS would have a relatively flat resolution over a range of energies, in distinct contrast to conventional light-integrating Cherenkov detectors.© (1996) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Are biologists in 'future shock'? Symbiosis integrates biology across domains.

New and improved technologies are helping us to detect and characterize symbiotic microorganisms, whereas model symbiosis systems are revealing the molecular basis for partnerships. In this Essay, Margaret McFall-Ngai provides the historical context for the study of symbiosis and discusses the challenges that this emerging field faces.
Residual scaling techniques in multigrid, II: Practical applications

This paper focuses on the practical applications of the multigrid residual scaling techniques and is the continuation of a companion paper: Residual scaling techniques in multigrid, I: Equivalence proof [Appl. Math. Comput. 86:283-303 (1997)]. We discuss the computational issues of some residual scaling techniques which have been proven mathematically equivalent. A heuristic residual analysis technique, based on the geometry of the grid points and the relaxation pattern, is introduced to estimate the optimal residual scaling factor for a high-order multigrid method. We compare the performance of a typical pre-optimization (pre-acceleration) technique with a typical post-optimization (post-acceleration) technique and show that the pre-optimization is preferable in both convergence and efficiency. Our numerical results support the theoretical conclusions made in the companion paper and demonstrate the full advantage of the pre-optimization technique over the post-optimization technique.
A standard for business architecture description

A complete architectural specification of an information technology (IT) system includes information about how it is partitioned and how the parts are interrelated. It also contains information about what it should do and the purpose it must serve in the business. This paper provides a set of business concepts that partition the world of business meaning. It discusses the purpose of such an architectural view of business and ways in which it can be used. A set of generic concepts and their interrelationships organize business information content in terms of requirements on the business, the boundary of the business, and the business as a system for delivery of value. Methods are introduced to explore variations on the basic business concept patterns. These concepts are positioned to describe IT systems that support the business, and they are used to manage the work of IT system development and deployment.
Reduction in arteriovenous graft impairment: Results of a vascular access surveillance protocol

Abstract Impairment of hemodialysis (HD) vascular access, remains a frustrating problem for both the patient who possesses an arteriovenous graft (AVG) and the nephrologist who cares for the patient. We instituted a vascular access surveillance protocol intended to detect and correct evolving stenosis in patients with AVGs. The principal screen was the observation of dynamic venous pressure (VP) at a blood flow rate of 200 mL/min during the first 5 minutes of each HD session. If VP at a blood flow rate of 200 mL/min was 140 mm Hg or greater in three of six consecutive readings, recirculation greater than 15% on two observations, graft-arm swelling observed, or prolonged bleeding postdialysis observed, then the patient was referred for angiography and then angioplasty or surgery if a vascular stenosis of greater than 50% was documented. Sixty-four patients with a synthetic AVG comprised the study group. Seventy-two episodes of AVG impairment (56 with stenosis > or=50% on angiography, 16 with thrombosis) occurred in these patients during the study period. In 63 of 72 impairment episodes, the preceding vascular access screening test was positive. The calculated sensitivity and specificity of the vascular access protocol was 88% and 81%, respectively. Calculation of the sensitivity and specificity for the VP alone was 81% and 85%, respectively. Comparison of the study group with a similar historical control group (55 patients) showed a significantly lower thrombosis rate (P = 0.03; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.025 to 0.375) in the study group (0.29 thrombotic episodes/graft-year at risk) versus the historical control group (0.49 thrombotic episodes/graft-year at risk). In summary, a vascular access surveillance protocol is a useful tool to predict patients at risk for AVG venous stenosis and/or thrombosis. A dynamic VP of 140 mm Hg or greater appears to be the optimal threshold pressure. A decrease in synthetic AVG thrombosis rate resulted from the use of this surveillance protocol. (Am J Kidney Dis 1998 Aug;32(2):302-8)
Two-dimensional isotropic scattering in a finite thick cylindrical medium exposed to a laser beam

Abstract Graphical and tabular results are presented for the back-scattered intensity from a finite two-dimensional cylindrical medium exposed to a Gaussian beam of radiation. Also, results for the source function and flux at the boundaries are presented. The influence of optical thickness and albedo are most pronounced at large optical radii. The semi-infinite results can be used to approximate the finite case for small optical radii. Ranges for single, double, and multiple scattering are discussed. For locations far from the incident beam, the results can be expressed in terms of universal functions independent of beam size. A method is presented for extending the isotropic results to the anisotropic case where the phase function is made up of a spike superimposed on an otherwise isotropic phase function.
Neuropathologic substrate of mild cognitive impairment.

Objective: To define the neuropathologic findings in amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and early Alzheimer disease (EAD). Methods: The mean numbers of diffuse plaques, neuritic plaques (NPs), and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) in 4 neocortical regions and 4 ventromedial temporal lobe regions were counted in 10 patients with amnestic MCI and compared with the mean numbers in 23 normal control subjects and 10 patients with EAD, and then were compared with memory performance. All of the controls and patients were followed longitudinally. Results: Patients with MCI showed no significant difference (P.05) in the number of diffuse plaques from that in normal controls or patients with EAD. In patients with MCI, the number of NPs was significantly elevated in all 4 neocortical regions and amygdala compared with controls (P.01 to .001). There were no significant differences (P.05) in the number of NPs between MCI and EAD cerebral cortex, but significant increases were present for NPs in EAD amygdala and subiculum compared with MCI (P.01). In patients with MCI compared with controls, the only significant increase in NFTs in the neocortex was in the parietal lobe. However, the number of NFTs was significantly elevated in MCI in all 4 ventromedial temporal lobe structures compared with controls (P.01 to.001). In comparing MCI with EAD, there were significant increases in NFTs in EAD in frontal and temporal lobes, amygdala, and subiculum (P.01). The numbers of NPs and NFTs were significantly elevated in all of the neocortical regions and ventromedial temporal lobe regions in patients with EAD compared with controls (P.001). Memory function was significantly correlated with NFTs in CA1 of the hippocampus (P.01) and the entorhinal cortex (P.05). Conclusions: In patients with amnestic MCI who were followed longitudinally, the early changes of Alzheimer disease were present. The NFTs were slightly more prominent than -amyloid peptide deposition in the progression from normal to MCI to EAD. Ventromedial temporal lobe NFTs probably represent the substrate for memory decline in MCI. From a neuropathologic perspective, it appears that amnestic MCI is, in reality, EAD.
Effects of Finite Rate Phase Transformation Kinetics on The Steady-State Solidification Front Propagation Speed in Undercooled Pure Liquids

This novel approach to modeling the steady-state solidification of undercooled pure liquids is based upon first principles. Continuum equations are used to describe a volumetrically averaged, coexisting mixture of solid and liquid in the thin phase transformation zone between regions of pure liquid and pure solid. These equations are coupled with a dynamic equilibrium based rate law that describes temperature dependent phase transformation kinetics. The time scale associated with finite rate phase transformation is found to depend on a solidification activation energy, thermal energy, and the enthalpy of fusion. The model leads naturally to an eigenvalue problem for the solidification front propagation speed. In addition, the variation of the volumetrically averaged liquid fraction across the solidification zone is predicted.
Cogmed WM Training: Reviewing the Reviews

Does Cogmed working-memory training (CWMT) work? Independent groups of reviewers have come to what appears to be starkly different conclusions to this question, causing somewhat of a debate within scientific and popular media. Here, various studies, meta-analyses, and reviews of the Cogmed research literature will be considered to provide an overview of our present understanding regarding the effects of CWMT. These will particularly be considered in light of two recent critical reviews published by Melby-Lervag and Hulme ( 2013 ) and Shipstead, Hicks, and Engle ( 2012 ) and their arguments and conclusions assessed against current available evidence. Importantly we describe how the conclusions drawn by Melby-Lervag and Hulme appear to contradict their own findings. In fact, the results from their meta-analysis show highly significant effects of working-memory (WM) training on improving visuospatial WM and verbal WM (both ps < .001). In addition, analyses of long-term follow-ups show that effects on visuospatial WM remain significant over time (again at p < .001). Thus, the analyses show that WM is indeed improved using WM training, and the highest effect sizes are achieved using CWMT (compared with other training programs). We also conclude that there is current evidence from several studies using different types of outcome measures that shows attention can be improved following CWMT. In a little more than a decade, there is evidence that suggests that Cogmed has a significant impact upon visual-spatial and verbal WM, and these effects generalize to improved sustained attention up to 6 months. We discuss the evidence for improvements in academic abilities and conclude that although some promising studies are pointing to benefits gained from CWMT, more controlled studies are needed before we can make strong and specific claims on this topic. In conclusion, we find that there is a consensus in showing that WM capacity and attention is improved following CWMT. Due to the importance of WM and attention in everyday functioning, this is, on its own, of great potential value.
Regional variation in shear strength of the bone-polymethylmethacrylate interface.

Abstract Many investigators consider the polymethylmethacrylate—bone interface the weakest link in the bone—cement—implant system. Push-out tests, frequently used for in vitro evaluation of the bone—cement interface, produced inconsistent results of shear strength. Therefore, a more reliable model for testing the shear failure of the interface was developed. Better understanding of intrinsic variations in bone quality and geometry of endosteal bone at the interface may yield important insight into the patterns of clinical failure of cemented total joint prostheses.
Images in vascular medicine. Giant aneurysm of the aberrant right subclavian artery (arteria lusoria).

A 68-year-old man presented with a history of progressively worsening dysphagia, excessive weight loss of more than 30 kg during the preceding 6 months, and retrosternal discomfort. During the previous 2 weeks, any attempt at food or liquid intake provoked vomiting. After gastroenterological evaluation and endoscopy identified pulsating extraluminal compression on the esophagus, he was referred to a vascular surgeon for further evaluation. The patient was hypertensive without any history of ischemic heart disease. A contrast-enhanced CT scan of the mediastinum (Panel A) revealed a giant fusiform aneurysm measuring approximately 10 cm in diameter which contained extensive mural thrombus. The aneurysm compressed the trachea (Panel B; arrow 1), and almost completely obliterated the esophagus (Panel B; arrow 2). CT angiography (Panel C) revealed the aneurysm of an Panel A
Single-longitudinal-mode tunable WDM-channel-selectable fiber laser

We report operation of a single-longitudinal-mode WDMchannel-selectable fiber laser. The use of a tunable fiber Bragg grating and a linewidth narrowing saturable absorption filter in conjunction with an intracavity etalon enabled single-frequency emission and discretely tunable WDM channel operation without the need for external wavelength locking modules. Side mode suppression ratios (SMSRs) > 50 dB have been demonstrated with ~ 3 dBm individual channel output powers for 8 channel (f = 50 GHz) operation of this WDM source.
Effect of soldering on metal-porcelain bond strength in repaired porcelain-fused-to-metal castings.

Abstract Statement of problem. Chemical bonding plays a major role in the adherence between metal and porcelain. The formation of an oxide layer on solder material has not been described in the literature. It is unknown whether the application of solder negatively affects the bond strength between porcelain and metal. Purpose. This in vitro study assessed the effect of solder on the bond strength between metal and porcelain. Material and methods. Forty 20 × 6 × 0.5 mm patterns were divided into test (20) and control (20) groups. Test samples were perforated and repaired with solder, and 2 layers of opaque and dentin porcelain subsequently were applied on all samples. The samples were subjected to a 3-point flexural test on a screw-driven mechanical testing machine at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min. Failure type (adhesive vs cohesive) was quantified by digitizing photographs of test and control samples. Three samples in each group also were examined with an SEM coupled with an x-ray energy-dispersive spectroscopy apparatus (SEM/EDS). Means and standard deviations of loads at failure, sample thickness, and surface area covered with porcelain were calculated, and data were analyzed with Student t test ( P ≤.05). Results. The mean fracture load for test samples was significantly greater than for control samples ( P =.0038). Test samples also were significantly thicker (mean thickness difference 0.14 mm) ( P =.0001). When the data were controlled for thickness by using a multiple linear regression analysis, no significant difference was found ( P =.68). Test samples had a greater surface area covered with opaque porcelain ( P =.0006) as determined by visual inspection. Conclusion. In this study, soldered and nonsoldered samples did not show any significant difference in porcelain-to-metal bond strength. Visual analysis revealed a significant difference in the amount of porcelain remaining on the fracture surface of the test and control samples; a complete quantitative elemental analysis with SEM/EDS is in progress. (J Prosthet Dent 2001;85:88-94.)
Enrollment and participation in a pilot walking programme: the role of self-efficacy.

This pilot study investigated the association of self-efficacy with enrollment in and compliance with an 8-week exercise trial. We compared self-efficacy levels of adults who were eligible but did not enroll (N=221) to those who enrolled (N=115) and enrollees who were compliant at the end of the study (N=66). Those in the top three self-efficacy quintiles had higher odds of enrollment (adjusted odds ratios (AOR)=2.61–2.82) and being compliant at the end of the trial (AOR=4.31–4.38) compared to those in the lowest efficacy quintile. These results demonstrated the theoretical association between self-efficacy and one’s choice of behavior.
Effects of Truncal Vagotomy and Partial Gastrectomy on the Pharmacokinetics of Propranolol Enantiomers in Dogs

Abstract The effect of partial gastrectomy on the pharmacokinetic parameters of (+)- and (–)-propranolol were investigated in six dogs. (±)-Propranolol (3 mg/kg body weight) was administered orally before and after surgery and the plasma concentrations of (+)- and (–)-propranolol were determined using an indirect enantioseparation technique. There were significant differences (p ≦ 0.05, paired t -test) in the area under the concentration–time curves (AUCs) and the maximum plasma concentration ( C max ) between (+)- and (–)-propranolol. The ratio AUC(+):AUC(–) was 1.73 ± 0.28. These differences between the enantiomers remained unchanged after surgery. Other pharmacokinetic parameters showed no stereoselectivity. After partial gastrectomy, there was a slight, but nonsignificant decrease in time to reach maximum plasma concentration ( t max ) and in the absorption half-life for both enantiomers. The maximum plasma concentration increased slightly. The elimination half-life and the mean residence time remained unchanged before and after surgery. Therefore, it is unlikely that there are any clinically relevant changes in the pharmacokinetics of (+)- and (–)-propranolol after partial gastrectomy.
Apparent dip ‐ true dip formula using a unit hemisphere

A hemisphere of unit radius is used in graphical and mathematical derivation by four somewhat different methods of the formula tan Ψ = tan α cos θ, where Ψ is the angle of an apparent dip, α is the angle of a true dip, and θ is the angle between the direction of an apparent dip and a true dip. Also, some other concepts are derived with the application of the same formula.
Light-efficient joint transform optical correlator

The phase modulating capabilities of a commercially available liquid crystal television have been investigated and applied to the joint transform optical correlator architecture. Operating the LCTV in a phase modulating mode requires a much smaller coherent light source while still producing a good joint transform power spectrum and good correlation signals.
Self-employed workers: A comparison group for organizational psychology

Abstract By neglecting self-employed workers, organizational psychology has deprived itself of a potentially useful comparison group for the purposes of ascertaining the effects of work organizations on their members and of investigating the effects of particular organizational variables. Reasons for this neglect are discussed and examples of studies that would have been strengthened by the inclusion of a sample of self-employed workers as a comparison group are cited. The review of research on the self-employed includes studies in the areas of bureaucratization and professionalization, demography and economic behavior, mobility, social class, political behavior, and job satisfaction and mental health. No study of the job satisfaction of self-employed workers was found. Special attention is given to research employing the comparison of self-employed and wage-and-salary workers. It is concluded that due to lack of controls, little can be learned from available research findings about the effects of organizational membership on individual workers. Nonetheless, controlled use of this member-nonmember comparison appears promising as a means of assessing the effects of organizations on their members.
Coordinately repressible arginine deiminase system inStreptococcus sanguis

Arginine catabolism byStreptococcus sanguis NCTC 10904 was found to involve the arginine deiminase system. Enzyme assays indicated that the system was coordinately repressed by glucose and sucrose. Arginine transport also was repressed but not completely. A barotolerant variant of the organism was found to have a regulatory system defective for glucose repression so that ammonia was produced from arginine in cultures of the variant at atmospheric pressure even when the bacteria were producing acid glycolytically.
Analysis of nonlinear mechanisms in a precision deployable structure using measured flexibility

An experimental method of quantifying the nonlinear effects of varying preload on mechanisms within a deployable structure is presented. Local flexibilities are obtained from modal test data to examine the effects of the structure's nonlinear component mechanisms in situ. This technique allows the structural stiffness to be assessed separately from the structural mass so that variations in flexibility can be observed independent of the inertial loading of gravity off-load masses. Experimental application of the technique is also presented for a precision reconfigurable truss testbed. The variation of flexibility for three levels of off-load mass is studied to show the effect of gravity preload on mechanism stiffnesses. The results indicate flexibilities are more indicative of the effects of gravity preload than are individual modal parameters.
The American States and Canada: A Comparative Analysis of Health Care Spending

Most comparisons of the relative effectiveness of cost containment in the Canadian and U.S. health systems trace Canada's greater success to its single-payer approach. However, these studies ignore the substantial variation that exists in hospital and personal health care spending among both the American states and the provinces and territories of Canada. Four American states have adopted all-payer hospital rate setting; one other uses competitive bidding. All five show rates of growth in per capita hospital spending comparable to (and in some cases, lower than) the Canadian jurisdictions. Hospital spending, as a percentage of state gross domestic product (GDP), declined or remained constant in four of the five states. In four out of the five, growth in per capita spending on personal care, as a percentage of GDP, remained or fell below the national average. By contrast, in Canada, per capita spending on both hospitals and personal health care increased as a percentage of GDP in ten out of eleven jurisdictions. In each of the U.S. states, government played a central role in structuring the terms of payment and thus strengthened the hand of purchasers over providers. This strategy, rather than specifically a single-payer or universal health insurance approach, seems to be the key to limiting the growth in health costs to the growth in state or national income.
Assessment of Multiobjective Genetic Algorithms With Different Niching Strategies and Regression Methods for Engine Optimization and Design

In previous study [1] the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA II) [2] performed better than other popular Multi-Objective Genetic Algorithms (MOGA) in engine optimization that sought optimal combinations of the piston bowl geometry, spray targeting, and swirl ratio. NSGA II is further studied in this paper using different niching strategies that are applied to the objective-space and design-space, which diversify the optimal objectives and design parameters accordingly. Convergence and diversity metrics are defined to assess the performance of NSGA II using different niching strategies. It was found that use of the design niching achieved more diversified results with respect to design parameters, as expected. Regression was then conducted on the design datasets that were obtained from the optimizations with two niching strategies. Four regression methods, including K-nearest neighbors (KN), Kriging (KR), Neural Networks (NN), and Radial Basis Functions (RBF), were compared. The results showed that the dataset obtained from optimization with objective niching provided a more fitted learning space for the regression methods. The KN, KR, outperformed the other two methods with respect to the prediction accuracy. Furthermore, a log transformation to the objective-space improved the prediction accuracy for the KN, KR, and NN methods but not the RBF method. The results indicate that it is appropriate to use a regression tool to partly replace the actual CFD evaluation tool in engine optimization designs using the genetic algorithm. This hybrid mode saves computational resources (processors) without losing optimal accuracy. A Design of Experiment (DoE) method (the Optimal Latin Hypercube method) was also used to generate a dataset for the regression processes. However, the predicted results were much less reliable than results that were learned using the dynamically increasing datasets from the NSGA II generations. Applying the dynamical learning strategy during the optimization processes allows computationally expensive CFD evaluations to be partly replaced by evaluations using the regression techniques. The present study demonstrates the feasibility of applying the hybrid mode to engine optimization problems, and the conclusions can also extend to other optimization studies (numerical or experimental) that feature time-consuming evaluations and have highly non-linear objective-spaces.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Opioid and non-opioid mechanisms of footshock-induced analgesia: role of the spinal dorsolateral funiculus.

Abstract Exposure to inescapable footschock causes either an opioid or non-opioid mediated analgesia in the rat depending on the temporal parameters of its administration. Lesions of the spinal dorsolateral funiculus significantly reduce both the opioid and non-opioid forms of this footshock-induced analgesia. Thus, these two neurochemically discrete pani-inhibitory systems appear to depend on the integrity of the same descending path, one known to be activated by morphine and by analgesic brain stimulation.
Insights into the slow-onset tight-binding inhibition of Escherichia coli dihydrofolate reductase: detailed mechanistic characterization of pyrrolo [3,2-f] quinazoline-1,3-diamine and its derivatives as novel tight-binding inhibitors.

Dihydrofolate reductase, DHFR, is a pivotal enzyme involved in the de novo pathway for purine synthesis, and hence, represents an attractive target to disrupt systems that require rapid DNA turnover. The enzyme acquires resistance to available drugs by various molecular mechanisms, which necessitates the continuous discovery of novel antifolates. In a previous communication, we had identified a set of novel molecules that showed binding to E. coli DHFR by means of thermal shift without establishing whether they inhibited the enzyme. In this paper we show that a fraction of those molecules represent potent and novel inhibitors of DHFR activity. 7-[(4-aminophenyl)methyl]-7H-pyrrolo[3,2-f]quinazoline-1,3-diamine, AMPQD, a molecule with no reported inhibition of DHFR, potently inhibits the enzyme with a Ki value of 7.42 ± 0.92 nM by competitive displacement of the substrate dihydrofolic acid. It shows uncompetitive inhibition vis-avis NADPH indicating that the inhibitor has markedly increased affinity for the NADPH-bound form of the enzyme. Further, we demonstrate that the mode of binding of the inhibitor to the enzyme-NADPH binary complex conforms to the slow-onset, tight-binding model. On the contrary, mechanistic characterization of the parent molecule 7H-pyrrolo[3,2-f] quinazoline-1,3-diamine, PQD, shows that the lack of (4-aminophenyl)-methyl group at the 7th position abolishes the slow-onset of inhibition. This finding provides novel insights on the role of substitutions on inhibitors of E. coli DHFR and represents the first detailed kinetic investigation of a novel diaminopyrroloquinazoline derivative on a prokaryotic DHFR. Furthermore, marked differences in the potency of inhibition for the E. coli and human DHFR makes this molecule a promising candidate for development as an antibiotic.
SOME EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE OF THE STRENGTHS OF LINKAGES BETWEEN GROUPS OF RELATED INDUSTRIES IN URBAN‐REGIONAL COMPLEXES

Recepitulating the main tentative findings, it appears that multivariate analysis may be a useful tool for analyzing linkages existing in regional economies. The sample of input-output tables so far examined was far too small for any regularities to emerge. Nonetheless, the pervasiveness of links based on spatial proximity rather than technical affinity in the first subsystem falls in line with theoretical considerations and deserves careful attention. Other limitations inherent in the use of a fixed coefficients production function underlying an input-output table and the dependence of the results upon accidents of an industrial classification developed for other purposes, especially in the treatment of services, have already been mentioned.
Peripheral benzodiazepine receptors and glucose metabolism in human gliomas.

Peripheral benzodiazepine receptors (PBR) are increased in gliomas and augmented glucose metabolism is seen in malignant brain tumors. We investigated the relationship between PBR density (Bmax) and glucose utilization rate (GUR) in 17 patients with cerebral gliomas of different grades. PBR Bmax was assessed by [3H]PK-11195in vitro binding in surgical specimens and GUR was measured by Positron Emission Tomography with [18F]2-Fluorodeoxyglucose before the surgery. In untreated tumors there was a positive correlation between PBR Bmax and GUR (2r = 0.84). This correlation was not observed in patients who had been treated with radiation and/or chemotherapy prior to surgery (r2 = 0.13). In addition, in untreated patients, the increase in PBR density and GUR appeared to be related to the degree of malignancy.
Longitudinal and cross-sectional data collection and analysis in the study of crime and delinquency

In response to recent debates about the utility of longitudinal as opposed to cross-sectional designs in the study of crime and delinquency, we examine empirical evidence on the extent to which longitudinal and cross-sectional data may be used interchangeably without altering substantive conclusions. We distinguish between longitudinal or cross-sectional methods of data collection and longitudinal or cross-sectional data, and acknowledge that longitudinal data may be collected by using a cross-sectional method. We examine the extent to which longitudinal data collected cross-sectionally are compatible with longitudinal data collected in a prospective longitudinal design. We then compare correlations and predictive models that use cross-sectional and longitudinal data to study the same substantive problem. We conclude with an examination of the issue of temporal order as a test of competing hypotheses. We find that longitudinal data collected in a cross-sectional design do not consistently produce the same...
Effect of cholesterol-loaded cyclodextrin on the cryosurvival of bull sperm.

Abstract Bull sperm were treated with several levels of cholesterol-loaded cyclodextrin (CLC) and frozen in egg yolk diluents containing either Tris or sodium citrate, to determine the CLC concentration that best benefits bull sperm cryosurvival. After thawing, higher percentages of motile (60%) and viable (55%) sperm were obtained when 1.5 mg/ml CLC was added to sperm prior to freezing, than for sperm frozen in egg yolk Tris alone (42 and 46%, respectively; P P P >0.05). The beneficial effects of CLC addition were observed regardless of whether sperm incubated with CLC at 22 or 37 °C ( P >0.05) and maximum effects were observed when sperm incubated with CLC for 15 min. Longer incubation times, up to 60 min, resulted in similar results ( P >0.05). The amount of cholesterol that incorporated into sperm, increased with increasing CLC concentration, in a linear fashion, and each sperm incorporates a similar amount of cholesterol (coefficient of variation=12.9 ± 0.7%). In addition, the cholesterol incorporates into all sperm membranes. Increasing membrane cholesterol levels, by adding CLCs to cells, prior to freezing, is a simple technology that increases the cryosurvival of bull sperm, and may benefit the cryosurvival of many cell types.
Inside a living cell

In the drawings presented here, I have attempted to combine molecular composition data with structural results for a well studied organism, Escherichia coli. The three square illustrations show three different portions of a typical E. coli cell, magnified one million times
A nuclear body in microsporocytes of Zea mays.

1. A structure called a “nuclear body” has been observed in microsporocytes of two plants of Zea mays. 2. The nuclear body consisted of a number of globules with dark-staining walls and light-staining centers, often enveloped in a light-staining substance that was probably also composed of globules. 3. Single globules and small aggregates of globules were first visible among the chromosomes at late leptotene or very early zygotene. Presumably single globule-primordia arose earlier, during late premeiotic interphase and leptotene. Larger aggregates were observed in early zygotene and the nuclear body sometimes appeared to be fully formed at zygotene. The nuclear body was single, or sometimes remained in two or three parts. It decreased in size in late diakinesis and disappeared in metaphase-I. 4. The nuclear body contained RNA and proteins but no DNA; tests for phospholipids were not made. 5. The nuclear bodies in Zea and Bromus have the same appearance and probably the same chemical constitution and development. 6. It is suggested that the nuclear body in Zea arises from materials released by the chromosomes, and expresses synthetic activities of the chromosomes at the beginning of meiosis.
Influence of angiotensin II-induced alterations in renal flow on excretion of cefonicid in isolated perfused rat kidneys.

Abstract The effects of variations in renal perfusate flow on the excretion of cefonicid was examined in isolated perfused rat kidneys. Cefonicid, an expanded-spectrum cephalosporin, is primarily eliminated by active tubular secretion and is neither metabolized nor reabsorbed in the isolated kidney. We used angiotensin II (AII), a strong vasoconstrictor hormone of the afferent and the efferent arterioles in the kidney, to determine whether the renal and secretion clearances, as well as the excretion ratio (ER = CLR/[fu x GFR], where CLR is renal clearance, fu is the unbound fraction, and GFR is glomerular filtration rate), of this low-extraction compound can be altered by a decreased perfusion flow. Control studies were performed in the absence (n = 5) and presence (n = 4) of AII; cefonicid studies were performed in the absence (n = 4) and presence (n = 5) of AII. AII (1 to 4 ng/min) and cefonicid (5 to 10 micrograms/min) were infused into the perfusate. Cefonicid was assayed by high-performance liquid chromatography, and its protein binding was determined by ultrafiltration. AII decreased the perfusate flow rate and increased the renal vascular resistance and filtration fraction of the isolated kidney in the presence and absence of cefonicid. The glomerular filtration rate remained unchanged among the groups. The fractional excretion of glucose was low and steady, indicating a well-preserved tubular function. Although the unbound fraction was unchanged between treatments, the renal and secretion clearances and the excretion ratio of cefonicid were reduced by about 40% in the presence of AII (excretion ratios, 10.3 without AII versus 6.03 with AII). These results suggest that the altered clearance parameters of cefonicid are the result of a flow-induced change in the intrinsic secretory transport of the drug.
Macular morphology and visual acuity in the comparison of age-related macular degeneration treatments trials.

Objective To describe the effects of treatment for 1 year with ranibizumab or bevacizumab on macular morphology and the association of macular morphology with visual acuity (VA) in eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Design Prospective cohort study within a randomized clinical trial. Participants Participants in the Comparison of Age-related Macular Degeneration Treatments Trials. Methods Participants were assigned randomly to treatment with ranibizumab or bevacizumab on a monthly or as-needed schedule. Optical coherence tomography (OCT), fluorescein angiography (FA), color fundus photography (FP), and VA testing were performed periodically throughout 52 weeks. Masked readers graded images. General linear models were applied to evaluate effects of time and treatment on outcomes. Main Outcome Measures Fluid type and location and thickness by OCT, size, and lesion composition on FP, FA, and VA. Results Intraretinal fluid (IRF), subretinal fluid (SRF), subretinal pigment epithelium fluid, and retinal, subretinal, and subretinal tissue complex thickness decreased in all treatment groups. A higher proportion of eyes treated monthly with ranibizumab had fluid resolution at 4 weeks, and the difference persisted through 52 weeks. At 52 weeks, there was little association between the presence of fluid of any type (without regard to fluid location) and the mean VA. However, at all time points, eyes with residual IRF, especially foveal IRF, had worse mean VA (9 letters) than those without IRF. Eyes with abnormally thin ( 212 μm) retinas had worse VA than those with normal thickness (120–212 μm). At week 52, eyes with larger neovascular lesions or with foveal scar had worse VA than eyes without these features. Conclusions Anti–vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy reduced lesion activity and improved VA in all treatment groups. At all time points, eyes with residual IRF had worse VA than those without. Eyes with abnormally thin or thick retinas, residual large lesions, and scar also had worse VA. Monthly ranibizumab dosing yielded more eyes with no fluid and an abnormally thin retina, although the long-term significance is unknown. These results have important treatment implications in eyes undergoing anti-VEGF therapy for neovascular AMD. Financial Disclosure(s) Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found after the references.