cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Spantide I decreases type I cytokines, enhances IL-10, and reduces corneal perforation in susceptible mice after Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection

Purpose To determine the effects of blocking substance P (SP) interactions with its major receptor (NK1-R) using the antagonist spantide I in susceptible mice infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Methods Immunohistochemistry and enzyme immunosorbent assay (EIA) tested levels of SP in the cornea of B6 and BALB/c mice. B6 mice were treated with spantide, and after infection, slit lamp examination; clinical score; bacterial counts; and myeloperoxidase (MPO), RT-PCR, ELISA, and polymorphonuclear (PMN) cell chemotaxis assays were performed. Results SP corneal levels were significantly elevated constitutively and after infection in the B6 more than in BALB/c mice. Spantide treatment of B6 mice significantly decreased the number of perforated corneas, bacterial counts, and PMNs. mRNA levels for type I cytokines (e.g., IFN-gamma) as well as MIP-2, IL-6, TNF-alpha, and IL-1beta (mRNA and protein) also were significantly reduced after spantide treatment. The type II cytokine IL-10 (mRNA and protein) was elevated, whereas TGF-beta mRNA levels were unchanged after spantide treatment. PMN chemotaxis was induced by SP and other neuropeptides in vitro, but was not affected by spantide I. mRNA for neurokinin-1-receptor-1 (NK-1R) was detected in the normal and infected corneas and on macrophages (Mphis), but not on PMNs (unstimulated or stimulated with endotoxin [LPS]). Spantide treatment of Mphis reduced IL-1beta after LPS+SP treatment but not after either alone. Conclusions The SP antagonist Spantide provides a novel approach to reduce type 1 and enhance the type 2 cytokine IL-10 in the infected cornea of B6 mice, leading to a significant reduction in corneal perforation and improved disease outcome.
Over the monochrome rainbow: Heteronormativity in ESL reading texts and textbooks

This exploratory study examines the reflection of heteronormativity in English as a Second Language (ESL) reading texts and textbooks aimed at a college-aged audience and a range of proficiency levels. Heteronormativity is the portrayal of the heterosexual sexual identity as the only acceptable and/or normal sexual identity option (Dalley & Campbell 2006). This is often realized through the presentation of only heterosexual relationship structures, while also lacking any alternative relationship structures. The sample for this study consisted of forty-five reading texts/textbooks (ntext = 14; ntextbook = 31). These sample materials were examined by looking for examples of normative relationships and family structures exhibited in the main prose, textual examples, visual elements, and question/discussion activities. After examining the samples, each sample was given a numerical rating on 1–3 nominal level scale; 1 being non-heteronormative, 2 being low-heteronormative, and 3 being heteronormative. The data were then broken down to examine heteronormativity ratings by publisher, text-type, proficiency level, and year of publication. Average heteronormativity ratings were then calculated for each category of the data. These averages were then compared for the types of materials (texts and textbooks) and publishers examined. Changes in the average heteronormativity rating for each 5-year period are also reported. This paper will conclude by highlighting the need for less heteronormative ESL reading materials as these materials often function as valuable identity resources for language learners, and they often allow instructors to create a more diverse classroom environment by queering the classroom discourse.
Predicting Bureaucratic Control: Evidence from the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments

The extent to which politicians control bureaucracies that are delegated authority over public policy involves fundamental positive and normative issues for the study of politics. Considerations related to such issues have stimulated a great deal of debate about whether the legislature exercises control over bureaucratic performance. However, establishing the measurable empirical conditions under which elected officials do and do not assure agency responsiveness remains unsettled. In light of this state of affairs, we try to determine whether it is possible to develop a general means of predicting control, or at least of predicting what we term “intent to control,” based on the assumption that legislators’ preferences toward agency responsiveness reflect the nature of the policy environment. Our application to the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 finds strong empirical evidence that statutory provisions vary predictably, depending upon whether legislators possess the requisite technical ability and are likely, or wish, to be held politically accountable. Our results indicate that control varies for reasons that fit well with our understanding of how elected officials deal with complexity and their own political situations. Our findings also imply that subtle, but measurable, differences in the specific policy environment are crucial for understanding control.
Isotope effect on the Raman spectrum of the pentagonal-pinch mode in C 60

We present a detailed experimental and theoretical study of the ${A}_{g}$(2) Raman spectrum of pure and isotopically mixed C${}_{60}$ molecules. The spectrum shows a striking correlation with the mass spectrum of the molecule, consistent with a simple nondegenerate perturbation analysis. Comparisons with nonperturbative calculations using several first-principles and phenomenological dynamical models show that the study of this phenomenon can provide a stringent test of vibrational models for C${}_{60}.$
An Upper Limit for the Effect of 60 Hz Magnetic Fields on Bioluminescence for the Photobacterium Vibrio fischeri

Abstract Bioluminescence from Vibrio fischeri was measured in the presence and absence of 60 Hz magnetic fields. The peak value of the field was ≍1.3 mT, a value approximately 13 times the Earth′s background static field and comparable to the AC field near heavy-duty electrical equipment such as generators. The objective of this work was a search for causality between the applied magnetic field and a basic biological function at the biochemical, membrane or cellular level based on the direct linkage of bioluminescence to many of the cells mandatory functions such as enzyme (luciferase) activity, electron transport, proton translocation, iron uptake, oxidative metabolism, and cellular communication via the autoinduccr N-]3-oxohexanoyl] homoserine lactone. A variation in the activity of any one of these functions will cause a change in bioluminescence. The key result of this work is that, for a signal to noise ratio of 1:1, an effect, if present at all, must be less than 1% of the baseline level of continuously monitored bioluminescence.
Constructal T-shaped fins

Abstract This paper reports the geometric (constructal) optimization of T-shaped fin assemblies, where the objective is to maximize the global thermal conductance of the assembly, subject to total volume and fin-material constraints. Assemblies of plate fins and cylindrical fins are considered. It is shown that every geometric feature of the assembly is delivered by the optimization principle and the constraints. These optimal features are reported in dimensionless terms for this entire class of fin assemblies. Corresponding results are developed for more evolved versions of the T-shaped assembly, namely, the tau-shaped assembly where the free ends of the thinner fins are bent, the tau-shaped assembly that is narrower than the space allocated to it, and the umbrella-shaped construct containing cylindrical fins. The results show that some of the optimized geometrical features are relatively robust, i.e., insensitive to changes in some of the design parameters.
Automated labeling in document images

The National Library of Medicine (NLM) is developing an automated system to produce bibliographic records for its MEDLINER database. This system, named Medical Article Record System (MARS), employs document image analysis and understanding techniques and optical character recognition (OCR). This paper describes a key module in MARS called the Automated Labeling (AL) module, which labels all zones of interest (title, author, affiliation, and abstract) automatically. The AL algorithm is based on 120 rules that are derived from an analysis of journal page layouts and features extracted from OCR output. Experiments carried out on more than 11,000 articles in over 1,000 biomedical journals show the accuracy of this rule-based algorithm to exceed 96%.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Comparison of the effects of salbutamol and clenbuterol on skeletal muscle mass and carcass composition in senescent rats

Aging decreases skeletal muscle mass and strength, making elderly subjects particularly vulnerable to catabolic effects of age-related diseases. Clenbuterol, a muscle anabolic beta 2-adrenergic agonist, has reduced or restored skeletal muscle losses in experimental catabolic states. However, the doses of clenbuterol used to prevent or reverse muscle wasting in most animal models have exceeded the estimated safe dose in man. Recently, another beta 2-adrenergic agonist, salbuamol (albuterol), has been shown to increase muscle weight and protein content in young rats at a dose similar to that used clinically. In contrast to clenbuterol, salbutamol is currently approved for human use as a bronchodilator in the United States. This study has compared the muscle and protein anabolic effects of salbutamol at a clinically relevant dose with those of clenbuterol at a dose typically used in animal models of muscle wasting. Salbutamol and clenbuterol were administered by implanted osmotic minipumps to Fisher-344 rats aged 3 and 24 months at doses of 1.03 mg and 600 micrograms per kilogram per 24 hours for 3 weeks. The weights of five hindlimb muscles, as well as carcass protein and fat content, were determined. Salbutamol and clenbuterol increased combined hindlimb muscle weight 19% and 28% in young rats, with 19% and 25% increases in old rats. Similarly, these drugs increased gastrocnemius weight and protein content 19% and 24% in young rats, with 19% and 23% increases in old rats. Salbutamol and clenbuterol increased carcass protein content 20% and 30% in young rats, with 12% and 21% increases in old rats.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Preterm Infant With a Flat, Erythematous Patch

A 27-weeks'-gestation female infant was found to have a flat, erythematous patch over the left patella with irregular margins that appeared vascular on day 7 after birth (Figure). ### Prenatal and Birth Histories: ### Presentation: The infant had stable vital signs with no rashes or evidence of bleeding. The lesion was documented and followed clinically while in the NICU. On day 7 after birth, the dermatology service was consulted due to location and rapid growth of the lesion. ### Vital Signs: ### Physical Examination:
Alcohol dependence and taste-mediated learning in the rat☆

Alcohol dependence and taste-mediated learning were investigated in the rat using intubation procedure to produce dependence, an experimenter-controlled conditioned stimulus (CS) flavor infusion procedure, and behavioral criteria to assign conditioning alcohol dosage. Stress produced by the experimental procedures (e.g., handling, stomach distention) produced flavor aversions, and these aversions were attenuated by small alcohol doses. When stress was reduced and made less associable with the flavor CS, alcohol dependence, by itself, did not protect against the development of alcohol-induced taste aversions. Alcohol withdrawal produced aversions for an associated flavor, but these aversions were attenuated by pairing the flavor with small doses of alcohol. Thus, the relief of alcohol withdrawal illness did not produce preferences for associated flavors, but it did protect against the development of taste aversions.
A note on the individuality of the intake of drinking water by dairy cows

The individual water intakes of 16 (four groups of four) lactating dairy cows, measured on 7 consecutive days, were significantly correlated with dry-matter (DM) intakes (range 4·6 to 14·4 kg/day) and milk yields (range 13·7 to 30·0 kg/day). There was no significant correlation with DM content of the feed (range 833 to 898 g/kg), body weight (range 400 to 620 kg) or mean air temperature (range 7·0 to 20·0°C). Applying a multiple regression analysis to the data, the following relationship was obtained: water intake (kg/day) = 2·15 (± 0·415) × DM intake (kg/day)+0·73 (± 0·197) × milk yield (kg/day) + 12·3 (+ 5·57). After adjusting the data for variations in DM intake and milk yield there was no significant difference between the mean daily water intakes of individual cows. There was, however, a significant day-to-day variation in the mean water intakes of the groups of four cows (P<001) which was not explained by variations in DM intake, milk yield or mean daily temperature.
DISMEMBERED V-FLAP PYELOPLASTY

ABSTRACTPurpose: We present a modified technique of pyeloplasty that seems ideally suited for reoperative as well as primary repair of ureteropelvic junction obstruction due to high ureteral insertion.Materials and Methods: This repair combines the dismembered technique with creation of a V-flap of renal pelvis by dividing and incising through the ureteropelvic junction superolateral onto the pelvis to a height above the most dependent portion of the pelvis just exceeding the length of ureteral spatulation. The V-flap is completed by an inferolateral incision directed toward the lateral aspect of the pelvis at its most dependent portion. The tip of the V-flap is then flipped down and approximated to the apex of the posterior ureteral spatulation. Of the 12 cases managed by this procedure 2 were reoperative and 10 involved select primary repair with high ureteral insertion at the ureteropelvic junction. Patient age was 3 months to 17 years (median 11 months). Two procedures were performed via a dorsal lumb...
Effect of bilateral hippocampal destruction on the acquisition and extinction of an operant response

Abstract Rats suffering radical bilateral hippocampal destruction, partial, destruction of the posterolateral neocortex (control animals), and unoperated rats were given long experience with CRF (continuous reinforcement) and then shifted to a simple extinction schedule. Twice during the extinction phase of the experiment, the animals were given 30 response-contingent reinforcements. The hippocampectomized subjects were not found to respond more than the other animals on the CRF or extinction schedules; but did, however, show greater increases in their bar press rates after experiencing the 30 reinforced responses. An activity measure was taken of all animals before and after certain training sessions. Hours of food deprivation were found to differentially affect the activity levels of the lesioned and non-lesioned subjects.
Similarity in Self-Esteem as a Function of Duration of Marriage among Student Couples:

The Tennessee Self-concept Scale was administered to a university sample of 54 married couples in an earlier study. Although the self-esteem scores of husbands and wives were moderately correlated and relatively close in magnitude, the scores did not tend to converge with length of marriage, supporting the hypothesis that mate-selection processes are responsible for the observed similarity in self-esteem between husbands and wives.
Approximate solutions of periodic motions in nonlinear systems via a generalized harmonic balance

In this paper, the generalized harmonic balance method is presented for approximate, analytical solutions of periodic motions in nonlinear dynamical systems. The nonlinear damping, periodically forced, Duffing oscillator is studied as a sample problem. The approximate, analytical solution of period-1 periodic motion of such an oscillator is obtained by the generalized harmonic balance method. The stability and bifurcation analysis of the HB2 approximate solution of period-1 motions in the forced Duffing oscillator is carried out, and the parameter map for such HB2 solutions is achieved. Numerical illustrations of period-1 motions are presented. Similarly, the same ideas can be extended to period-k motions in such an oscillator. The methodology presented in this paper can be applied to other nonlinear vibration systems, which are independent of small parameters.
Characterizations of Carrot thin leaf virus based on host reactions and complete genomic sequences

Host range of a cilantro isolate of Carrot thin leaf virus (CTLV-Cs) was determined to include 15 plant species. The virus was also transmitted to nine of 11 tested apiaceous species by aphids. Complete genomic sequences of CTLV-Cs and a carrot isolate of CTLV (CTLV-Dc) were determined to be 9,491 and 9,490 nucleotides, respectively, excluding the 3′-poly(A) tail. Sequence analyses showed that the two isolates shared 98 % identities at both genomic and polyprotein sequence levels. Their genomic organization is typical of potyviruses, and their polyproteins contain conserved motifs found in members of the genus Potyvirus. Pairwise comparisons show that the virus shares 52.0–59.6 % identities to those of other members in the genus Potyvirus at genomic sequence level. Phylogenetic analyses confirm that CTLV is a distinct potyvirus most closely related to Konjac mosaic virus. Both biological and molecular results also showed that the two CTLV isolates were very similar although they were isolated from different hosts at different times.
Experimental studies of growth kinetics of silicon by remote plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition at low temperatures

In this work, the growth kinetics of silicon by Remote Plasma-enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (RPCVD) have been investigated. Growth rate has been characterized for temperatures ranging from 150°C to 480°C, r-f powers between 4 and 8 W, 5 -30 sccm of diluted (2%) silane flow, and 200 mTorr chamber pressure. The growth rate has been found to be relatively insensitive to silane partial pressure, indicating that dissociation of silane is not likely to be the rate limiting step. The activation energy for growth changes at -'325°C, and this is believed to be due to a change in the stable hydrogen termination of the silicon surface at this temperature. This implies that the rate limiting step for the reaction is hydrogen desorption. Growth rate dependence on substrate bias suggests that argon ions are responsible for driving the surface reactions.
Estrogen and Raloxifene Activities on Amyloid-β-Induced Inflammatory Reaction

The prevalence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in women is double that of men. Several studies indicate that use of estrogen after menopause by women may reduce the risk of developing AD. The risk of estrogen-dependent tumors associated with estrogen replacement therapy has prompted the use of alternatives, like the SERM raloxifene, which exert estrogen agonist effects on selected target tissues. Whether SERMS provide cognitive and cardiovascular benefits comparable to those of estrogens is an active area of investigation in women's health. A chronic inflammatory process is central to the pathology of Alzheimer's disease. Using an animal model we compared the anti-inflammatory activity of orally administered estrogens (2 mg/kg) and raloxifene (3 mg/kg) in ovariectomized rats. Morphological analysis of Abeta(1-40)-induced inflammatory reaction featured adhesion and transmigration of leukocytes across the vessel wall, endothelial disruption, and platelet activation. Estrogen showed remarkable anti-inflammatory action, whereas raloxifene had no significant beneficial effect. Inhibition of the inflammatory process may contribute to the reported efficacy of estrogen in the treatment of AD.
Indications, results, and complications of tacrolimus conversion in pediatric renal transplantation

It is the practice of many pediatric renal transplant programs to convert' children taking cyclosporin A (CsA) to tacrolimus, although the indications for, outcome, and complications of this practice remain obscure. To better understand these aspects of tacrolimus conversion', a fax survey was sent to 119 North American pediatric renal transplant centers. Analyzable responses were received from 52 centers (44%), and included data from 1,815 pediatric renal transplants performed between 1991 and 98. Strong indications for tacrolimus conversion were: antibody-resistant rejection, CsA-resistant rejection, and CsA intolerance (strong indication in 72%, 65%, and 52% of centers, respectively). Steroid-resistant rejection and cosmetic side-effects were considered strong indications less often. Initial anti-rejection therapy was usually increased corticosteroid dose (47/52 centers). Antibody therapy was most commonly used for steroid-resistant rejection (44 centers). For steroid- and antibody-resistant rejection, tacrolimus conversion was most common (33 centers). Tacrolimus conversion for antibody-resistant rejection led to improvement of serum creatinine (SCr) in 27% of patients, stabilization of SCr in 46%, worsening of SCr in 11%, and graft loss in 16%. Reported complications after tacrolimus conversion included hyperglycemia, hyperkalemia, lymphoproliferative disorder, infection, and neurologic problems. We conclude that the major indication for tacrolimus conversion in pediatric transplant programs appears to be rejection. Outcome after tacrolimus conversion appears good, with the majority of patients experiencing stable or improved allograft function. These data provide direction for further study, including timing of tacrolimus conversion and interaction with other therapies.
Electronic medical records and quality of cancer care.

The implementation of electronic medical records (EMR) systems was mandated by the U.S. federal government in large part due to research indicating that difficulty accessing clinical data was one of the most common causes of preventable deaths. Several assumptions were implicit in this mandate, including the assumption that the implementation of EMR would indeed improve clinicians’ access to clinical data, that implementation of EMR would pose little to no risk to patients, and that the clinical benefit of improved access to clinical data would outweigh any risks that might arise. As detailed in this review, both formal research and extensive experiential observation have called all three assumptions into question. Specifically, as detailed below, there is clear evidence that EMR systems are associated with multiple specific risks to patients, whereas few, if any, scientifically rigorous outcomes-based studies have demonstrated that the potential benefits of EMR outweigh the known risks. In addition, there is currently little to no scientifically rigorous evidence that EMR systems constitute a cost-effective methodology for improving patient outcomes.
Sixteen-row multislice computed tomography in infants with double aortic arch

Abstract Background: The introduction of multislice computed tomography (MSCT) in 1998 has led to a considerable boost of CT angiography. Four-row MSCT has been employed in the diagnostic assessment of vascular rings. Sixteen-row MSCT is expected to further increase the diagnostic power of MSCT. We report three cases of double aortic arch diagnosed by a 16-row MSCT, and discuss the possible advantages of this diagnostic tool. Patients and Methods: From April 1, 2003, to September 1, 2003, three patients underwent 16-row MSCT at our institution to evaluate the possible presence of a vascular ring. All patients presented with stridor and feeding difficulties. MSCT was performed under bland sedation (chloral hydrate 60 mg/kg). ECG gating and breath hold were not employed. Three-dimensional reconstructions were employed to assess the presence of airway compromise as well as of vascular anomalies. Results: Scanning time averaged 4 s (3.8–4.5 s). Motion artefacts were not relevant. The CT scan showed the existence of a vascular anomaly as well as of a significant tracheal compression in all cases, and was considered conclusively diagnostic by the cardiac surgeons. All three patients underwent uncomplicated corrective surgery without further investigations. Conclusion: Sixteen-row MSCT with 3D reconstruction allows a precise evaluation of the airway compromise and a detailed assessment of the anatomy of vascular anomalies. The very short scanning time allows to avoid deep sedation and anaesthesia, and to obtain higher image quality and spatial resolution, with a concomitant reduction of the radiation dose.
Increased atypical PKC expression and activity in the phrenic motor nucleus following cervical spinal injury.

Atypical protein kinase C (aPKC) isoforms are expressed in phrenic motor neurons, a group of motor neurons critical for breathing. Following C2 cervical hemisection (C2HS), spontaneous plasticity occurs in crossed-spinal synaptic pathways to phrenic motor neurons, at least partially restoring inspiratory phrenic activity below the injury. Since aPKCs are necessary for synaptic plasticity in other systems, we tested the hypothesis that C2HS increases aPKC expression and activity in spinal regions associated with the phrenic motor nucleus. C2 laminectomy (sham) or C2HS was performed on adult, male Lewis rats. Ventral spinal segments C3–5 were harvested 1, 3 or 28 days post-surgery, and prepared for aPKC enzyme activity assays and immunoblots. Ventral cervical aPKC activity was elevated 1 and 28, but not 3, days post-C2HS (1 day: 63% vs sham ipsilateral to injury; p < 0.05; 28 day: 426% vs sham; p < 0.05; no difference in ipsilateral vs contralateral response). Total PKCζ/ι protein expression was unchanged by C2HS, but total and phosphorylated PKMζ (constitutively active PKCζ isoform) increased ipsilateral to injury 28 days post-C2HS (p < 0.05). Ipsilateral aPKC activity and expression were strongly correlated (r2 = 0.675, p < 0.001). In a distinct group of rats, immunohistochemistry confirmed that aPKCs are expressed in neurons 28 days post-C2HS, including large, presumptive phrenic motor neurons; aPKCs were not detected in adjacent microglia (OX-42 positive cells) or astrocytes (GFAP positive cells). Changes in aPKC expression in the phrenic motor nucleus following C2HS suggests that aPKCs may contribute to functional recovery following cervical spinal injury.
The Relation of Soybean Hay and Ground Soybeans to Flavor and Composition of Milk and Butter

Summary Three groups of eight cows each were fed during six consecutive weekly periods on rations consisting of either red clover hay or soybean hay, and a concentrate mixture with or without ground soybeans. The ground soybeans, when fed, formed from 10 to 25 per cent of the mixtures. The milk produced was used in studies of flavor and composition, and butter was made from the cream. Neither high quality, nor poor quality, moldy soybean hay was found to have any effect upon the flavor of the milk (raw or pasteurized), skim milk, cream, or butter. Ground soybeans were likewise without effect on flavor. The fat content of the milk was affected but slightly, and the acidity was not changed appreciably. Marked differences in cream volume were noted but these seemed to be associated with individual cows. The most pronounced effects of the rations were upon the body of the butter. Ground soybeans caused the body to be gummy and the condition became worse when the proportion of soybeans in the ration was increased. Soybean hay had a similar effect but to a less degree. There was a tendency for the iodine number to increase slightly with the larger amounts of soybeans in the ration.
Democratic Renewal and Cultural Inertia: Why Our Best Efforts Fall Short

Sociological research is often inspired by a desire to ameliorate social problems. Yet sparse attention is devoted to the broader reasons why social problems persist. Popular interpretations ultimately prove unsatisfactory because they focus on such culprits as human nature, poor government policies, incompetence, or opponents of reform. I propose that sociologists need to take culture more seriously than they often do. Culture is not simply a set of scripts that permit us to accomplish whatever we want. It also consists of foundational narratives about ourselves and our society that generally go unquestioned. Recognizing the power of these deep narratives is the first step toward studying culture in a way that also facilitates democratic renewal.
Trace determination of aqueous sulfite, sulfide, and methanethiol by fluorometric flow injection analysis

Preservation of sulfite, sulfide, and methanethiol in buffered formaldehyde and oxaldihydroxamic acid stabilizers has been studied. Flow injection analysis procedures that involve T mixing or membrane-based reagent introduction have been developed for the fast (24 samples/h) analysis of these anions based upon the reaction with N-acridinylmaleimide in a water-N,N-dimethylformamide medium to form a fluorescent product. Detection limits are 0.04, 0.60, and 0.80 ..mu..M, respectively, for the three sulfur species; differential analysis is possible.
Pluralism and Particularism: Friends or Foes?.

A major challenge facing Christian higher education is how to interact with a pluralistic society. This challenge is encountered in many venues such as community involvement, accountability to churches at large, and the various activities within a particular school (college or university) itself as it conducts business, including teaching. A recent article notes that Christian higher education is becoming increasingly secularized. One response to this development is the desire by some to reverse this trend and return Christian colleges to their roots (Hamilton, 2005). The issue is not cut and dried, for is a school simply to be the “defender of the faith” or is it to be a place where one and all can engage many ideas and disciplines with freedom of thought? Or both? This challenge is faced by many Christians serving in higher education and becomes especially acute in a Christian school promoting a liberal arts education.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and the risk of incident gonococcal or chlamydial genital infection in a predominantly black population.

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess in prospective data whether bacterial vaginosis (BV) is associated with gonococcal/chlamydial cervicitis. Study: A total of 1179 women at high risk for sexually transmitted infections was followed for a median of 3 years. Every 6 to 12 months, vaginal swabs were obtained for Gram stain, culture of microflora, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis. A Gram stain score of 7 to 10 based on the Nugent criteria categorized BV. Results: Baseline BV was associated with concurrent gonococcal/chlamydial infection (adjusted odds ratio, 2.83; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.81–4.42). However, the association between BV and subsequent, incident gonococcal/chlamydial genital infection was not significant (adjusted relative risk [RR], 1.52; 95% CI, 0.74–3.13). Dense growth of pigmented, anaerobic Gram-negative rods (adjusted RR, 1.93; 95% CI, 0.97–3.83) appeared to elevate the risk for newly acquired gonococcal/chlamydial genital infection. Conclusions: BV was common among a predominantly black group of women with concurrent gonococcal/chlamydial infection but did not elevate the risk for incident infection.
Parent support and education programs

Parent support and education programs are receiving renewed attention as a vehicle for strengthening parenting and addressing other support needs in low-income families. In this paper the author reviews the theoretical rationale, situational context and empirical basis for these programs.
Physical properties study on partially bio-based lubricant blends: thermally modified soybean oil with popular commercial esters

Thermally polymerised soybean oil (SBO) is compared with several other vegetable oils, including ordinary SBO and high-oleic SBO (HO SBO). Acid values (AVs) and kinematic viscosities of the oils were measured over 28 days on oils stored at 85°C. As expected, the AVs and viscosities increased with time and the HO SBO demonstrated similar but smaller effects. The thermally modified oil was not better than ordinary SBO necessitating the need for an optimised blending strategy. Lubricant blends were prepared by mixing thermally modified SBO with a series of compatible ester-based synthetic fluids. These displayed oxidative stabilities, by pressurised differential scanning calorimetry, similar to the bio-based oil. Furthermore, the kinematic viscosity and pour point of the lubricant blend could be accurately controlled by careful tuning of the blend ratio.
Characteristics of translocation (16;16)(p13;q22) acute myeloid leukemia

A subgroup of patients with core binding factor acute myeloid leukemias (AML) is characterized by the presence of the fusion gene CBFb-Myh11. At the cytogenetic level, most of these patients are identified by the presence of an inversion of chromosome 16 [inv(16)(p13q22)] and rarely by a translocation t(16;16)(p13;q22). The aim of this study is to describe the natural history of patients with t(16;16) [N = 6] treated at MD Anderson Cancer Center and compared them with a cohort of patients with inv(16)(p13q22) [n = 61]. In patients with t(16;16) the complete remission rate (CR) was 100% when treated with a combination of fludarabine and high-dose cytarabine. Median overall survival (OS) had not been achieved. There was no difference in response or OS or progression free survival between both groups. Presence of additional chromosomal abnormalities and molecular aberrations had no effect on prognosis. In conclusion, and consistent with previous reports, the natural history of patients with t(16:16)(p13;q22) is similar to that of classic patients with inv16 AML and therefore should be treated similarly.
A Role for Thyroid Hormone in Wound Healing Through Keratin Gene Expression

The importance of thyroid hormone (TH) in wound healing is not well understood. To gain insight, we evaluated the impact of TH deficiency on wound-healing genes in cultured keratinocytes. By RT-PCR, keratin 6a (K6a) and 16 (K16) gene expression in TH replete cells was 3.8- (P < 0.005) and 1.9-fold (P < 0.05) greater, respectively, than expression in TH-deficient cells. By real-time PCR, TH replete cell expression of K6a, K16, and K17 was greater than in deficient cells: 18- (P < 0.001), 10- (P < 0.001), and 4-fold (P < 0.005), respectively. To examine TH requirement for optimal wound healing, we contrasted TH-deficient vs. ip T(3)-treated mice. Four days after wounding, ip T(3)-treated mice had twice the degree of wound closure as hypothyroid mice (P < 0.001). By RT-PCR, K6a and K17 gene expression from control mouse skin was greater than from hypothyroid mouse skin: 5- (P < 0.001) and 1.7-fold (P < 0.05), respectively. T(3) is necessary for the keratinocyte proliferation required for optimal wound healing. T(3) exerts influence by stimulating expression of the wound-healing keratin genes. Thus, for hypothyroid patients undergoing surgery that cannot be delayed until euthyroidism is achieved, our data support T(3) treatment for the perioperative period.
BIOAVAILABILITY OF LYSINE FROM A LIQUID LYSINE SOURCE IN CHICKS

Abstract Two experiments were conducted to assess the bioavailability of lysine from a liquid lysine product (LLP; 60% lysine) relative to crystalline L-lysine.HCl. In the first experiment, four groups of five chicks were fed a lysine-deficient basal diet containing corn, soybean meal, and feather meal or the basal diet supplemented with 0.1 or 0.2% lysine from L-lysine.HCl or LLP from Day 8 to 22 posthatching. Weight gain and feed efficiency responded linearly (P 0.05) in the response to lysine from L-lysine.HCl or LLP. Experiment 2 was conducted using a lysine-deficient basal diet containing corn, peanut meal, and feather meal, and all diets were fed to five groups of five chicks from Day 8 to 21 posthatching. Treatment additions again consisted of 0.1 or 0.2% lysine from L-lysine.HCl or LLP. Weight gain and feed efficiency responded linearly (P 0.05) in the response to lysine from L-lysine.HCl or LLP. These data indicate that lysine from LLP is fully bioavailable relative to lysine from crystalline L-lysine.HCl, and could therefore be used as a source of lysine in practical poultry diets.
Insecticidal Soap and the Predatory Mite, Phytoseiulus persimilis (Acari: Phytoseiidae), Used in Management of the Twospotted Spider Mite (Acari: Tetranychidae) on Greenhouse Grown Foliage Plants

The lowest rate of Safer’s Insecticidal Soap effective in controlling Tetranychus urticae Koch adults (12.5 ml/liter) caused 100% mortality to Phytosetulus persimilis Athias-Henriot adults in standard slide-dip tests. At the same rate, however, ca. 60% of T. urticae eggs eclosed as compared to ca. 95% in P. persimilis . The ability of this predator to control T. urticae was not impaired on infested Brassaia actinophylla Endl. when plants were sprayed with soap 3 days after predator release. In another study, the number of mitedays accumulated 22 days after predators were released reached 2,214 on plants treated with soap 3 days after predator release, compared to 5,389 in the treatment involving predators only.
Individualizing Mesothelioma Treatment: Small Steps Into a Brighter Future

development of more effective therapies for mesothelioma, with an emphasis on individualizing mesothelioma treatment, thus remains of great interest. Mesothelioma is a disease that presents unique challenges but also significant opportunities for the development of personalized medicine. Its relative rarity, biologic heterogeneity, and inherent chemotherapy- and radiation-resistance continue to challenge efforts to discover and develop novel therapeutic strategies that can be validated in well powered randomized clinical trials. However, the availability of pleural tumor from diagnostic pleural biopsies and pleurectomy specimens provides a distinct opportunity for molecular/genetic studies that can yield prognostic and predictive biomarkers upon which individualized therapy can be designed. We expect current therapeutic strategies to evolve based on a number of recent, ground breaking studies as well as preclinical studies and clinical trials that are currently under way. Herein, we discuss opportunities for individualizing both local and systemic therapy, highlighting how mesothelioma treatment may progress over the course of the upcoming decade.
Time-driven Activity-based Costing More Accurately Reflects Costs in Arthroplasty Surgery

Background Cost estimates derived from traditional hospital cost accounting systems have inherent limitations that restrict their usefulness for measuring process and quality improvement. Newer approaches such as time-driven activity-based costing (TDABC) may offer more precise estimates of true cost, but to our knowledge, the differences between this TDABC and more traditional approaches have not been explored systematically in arthroplasty surgery.
Speed and ease of tracheal intubation : priming with mivacurium compared with succinylcholine

This study examined the efficacy of mivacurium priming (0.015 mg · kg−1) with five minutes between the priming and intubating doses by comparing the effects of one, two and three times the ED95 dose (0.075 mg · kg−1) of mivacurium after priming (Groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively), with a saline prime and 2 × ED95 mivacurium (Group 4) or 1 mg · kg−1 dose of succinylcholine (Group 5). The time from the intubating dose injection to intubation was measured and intubating conditions were rated on a five-point scale with 4 being optimal and 0 being failure. Mean times (± SEM) in seconds between the administration of the intubating dose and tracheal intubation were: 106.4 ± 5.1, 89.6 ± 6.7, 81.9 ± 2.7, 169.9 ± 7.8 and 82.9 ± 3.5 for Groups 1–5 respectively. The times for Group 2 (2 × ED95 with priming), Group 3 (3 × ED95 with priming) and Group 5 (succinylcholine with saline) were shorter than the times of Groups 1 (1 × ED95 with priming) and 4 (2 × ED95 with saline) P < 0.05. Mean intubating condition scores (± SD) for the five groups respectively were 3.1 ± 0.6, 3.4 ± 0.6, 3.5 ± 0.5, 3.2 ± 0.6 and 3.8 ± 0.4. Scores for Groups 2, 3 and 5 were higher than those of Group 1 (P < 0.05). The data demonstrated that (1) priming with mivacurium shortens the intubation time and is accompanied by good intubating conditions with doses 2× and 3× ED95, and (2) intubating times and conditions similar to those achieved with succinylcholine can be obtained using mivacurium 2× (total dose 0.150 mg · kg−1) or3 × ED95 (total dose 0.215 mg · kg−1) with a five-minute priming interval. Priming provides an alternative technique in those clinical circumstances where succinylcholine is contraindicated.
‘Heads and tails’ of intermediate filament phosphorylation: multiple sites and functional insights

Intermediate filaments (IFs) are major components of the mammalian cytoskeleton. They are among the most abundant cellular phosphoproteins; their phosphorylation typically involves multiple sites at repeat or unique motifs, preferentially within the ‘head’ or ‘tail’ domains. Phosphorylation and dephosphorylation are essential for the regulation of IF dynamics by modulating the intrinsic properties of IFs: solubility, conformation and filament organization, and, in addition, for the regulation of other IF post-translational modifications. These phosphorylation-regulated properties dictate generalized and context-dependent IF functions that reflect their tissue-specific expression. Most important among IF phosphorylation-mediated functions are the regulation of IF cellular or subcellular compartmentalization, levels and turnover, binding with associated proteins, susceptibility to cell stresses (including apoptosis), tissue-specific functions and IF-associated disease pathogenesis (where IF hyperphosphorylation also serves as a tissue-injury marker).
Factor Structure and Concurrent/Convergent Validity of the Modified Somatic Perception Questionnaire and Pain Beliefs Instrument

Abstract Objective Our goal was to create a parsimonious combination of the Modified Somatic Perception Questionnaire (MSPQ) and the Pain Beliefs Screening Instrument (PBSI) through factorial structural analysis and to investigate the associations of the new scale (if unique) to disability, health condition, and quality of life report in patients with neck and low back pain scheduled for spine fusion surgery. Methods Factor analysis was used to refine all items within the 2 scales to 4 distinct factors: (1) somatic complaints of the head/neck, (2) somatic complaints of the gastrointestinal symptom, (3) pain beliefs and fear, and (4) self perception of serious problems. Each factor was assessed for concurrent validity with other well-established tools including the Deyo comorbidity index, the Short Form (SF)–36 mental and physical component subscales, and the Oswestry and Neck Disability Indices (ODI/NDI). Results The PBSI was fairly to moderately correlated with assessment tools of quality of life (SF-36) and disability assessment (ODI/NDI). Some of the items in the factor 1 from the MSPQ were slightly associated with the Deyo comorbidity index but not with the ODI/NDI. Conclusions The items from the MSPQ failed to associate with measures of quality of life and disability and thus may provide only marginal value when assessing the multidimensional aspects associated with neck and low back pain. The PBSI has moderate correlation with disability assessments. Neither tool was found to strongly correlate with disability measures or with SF-36 scales (mental and physical component subscales). Additional tools may be needed to further identify the dimensions associated with chronic pain patients.
Reactivity of Zircaloy-4 with Ti3SiC2 and Ti2AlC in the 1100–1300 °C temperature range

Abstract Herein, we report on the interactions between zirconium, in the form of Zircaloy-4 (Zr-4) and the MAX phases, Ti3SiC2 and Ti2AlC in the 1100–1300 °C range. In both cases, the A-group element, Al or Si, diffused out of the MAX phases and formed intermetallics with the Zr-4. Under comparable conditions, Si penetration into the Zr-4 was roughly an order of magnitude less than that of the Al from the Ti2AlC. The effective diffusion coefficient of Si can be described by D eff _ Si m 2 s = 7.4 × 10 - 9 exp - 170 kJ / mol RT ; that of Al by D eff _ Al m 2 s = 9.3 × 10 - 12 exp - 38 kJ / mol RT . At 38 kJ/mol, the activation energy for the Ti2AlC/Zr-4 diffusion bonding process was significantly lower than that of the Ti3SiC2/Zr-4 diffusion couples, at 170 kJ/mol.
Subtyping of Streptococcus dysgalactiae and Streptococcus uberis Isolated from Bovine Mammary Secretions by DNA Fingerprinting

Summary Streptococcus dysgalactiae and Streptococcus uberis isolated from mammary secretions of cows from Tennessee and New Zealand were subtyped using polymerase chain reaction-based DNA fingerprinting. Such DNA fingerprinting using primer 8.6d (5′-GTAACGCC3′) resulted in categorizing 116 S. dysgalactiae isolates into 25 different subtypes, with 17 subtypes observed in isolates from Tennessee and eight in isolates from New Zealand. All S. dysgalactiae DNA fingerprint profiles, regardless of origin, contained 700- and 330-base pair fragments. The majority of S. dysgalactiae isolates (73%) from Tennessee belonged to two subtypes. The remaining 23 isolates belonged to 15 different DNA fingerprint subtypes. Streptococcus dysgalactiae isolates from New Zealand (n = 32) were grouped into eight different subtypes; 66% belonged to two subtypes. A characteristic feature of S. dysgalactiae isolates from New Zealand was the presence of a 270-base pair DNA fragment seen infrequently in S. dysgalactiae isolates from Tennessee. When primer OPE-4 (5′-GTGACATGCC-3′) was used, DNA fingerprinting differentiated S. uberis from Tennessee (n = 28) and New Zealand (n = 30) into 20 subtypes; 14 subtypes were observed in isolates from Tennessee, and six in isolates from New Zealand. All S. uberis DNA fingerprint profiles, regardless of origin, contained 1100-, 640-, and 450-base pair fragments. A characteristic feature of S. uberis isolates from New Zealand was the presence of a 300-base pair DNA fragment seen infrequently in S. uberis isolates from Tennessee. The most common subtypes of S. dysgalactiae and S. uberis from Tennessee herds were isolated in milk from lactating cows during monthly herd surveys, in milk from cows with clinical mastitis, and in mammary secretions from cows during the periparturient period, and thus were not confined to one particular stage of lactation. These data suggest that S. dysgalactiae and S. uberis from New Zealand are distinct from those isolated from the USA, and that DNA fingerprinting can be used as an epidemiological tool to differentiate streptococci and identify important sources of these mastitis pathogens on dairy farms.
Spatial localization in stochastic NMR imaging with oscillating gradients

Abstract A technique for spectroscopic imaging employing oscillating gradients for spatial encoding in conjunction with a stochastic RF excitation is proposed and analyzed. Localization functions are derived for a linearized model and compared with Bloch equation simulations. An implementation of the technique is described, and experimental point spread functions and a spectroscopic image (one spatial dimension and one chemical shift) are presented. Advantages of the technique are a large reduction in the peak RF power required relative to conventional pulse excitation and the elimination of switching transients through the use of oscillating gradients. Spectroscopic resolution and T 2 contrast maybe varied by postprocessing a single experimental data set.