cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
SU-F-18C-15: Model-Based Multiscale Noise Reduction On Low Dose Cone Beam Projection.

Purpose: To improve image quality of low dose cone beam CT for patient positioning in radiation therapy. Methods: In low dose cone beam CT (CBCT) imaging systems, Poisson process governs the randomness of photon fluence at x-ray source and the detector because of the independent binomial process of photon absorption in medium. On a CBCT projection, the variance of fluence consists of the variance of noiseless imaging structure and that of Poisson noise, which is proportional to the mean (noiseless) of the fluence at the detector. This requires multiscale filters to smoothen noise while keeping the structure information of the imaged object. We used a mathematical model of Poisson process to design multiscale filters and established the balance of noise correction and structure blurring. The algorithm was checked with low dose kilo-voltage CBCT projections acquired from a Varian OBI system. Results: From the investigation of low dose CBCT of a Catphan phantom and patients, it showed that our model-based multiscale technique could efficiently reduce noise and meanwhile keep the fine structure of the imaged object. After the image processing, the number of visible line pairs in Catphan phantom scanned with 4 ms pulse time was similar to that scanned with 32 ms, and soft tissue structure from simulated 4 ms patient head-and-neck images was also comparable with scanned 20 ms ones. Compared with fixed-scale technique, the image quality from multiscale one was improved. Conclusion: Use of projection-specific multiscale filters can reach better balance on noise reduction and structure information loss. The image quality of low dose CBCT can be improved by using multiscale filters.
Nanotailoring photocrosslinkable epoxy resins with multi-walled carbon nanotubes for stereolithography layered manufacturing

Exploiting nanostructured materials’ characteristics and properties in stereolithography (SL) may open new markets for unique rapidly manufactured functional devices. Controlled amounts of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were successfully dispersed in SL epoxy-based resins and complex three-dimensional (3D) parts were successfully fabricated by means of a modified SL setup. The effect of the nanosized filler was evaluated by means of mechanical testing. Small concentrations of MWCNTs resulted in significant effects on the physical properties of the polymerized resin. A MWCNT concentration of 0.05% (w/v) increased the ultimate tensile stress and fracture stress an average of 17% and 37%, respectively. Increasing the MWCNT concentration to 0.5% (w/v) enhanced the integrity of the nanocomposite samples over much wider operating temperatures. Sample parts were characterized by scanning and transmission electron microscopy to measure the impact of this particular nanomaterial on the morphology of the nanocomposite samples and results showed affinity between the constituents and identified buckled nanotubes that illustrated strong interfacial bonding. These improved physical properties may provide opportunities for using nanocomposite SL resins in end-use applications. Varying types and concentrations of nanomaterials can be used to tailor existing SL resins for particular applications.
Chronic exposure to delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol fails to irreversibly alter brain cannabinoid receptors.

The effects of chronicΔ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) and marijuana administration on the properties of brain cannabinoid receptor populations of the rat and monkey, respectively, were examined in this study. It was determined that the properties of the cannabinoid receptors in the striatum, cerebral cortex, cerebellum, hippocampus, and brainstem/spinal cord of the rat do not appear to be irreversibly altered by chronic exposure toΔ9-THC. Similarly, the cannabinoid receptors in the caudate, prefrontal cortex, and cerebellum of the monkey do not appear to be irreversibly altered by chronic exposure to marijuana smoke.
Rapidly Growing Mycobacterial Lung Infection in Association With Esophageal Disorders

Esophageal or other swallowing disorders complicated by lipoid pneumonia are reported to be associated with pulmonary infections caused by rapidly growing mycobacteria. Herein we describe a 63-year-old woman with achalasia of the esophagus complicated by lung infection with Mycobacterium chelonae and a 47-year-old man in whom long-term ingestion of mineral oil was complicated by lipoid pneumonia and M. fortuitum lung infection. A MEDLINE search of English language publications from 1966 to 1997 revealed 18 cases of lung infections caused by rapidly growing mycobacteria in patients with esophageal disorders. Of these 18 patients and our 2 patients, 11 were men and 9 were women (mean age, 50 years). Achalasia was present in 11 patients, and 6 had lipoid pneumonia without evidence of esophageal disorders. Three patients had lipoid pneumonia caused by lipoid ingestion in the setting of achalasia or another swallowing disorder. In 14 patients, lung infection was caused by M. fortuitum; in 5, M. chelonae; and in 1, a non-M. fortuitum rapidly growing mycobacterial infection. The most common clinical feature was fever, and the most common roentgenologic abnormality was the presence of unilateral or bilateral and patchy or dense infiltrates. The sputum was the most common source of isolation of rapidly growing mycobacteria. Achalasia and lipoid pneumonia are important risk factors for the development of lung infections caused by rapidly growing mycobacteria. Treatment of the esophageal disease might prevent occurrence of and facilitate recovery from these infections.
The simultaneous quantitation of ten amino acids in soil extracts by mass fragmentography.

A specific and sensitive method for the identification and simultaneous quantitation by mass fragmentography of ten of the amino acids present in soil was developed. The technique uses a computer driven quadrupole mass spectrometer and a commercial preparation of deuterated amino acids is used as internal standards for purposes of quantitation. The results obtained are comparable with those from an amino acid analyzer. In the quadrupole mass spectrometer-computer system up to 25 pre-selected ions may be monitored sequentially. This allows a maximum of 12 different amino acids (one specific ion in each of the undeuterated and deuterated amino acid spectra) to be quantitated. The method is relatively rapid (analysis time of approximately one hour) and is capable of the quantitation of nanogram quantities of amino acids.
BUTTON-PRESSING FOR A TIME-OFF REWARD DURING SENSORY DEPRIVATION. V. EFFECTS OF RELATIVELY COMFORTABLE AND UNCOMFORTABLE SESSIONS.

10 Ss underwent two 3-hr. sensory deprivation (S-D) sessions exactly 1 wk. apart. One session was designed to be potentially more discomforting for Ss and was termed the uncomfortable session. The other session was termed the comfortable session. The orders of sessions were counterbalanced with 5 Ss used for each of the 2 orders. During both sessions Ss were given the opportunity to button-press for a promised time-off reward. Before and after each session Ss rated their state of well-being. Analyses of the results indicated that Ss engaged in significantly more button-pressing for the promised time-off reward during the uncomfortable session than during the comfortable session.
Interactions of flavonoids, trace metals, and oxygen: nuclear DNA damage and lipid peroxidation induced by myricetin

The extent of DNA damage and lipid peroxidation induced by myricetin, a polyphenolic flavonoid, were studied in isolated rat liver nuclei under aerobic conditions. Myricetin induced significant (P < 0.05) concentration-dependent nuclear DNA degradation concurrent with lipid peroxidation; these effects were enhanced by iron (III) or copper (II). Catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), mannitol and sodium azide did not inhibit myricetin-induced nuclear DNA damage in the presence of iron (III) or copper (II). However, all of these antioxidants stimulated myricetin-induced DNA damage in the presence of copper (II). Lipid peroxidation induced by myricetin was significantly inhibited only by SOD in the presence of copper (II), whereas it was enhanced by catalase and sodium azide in the presence of iron (III). These results demonstrate the pro-oxidant properties of polyphenolic flavonoids, which are generally considered to be antioxidants and anticarcinogens, and suggest a dual role for these flavonoids in mutagenesis and carcinogenesis.
An investigation of CaO sulfation mechanisms in boiler sorbent injection

A laboratory differential reactor study was conducted at temperatures of 975–1,275 K to investigate CaO sulfation mechanisms with calcine (CaO) samples derived from pulverized limestones and dolomites, and hydrated limes. The limestones had 8–115 μm mean particle sizes, a range applicable for boiler sorbent injection for SO2 control. Under conditions applicable for boiler sorbent injection, the sorbent performance, in terms of initial reaction rate and saturation utilization, was limited by the SO2 pore diffusion rate and by premature pore mouth plugging by CaSO4 product and, thus, depended on CaO particle size and pore size. Hydrated lime and Na2CO3-promoted limestones showed performance superior to that of limestones, because they produced calcines with larger pores. Intrinsic reaction rate as reported by Borgwardt and Bruce (1986) was observed at temperatures below 1, 100 K.
Paragenetic Relation of Thermal Maturation (Coalification) and Tectonic Framework of Some Canadian Rocky Mountain Coal: ABSTRACT

The attitude of the reflectance indicatrix of coal is a function of thermal history (coalification) and stresses (tectonics) at the time of maximum coalification. In normally coalified, horizontal-bedded coal seams, the maximum reflectance lies in a horizontal End_Page 636------------------------------ plane parallel with bedding plane and the minimum reflectance axis is perpendicular to the bedding plane. If maximum reflectance is achieved prior to folding, the minimum reflectance is always perpendicular to the bedding regardless of the subsequent folding and the attitudes of the coal beds. Thus, the attitude of the minimum reflectance is a good parameter for evaluating whether maximum thermal maturation is achieved prior or after folding or other structural changes. Twenty-five samples were collected from coal-bearing strata from Monkman's Pass north to Sparwood, British Columbia, in the Canadian Rockies. Most of the coal beds sampled were highly disturbed by folding and faulting with dips ranging from a few degrees to overturned. Analysis results indicate distinctive groupings of the samples with the minimum reflectance deviating a few degrees to more than 30° from the normal of the bedding. This suggests a varied thermal history for the coal fields studied. The technique can be applied not only to the investigation of coal-bearing strata but also to the study of source rocks of petroleum as to whether thermal maturation occurs before or after a trap has been developed. End_of_Article - Last_Page 637------------
Integration of GaN thin films with dissimilar substrate materials by Pd-In metal bonding and laser lift-off

Gallium nitride (GaN) thin films grown on sapphire substrates were successfully bonded and transferred onto GaAs, Si, and polymer “receptor” substrates using a low-temperature Pd-In bond followed by a laser lift-off (LLO) process to remove the sapphire growth substrate. The GaN/sapphire structures were joined to the receptor substrate by pressure bonding a Pd-In bilayer coated GaN surface onto a Pd coated receptor substrate at a temperature of 200°C. X-ray diffraction showed that the intermetallic compound PdIn3 had formed during the bonding process. LLO, using a single 600 mJ/cm2, 38 ns KrF (248 nm) excimer laser pulse directed through the transparent sapphire substrate, followed by a low-temperature heat treatment, completed the transfer of the GaN onto the “receptor” substrate. Cross-sectional scanning electron microscopy and x-ray rocking curves showed that the film quality did not degrade significantly during the bonding and LLO process.
COMPARISON OF BENCHMARKS FOR PORTFOLIO PERFORMANCE: AN EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS

In most portfolio performance studies, a reference portfolio is used to assess the performance of a portfolio manager. The choice of an appropriate reference portfolio is essential to yield a fair and unbiased evaluation of the manager. In the following analyses, category‐based benchmarks are assessed against established benchmarks to evaluate, which alternative accurately evaluates a portfolio manager's performance. The results indicate that the category‐based benchmarks are more appropriate comparison reference for evaluating the systematic risk of equity portfolios and equity security returns.
Craniofacial repair with fetal bone grafts engineered from amniotic mesenchymal stem cells.

Abstract Background Ethically acceptable applications of fetal tissue engineering as a perinatal therapy can be expanded beyond life-threatening anomalies by amniotic fluid cell-based methods, in which cell procurement poses no additional risk to the mother. We sought to start to determine whether osseous grafts engineered from amniotic mesenchymal stem cells (aMSCs) could be an adjunct to craniofacial repair. Methods New Zealand rabbits ( n = 12) underwent creation of a full-thickness diploic nasal bone defect. We then equally divided animals into two groups based on how the defect was repaired: namely, size-matched implants of electrospun biodegradable nanofibers with or without nuclear labeled, allogeneic aMSCs maintained in osteogenic medium. We killed animals 8 wk post-implantation for multiple analyses. Statistical analysis included analysis of variance, post-hoc Bonferroni adjusted comparisons, and Levene's F -test, as appropriate ( P P Results Micro-computed tomography scanning (two- and three-dimensional) showed no significant differences in defect radiodensity between groups. However, extracellular calcium levels were significantly higher in engineered grafts than in acellular implants ( P = 0.003). There was significantly greater variability in mineralization in acellular implants than in engineered grafts by both direct calcium ( P = 0.008) and micro-computed tomography measurements ( P = 0.032). There were no significant differences in alkaline phosphatase activity or variance between groups. We documented labeled cells in the engineered grafts. Conclusions Craniofacial repair with osseous grafts engineered from aMSCs lead to enhanced and more consistent mineralization compared with an equivalent acellular prosthetic repair. Amniotic fluid–derived engineered bone may become a practical adjunct to perinatal craniofacial reconstruction.
N‐Acetylaspartylglutamate Inhibits Forskolin‐Stimulated Cyclic AMP Levels via a Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor in Cultured Cerebellar Granule Cells

: The neuronal dipeptide N-acetylaspartylglutamate (NAAG) fulfills several of the criteria for classification as a neurotransmitter including localization in synaptic vesicles, calcium-dependent release after neuronal depolarization, and low potency activation of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors. In the present study, the influence of NAAG on metabotropic receptor activation in cerebellar granule cells was examined in cell culture. Stimulation of granule cell adenylate cyclase with forskolin increased cyclic AMP (cAMP) several hundredfold above basal levels within 10 min in a concentration-dependent manner. Although gluta-mate, NAAG, and the metabotropic receptor agonist frans-1-amino-1, 3-cyclopentanedicarboxylic acid did not alter the low basal cAMP levels, the application of 300 μM glutamate or NAAG or trans-1-amino-1, 3-cyclopentanedicarboxylic acid reduced forskolin-stimulated cAMP in granule cells by 30–50% in the absence or presence of inhibitors of ionotropic acidic amino acid receptors, as well as 2-amino-4-phosphonobutyrate. No additivity in the inhibition of cAMP was found when 300 μM NAAG and trans-1-amino-1, 3-cyclopentanedicarboxylic acid were coapplied. The β-analogue of NAAG failed to reduce cAMP levels. Similar effects of NAAG and glutamate were obtained under conditions of inhibition of phosphodiesterase activity and were prevented by pretreatment of the cells with pertussis toxin. These data are consistent with the activation by NAAG of a metabotropic acidic amino acid receptor coupled to an inhibitory G protein. In contrast, the metabotropic acidic amino acid receptor coupled to phosphoinositol turnover in these cells was not activated by NAAG. Granule cells in culture expressed very low levels of extracellular peptidase activity against NAAG, converting to glutamate <0.1% of the 10 μM through 1 mM NAAG applied to these cells during 15-min in vitro assays.
In Vitro Bactericidal Effectiveness of Four Aminoglycoside Antibiotics

The antibacterial activity of four aminoglycoside antibiotics (gentamicin, Sch 13706, tobramycin, and sisomicin) was tested against eight gram-negative and three gram-positive species. A total of 323 strains were studied by the broth dilution technique. Tobramycin and sisomicin had greater bacteriostatic and bactericidal activity against Pseudomonas strains than did gentamicin and Sch 13706. Of the four antibiotics, sisomicin was most active against Klebsiella, Enterobacter, Escherichia coli, indole-negative and -positive Proteus, and Streptococcus pyogenes. Gentamicin was most effective against Serratia. A fourfold or greater difference existed frequently between the minimal inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations of all antibiotics against Enterobacter and Serratia. This difference was greatest with tobramycin. Staphylococcus aureus was highly susceptible, Providencia relatively resistant, and enterococcus uniformly resistant to the antibiotics studied. Agar diffusion susceptibility testing with gentamicin and tobramycin showed that organisms susceptible to less than 6.2 mug/ml usually yielded zones 17 to 26 mm in diameters. Zones of 15 to 16 mm represented intermediate susceptibility which varied with the organism and antibiotic. Several Serratia strains required 6.2 to 12.5 mug of gentamicin/ml or 25 to 50 mug of tobramycin/ml for bactericidal activity despite minimal inhibitory concentrations of 0.09 to 3.1 mug/ml and zone sizes greater than 13 and 17 mm, respectively. Studies with Enterobacter and tobramycin yielded similar results.
Radar cross section of curved plates using geometrical and physical diffraction techniques

Geometrical and physical optics techniques, supplemented by their respective extensions, i.e., geometrical and physical diffraction, are applied to the problem of finite cylindrically curved plates. Numerical calculations of the radar backscattering cross sections were made, and a graphical comparison of these methods with experimental results is made. Keller's and Ufimtsev's theories axe discussed and compared as they apply to this problem.
Bound states in the colored-quark model

Abstract The saturation problem in the three-triplet quark model, discussed previously by Nambu and by Lipkin, is investigated. We prove that in a simple version of the model, the only bound states of any color representation and any numbers of quarks and antiquarks are the q q (meson), qqq (baryon), and a heavier diquark state.
Characteristics of oblique shock waves produced in an expanding laser-plasma

Stationary oblique shock waves produced by a laser-produced plasma (carbon and lithium) expanding over a wedge and related phenomena have been investigated experimentally. Such a plasma is characterized as an ionization-frozen multicomponent flow which consists of a number of different charge-state groups with different flow velocities. Well-defined multiple shock fronts which are formed around a wedge are differentiated using a spectroheliographic method. Data obtained from an ion-charge collector and from spectroheliographs indicate that these shock fronts (with different inclinations) result from different flow components. The plasma behind the shock is predominantly recombining rather than ionizing. In addition, the innermost shock is found to be more like a transverse shock where the flow particles are transported along the shock plane. This is also evidenced by a large charged-particle cumulation (and collimation) which occurs when two such oblique shock waves are brought to intersect each other. The measured shock inclinations as a function of wedge angle indicate a considerable departure from a simple gasdynamic flow model. It is believed that the self-generated (reversed) magnetic field associated with the laser-produced-plasma shock greatly influences the shock behavior.
Deep-Sea Drilling and Major Themes of Ocean Evolution: ABSTRACT

The major trends and events of the evolution of ocean life, circulation, and chemistry since the Early Cretaceous have been established through deep-sea drilling. A. G. Fischer and M. A. Arthur emphasized the long-term correlations between variations in global characteristics of ancient oceans (diversity, temperature, sediment continuity, oxygenation, eustatic sea level, carbon-isotope values). H. Thierstein and W. Berger summarized the evidence for the occurrence of abrupt changes in such ocean characteristics. It is argued that relatively few basic mechanisms--activated by crustal motion, and atmospheric feedback within the global heat budget--can account for the observed paleo-oceanographic phenomena. The "geologic setting" of the various periods of earth history and the partitioning of the record within the established time scale hinge on these paleo-oceanographic factors. End_of_Article - Last_Page 419------------
The Effects of Estrogen and Progesterone on the Arterial System of the Uterus of the Cow

Summary A study of the uterine arteries of six normal and seven ovariectomized cows by the plastic injection-corrosion technique revealed the following points: (a) The caruncular arterioles of normal cows are extremely coiled. (b) The endometrial arterioles of 13- to 16-mo.-old heifers are essentially straight, while similar arterioles in the uteri of mature cows are more numerous and more highly coiled. These facts appear significant in relation to the lower conception rate encountered in heifers and in relation to the more frequent occurrence of metestrous bleeding in heifers. (c) The disappearance of the endometrial arterioles that normally occurs following ovariectomy can be prevented by administration of the ovarian hormones. Estrogenic hormones appear to be the most effective in this respect. (d) It was not possible by this method to detect differences in the arterial development of the uteri of normal cows which might be associated with definite stages of the estrous cycle.
Divergence across diet, time and populations rules out parallel evolution in the gut microbiomes of Trinidadian guppies

Diverse microbial consortia profoundly influence animal biology, necessitating an understanding of microbiome variation in studies of animal adaptation. Yet, little is known about such variability among fish, in spite of their importance in aquatic ecosystems. The Trinidadian guppy, Poecilia reticulata, is an intriguing candidate to test microbiome-related hypotheses on the drivers and consequences of animal adaptation, given the recent parallel origins of a similar ecotype across streams. To assess the relationships between the microbiome and host adaptation, we used 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing to characterize gut bacteria of two guppy ecotypes with known divergence in diet, life history, physiology and morphology collected from low-predation (LP) and high-predation (HP) habitats in four Trinidadian streams. Guts were populated by several recurring, core bacteria that are related to other fish associates and rarely detected in the environment. Although gut communities of lab-reared guppies differed from those in the wild, microbiome divergence between ecotypes from the same stream was evident under identical rearing conditions, suggesting host genetic divergence can affect associations with gut bacteria. In the field, gut communities varied over time, across streams and between ecotypes in a stream-specific manner. This latter finding, along with PICRUSt predictions of metagenome function, argues against strong parallelism of the gut microbiome in association with LP ecotype evolution. Thus, bacteria cannot be invoked in facilitating the heightened reliance of LP guppies on lower-quality diets. We argue that the macroevolutionary microbiome convergence seen across animals with similar diets may be a signature of secondary microbial shifts arising some time after host-driven adaptation.
Alkyne coupling in rhenacarbaborane chemistry. Structure of [1,2-μ-NHBut-2,2-(CO)2-3,2-σ:η2-{C(CHBut)–CHCHBut}-closo-2,1-ReCB10H9]

The butadienyl moiety in the title compound is bound to both cage-boron and rhenium vertices, and arises from coupling of two alkyne molecules at the rhenium centre, unprecedented in metallacarbaborane chemistry.
The hormonal control of wax secretion in an insect, Calpodes ethlius Stoll (Lepidoptera, Hesperiidae).

Abstract Shortly after moulting to the 5th instar, larvae of Calpodes ethlius Stoll (Lepidoptera, Hesperiidae) secrete wax in the form of cylinders 1 2 μ in diameter through two patches of modified integument. This event can be considered as one of the last syntheses undertaken by the epidermis at the 4th–5th moult which has been prolonged into the intermoult of the 5th instar. The rate of synthesis of the wax cylinders has been determined by measuring the length secreted per hour. This intermoult wax secretion is not a triggered event but is under the continuous control of a hormone from the head. Experiments involving head and thoracic ligatures, the surgical removal of the brain, corpus cardiacum, corpus allatum, sub-oesophageal ganglion, and the 1st thoracic ganglion show that the normal rate of wax secretion depends upon the integrity of the corpus allatum/corpus cardiacum. Alone they are insufficient. Implantations of the brain and corpus allatum/corpus cardiacum into isolated abdomens do not induce wax secretion; conversely, although wax secretion can be considered as the last event of the moult cycle it is not controlled only by the prothoracic glands. Larvae without the brain and corpus allatum/corpus cardiacum are unable to secrete wax in the 5th instar although they pupate normally.
Identifying individual risk factors and documenting the pattern of heat-related illness through analyses of hospitalization and patterns of household cooling.

Background As climate change increases the frequency and intensity of extreme heat events researchers and public health officials must work towards understanding the causes and outcomes of heat-related morbidity and mortality. While there have been many studies on both heat-related illness (HRI), there are fewer on heat-related morbidity than on heat-related mortality. Objective To identify individual and environmental risk factors for hospitalizations and document patterns of household cooling. Methods We performed a pooled cross-sectional analysis of secondary U.S. data, the Nationwide Inpatient Sample. Risk ratios were calculated from multivariable models to identify risk factors for hospitalizations. Hierarchical modeling was also employed to identify relationships between individual and hospital level predictors of hospitalizations. Patterns of air conditioning use were analyzed among the vulnerable populations identified. Results Hospitalizations due to HRI increased over the study period compared to all other hospitalizations. Populations at elevated risk for HRI hospitalization were blacks, males and all age groups above the age of 40. Those living in zip-codes in the lowest income quartile and the uninsured were also at an increased risk. Hospitalizations for HRI in rural and small urban clusters were elevated, compared to urban areas. Conclusions Risk factors for HRI include age greater than 40, male gender and hospitalization in rural areas or small urban clusters. Our analysis also revealed an increasing pattern of HRI hospitalizations over time and decreased association between common comorbidities and heat illnesses which may be indicative of underreporting.
Risk factors for postoperative infection

During a 4-year period, we collected prospective epidemiologic data and intraoperative wound cultures from 1,852 surgery patients at a university-affiliated community hospital in order to identify the critical risk factors for postoperative wound infections and study the impact of perioperative antibiotics on the bacteriology of infected wounds. Stepwise logistic regression analysis revealed four risk factors that were independent of each other and highly predictive for subsequent wound infection. These were the surgical wound class, American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status grouping, duration of surgery, and results of intraoperative cultures. Addition of other variables to our model did not increase the predicted probability of infection. Even though patients with positive intraoperative cultures had an increased rate of infection, this information had limited clinical utility. The predictive value of a positive culture was low (32%), false-positive rate was high (82%), and concordance with isolates from infected wounds was low (41% when both cultures were positive). Patients who had received perioperative antibiotics and who developed infections were frequently infected with organisms that were resistant to the perioperative drug regimen, compared with patients who had not received antibiotics. A better understanding of the variables that affect the epidemiology and pathogenesis of postoperative wound infection will enable us to make more valid comparisons of rates among hospitals, help us to develop more effective infection control strategies and provide us with more effective treatments.
Aversion to strychnine sulfate by Norway rats, roof rats, and pocket gophers.

Abstract Sprague-Dawley and wild Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus), roof rats (R. rattus), and pocket gophers (Thomomys bottae) were employed in drinking trials of distilled water and 0.01, 0.05, and 0.5% strychnine sulfate solutions for periods of 10 minutes (rats), 20 minutes (pocket gophers), and 24 and 48 hours for all species. Both the wild Norway and the Sprague-Dawley rats apparently found strychnine highly unpalatable, especially the 0.5 and 0.05% concentrations. They were able readily to discriminate even the weakest strength and acquired a marked aversion to all the strychnine solutions, whereas the roof rats developed an aversion only for the 0.05 and 0.5% concentrations and pocket gophers never learned to avoid completely even the 0.5% strength, though they were made ill. These tests suggest that strychnine sulfate may be usable as a rodenticide for R. rattus, if it is prepared at the proper concentration. Twelve of 15 pocket gophers and 1 of 5 roof rats drank lethal amounts of the solutions, whereas none of the 27 laboratory and wild Rattus norvegicus did.
Treatment of the neurogenic bladder in spina bifida

Renal damage and renal failure are among the most severe complications of spina bifida. Over the past decades, a comprehensive treatment strategy has been applied that results in minimal renal scaring. In addition, the majority of patients can be dry for urine by the time they go to primary school. To obtain such results, it is mandatory to treat detrusor overactivity from birth onward, as upper urinary tract changes predominantly start in the first months of life. This means that new patients with spina bifida should be treated from birth by clean intermittent catheterization and pharmacological suppression of detrusor overactivity. Urinary tract infections, when present, need aggressive treatment, and in many patients, permanent prophylaxis is indicated. Later in life, therapy can be tailored to urodynamic findings. Children with paralyzed pelvic floor and hence urinary incontinence are routinely offered surgery around the age of 5 years to become dry. Rectus abdominis sling suspension of the bladder neck is the first-choice procedure, with good to excellent results in both male and female patients. In children with detrusor hyperactivity, detrusorectomy can be performed as an alternative for ileocystoplasty provided there is adequate bladder capacity. Wheelchair-bound patients can manage their bladder more easily with a continent catheterizable stoma on top of the bladder. This stoma provides them extra privacy and diminishes parental burden. Bowel management is done by retrograde or antegrade enema therapy. Concerning sexuality, special attention is needed to address expectations of adolescent patients. Sensibility of the glans penis can be restored by surgery in the majority of patients.
Selective histone deacetylase 6 inhibitors bearing substituted urea linkers inhibit melanoma cell growth

The incidence of malignant melanoma has dramatically increased in recent years thus requiring the need for improved therapeutic strategies. In our efforts to design selective histone deactylase inhibitors (HDACI), we discovered that the aryl urea 1 is a modestly potent yet nonselective inhibitor. Structure–activity relationship studies revealed that adding substituents to the nitrogen atom of the urea so as to generate compounds bearing a branched linker group results in increased potency and selectivity for HDAC6. Compound 5g shows low nanomolar inhibitory potency against HDAC6 and a selectivity of ∼600-fold relative to the inhibition of HDAC1. These HDACIs were evaluated for their ability to inhibit the growth of B16 melanoma cells with the most potent and selective HDAC6I being found to decrease tumor cell growth. To the best of our knowledge, this work constitutes the first report of HDAC6-selective inhibitors that possess antiproliferative effects against melanoma cells.
Melt motion in a Czochralski crystal puller with an axial magnetic field: isothermal motion

A magnetic field suppresses turbulence and thermal convection in a Czochralski crystal puller. The amounts and distributions of dopants and oxygen in the crystal are determined by the motion of the molten silicon during crystal growth. This paper presents analytical solutions for the melt motion in a Czochralski puller with a strong, uniform, axial magnetic field. The relatively small electrical conductivity of the crystal plays a key role in determining the flow. Certain combinations of crystal and crucible rotation rates lead to flow patterns with a large volume of almost stagnant fluid under most of the crystal face. The values of these rotation rates depend on the magnetic field strength.
The Banff Field, Blocks 22/27a, 29/2a, UK North Sea

Abstract The Banff Field is an oil field with a small gas cap containing an estimated 300 MMB0 oil-in place. The structure straddles the boundary between blocks 22/27a and 29/2a in the West Central Graben area of UK Central North Sea. The field was discovered by well 29/2a-6 in 1991. Banff Field is a Steeply dipping raft of fractured Late Cretaceous and Danian Chalk on the flank of a salt diapir. Paleocene sands draped over the raft provide addtional reservoir potential. A vertical oil column of over 3000 ft is present within the reservoir sourced from the underlying upper jurassic Kimmeridge Formation shales. Hydrocarbon migration into the trap is believed to have started in the Eocene. The highest reservoir productivity occurs in the Late Cretaceous Tor Formation, which is expected to yield most of the field9s reserves. Chalk porosity ranges from 15% to 35% but matrix permeabilities are generally less than 5 mD. Drainage is achieved through extensive faulting and fracturing Initial uncertainties over reservoir performance and connectivity led to a phased development. Phase i comprised a six month Early Production System (EPS), during which time 5 MMBo were produced and the viability of the field was confirmed. Phase 2 Production is by means of a Floating Production System and Offtake (FPSO) Vessel Named the Ramform Banff. First oil production was achieved on 30 January 1999 and ultimate reserves are expected to be in excess of 75 MMBO.
Energy-dependent calcium uptake activity of microsomes from the aorta of normal and hypertensive rats

Abstract Energy-dependent calcium uptake activity of microsomes isolated from the rat aorta has been characterized. The microsomes consist of smooth membrane vesicles which in the presence of Mg · ATP as an energy source continuously sequester calcium over a 60-min period. This calcium uptake is greatly stimulated by oxalate anion which serves as a calcium trapping agent. Unlike the calcium uptake of miltochondria this uptake is not inhibited by sodium azide. Sucrose density gradient analysis of the microsomal calcium uptake suggests that the system is associated with the sarcoplasmic reticulum. In presence of 5 mM Mg · ATP and 20μM calcium approximately 38 nmol of calcium per mg of microsormal protein are taken up in 20 min. In the absence of ATP, less than 2 nmol of calcium per mg of protein are taken up in the first 2 min. with no further uptake of calcium in subsequent time periods. When calcium uptake activity is plotted against calcium or ATP concentration of the medium, half maximal activity is calculated for 24.3 μM calcium and for 1.6 mM ATP. The calcium uptake characteristics of the rat aorta microsomes are compatible with a postulated role in the relaxation of the vascular smooth muscle and the provision of an intracellular calcium store for muscle contraction. Aorta microsomes from SHR rats (a genetic strain that is spontaneously hypertensive) have a significantly reduced calcium uptake when compared with the corresponding nonhypertensive control strain. The level of calcium and ATP for half maximal activity of the rat aorta microsomal calcium uptake system is approximately the same in the SHR and the control strain. The rate of release of calcium from rat aorta microsomes is apparently identical in SHR strain and control. The calcium uptake activity of kidney and liver microsomes isolated from the SHR rat appears to be identical to that found in the control strain. Rats were treated with the steroid deoxycorticosterone acetate for ten and thirty days to induce hypertension. After ten days of deoxycorticosterone acetate although hypertension is present, there is no change in calcium uptake activity of aorta microsomes, renal microsomes or renal plasma membranes. After 30 days of deoxycorticosterone acetate treatment calcium uptake activity of renal microsomes is reduced. A variable decrease in calcium uptake activity is observed with aorta microsomes. Renal plasma membrane calcium uptake remains unchanged.
Entrepreneurial skills assessment: the perspective of SBDC directors

This paper examines the perspective of Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) directors located in several mid-American states on 17 skills suggested as being critical to individuals seeking to embark on entrepreneurial activities. A survey questionnaire was completed by the directors regarding the importance and usefulness of these skills to individuals pursuing entrepreneurial activities. The results of this survey are compared to an earlier exploratory study of SBDC clients of one regional office in their first two years after initial contact with the office. Two of the skills (Operational and Higher-Order) viewed most differently by the two groups are examined in more detail. Implications for future research and for practice are discussed.
What the COSO report means for internal auditors

There have been new interests in internal control and the COSO report represents a milestone in the evolution of internal control. The business community and accounting profession reactions to the COSO report have been positive in the USA. The provisions of the COSO report help organizations to understand and appreciate better the value and importance of internal control; they also expand the elements and components of internal control, and provide guidelines for establishing criteria against which all entities can assess the adequacy and effectiveness of their internal control systems. The COSO report should provide a great implication for organizations′ internal audit functions and have a significant positive impact on the better recognition of the proactive role of internal auditors.
Cardioglobulin Separation, Characterization, and Assay of the Individual Components

Cardioglobulin is a protein system in mammalian plasma, assayed by its effect on contractility of isolated frog heart. Gel filtration was employed to separate individual components, called cardioglobulin-A, -B and -C, from rat and human plasma: Cardioglobulin-A of both rat and human is a small globulin. Biological activity is abolished by heparin. A part of rat plasma cardioglobulin-A probably exists as a readily dissociable complex with another protein and is not inactivated by heparin. Rat cardioglobulin-C is a large globulin, contains calcium essential for biological activity, and binds strongly to the frog heart. The human protein that corresponds functionally to rat cardioglobulin-C is a much smaller globulin and does not bind. Both rat and human cardioglobulin-B are sensitive to heparin at concentrations recommended for collection of plasma but are stable in tenfold lower concentrations that still prevent clotting. Human cardioglobulin-B separates into two fractions on G-200 Sephadex. It is not known whether they exist as a complex in plasma or as individual proteins. Rat cardioglobulin-B has not been isolated, but preliminary data indicate it is chemically distinct from human cardioglobulin-B. As a result of this work, assay of individual Cardioglobulin components can be reliably performed.
On the reaction pathway for methanol and carbon monoxide electrooxidation on Pt-Sn alloy versus Pt-Ru alloy surfaces

It has been observed in this work and previous studies that Pt3Sn alloy surfaces are very effective catalysts for CO electrooxidation, but not for methanol electrooxidation. Since COads is postulated to be an intermediate in methanol electrooxidation on Pt alloy surfaces, the relative inactivity of Pt3Sn for methanol oxidation appears paradoxical. We present an explanation for this apparent contradiction in terms of a unique state of COads on this surface, which is not the same state of COads as occurs on either PtRu or pure Pt surfaces. It is also not a state of COads which is produced by methanol dehydrogenation. The state is unique in the sense that a significant fraction of COads is oxidized at a much lower (<400 mV) potential than the rest of the COads, a phenomenon that does not occur on any other Pt and Pt-alloy surfaces examined in the same way. This CO state is only formed at high coverages by direct adsorption from dissolved CO and is not formed by the dehydrogenation of methanol, since the multiple Pt atom sites needed to dehydrogenate methanol are blocked by COads at low coverage.
Progression of cerebroventricular enlargement and the subtyping of schizophrenia

Several anatomic abnormalities in the brains of schizophrenics have frequently been reported. However, it remains unresolved whether such neuropathology is fully expressed and static at the onset of psychosis or whether further deterioration evolves during the course of illness. To address this important question, we obtained serial volumetric magnetic resonance images (MRI) of the cerebral ventricles of 18 patients with schizophrenic symptoms. Repeated blind measurements of total ventricular volume (TVV) revealed < 2% error of the segmentation method. Over a 2-3 year period, the rate of ventricular expansion (RVE) was 2.2 +/- 1.6 cm3/year in the patients and 0.7 +/- 0.6 cm3/year in controls. The RVE in the patients was not normally distributed, but clustered into two groups: a group similar to controls (n = 10; RVE, 0.9 +/- 0.5 cm3/year) and a group with a significantly greater rate of expansion (n = 8; RVE, 3.9 +/- 0.7 cm3/year) (P < 0.001). These results suggest that there are at least two subpopulations within the schizophrenias: one with relatively static ventricles and another with progressively enlarging ventricles. At least two distinct etiologic processes may thus underlie the clinical presentation of schizophrenic symptoms. Factors which might influence ventricular expansion (neuroleptic compliance, alcohol and recreational drug abuse, and some clinical correlates) could not account for differences between groups.
Platelet activation increases in patients undergoing vascular surgery.

Background Platelets are a major contributor to atherothrombosis and may contribute to the heightened risk of perioperative cardiovascular events. We sought to examine changes in platelet activity in subjects undergoing vascular surgery.
Prediction of unexpected behavior of the mean inner potential of superconductors

Abstract Off-axis electron holography can measure the mean inner electric potential of materials. The theory of hole superconductivity predicts that when a material is cooled into the superconducting state it expels electrons from its interior to the surface, giving rise to a mean inner potential that increases with sample thickness. Instead, in a normal metal and in a conventional BCS superconductor the mean inner potential is expected to be independent of sample thickness and temperature. Thus, this experiment can provide a definitive test of the validity of the theory of hole superconductivity.
Equity Implications of Public Policy in an Unstable Agricultural Economy: Discussion

The three papers in this session do not have as much in common as would be desirable for a comparative discussion. Two of the papers (Feder and Slade, and Huffman) say very little about equity, and only one (Huffman) deals with the "unstable agricultural economy" in a very direct way. One (Feder and Slade) deals exclusively with a developing economy, while a second (Huffman) deals exclusively with the U.S. economy. Each paper, however, has some individual merit and some comparative comments can be made.
Onset of dieting vs binge eating in outpatients with binge eating disorder

OBJECTIVE: To examine the potential significance of the sequence of the onset of dieting and binge eating in binge eating disorder (BED). DESIGN: BED patients were interviewed and completed a battery of psychometrically well-established measures of current eating behaviors, eating disorder psychopathology, and associated psychological functioning. SUBJECTS: Participants were 98 consecutive outpatients with BED evaluated for a clinical trial. MEASURES: Interview data, self-report measures and measured body weight were examined. RESULTS: Participants who reported that dieting preceded binge eating (DIETfirst, 65%) were compared to those who reported that binge eating preceded their first diet (BINGEfirst, 35%). The study groups did not differ in demography, current or highest body mass index, current eating behaviors or psychopathology, or psychological functioning. The two groups did not differ in age of first diet; however, the BINGEfirst group was significantly younger when first overweight, at onset of binge eating, and at onset of BED diagnosis. The BINGEfirst group reported a higher frequency of being teased about their weight. CONCLUSIONS: A substantial subgroup of BED patients report that binge eating preceded their first diet. This finding, which replicates previous reports for BED and appears higher than that generally reported for bulimia nervosa, may have implication for etiologic models of binge eating.