cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Finger and penile tactile sensitivity in sexually functional and dysfunctional diabetic men

Tactile sensitivity of the penis is related to sexual functioning, however its role in diabetic erectile problems is unclear. We evaluated penile sensitivity in 10 diabetic men with erectile dysfunction, 17 sexually functional diabetic men and 14 control subjects. Finger and penile thresholds and ratings of intensity and pleasantness for finger and penis were assessed using vibrotactile stimulation. Glycosylated haemoglobin and total and bioavailable testosterone measurements were determined and subjects completed self-reports on sexual function. Diabetic men with erectile problems had higher values of glycosylated haemoglobin than sexually functional diabetic men (p = 0.02) and both groups had lower bioavailable testosterone than control subjects (p K 0.05). Sexually dysfunctional diabetic men had a higher finger threshold than the other two groups (p < 0.01). Penile threshold for the sexually dysfunctional group was also marginally higher compared with the functional diabetic group (p < 0.052) but did not differ from control subjects (p = 0.09). Diabetic men with erectile dysfunction exhibited different response patterns than sexually functional men on dimensions of intensity and pleasantness to penile stimulation. Although these data do not directly implicate subjective response to penile stimulation in diabetic erectile problems, they suggest such anomalous response could be one contributing factor. [Diabetologia (1999) 42: 336–342]
Enantiomeric differences in permethrin degradation pathways in soil and sediment.

Chirality occurs widely in synthetic pyrethroids. Studies have shown significant differences in both aquatic toxicity and degradation rates between enantiomers from the same diastereomer of selected pyrethroids. To better understand chiral selectivity in biodegradation of pyrethroids, 14C-labeled permethrin was used to characterize enantiomeric differences in the formation of transformation intermediates in two soils and a sediment. Individual enantiomers of permethrin were spiked into soil and sediment samples, and transformation products were identified with known standards. Enantioselectivity was observed in most treatments when the dissipation of the parent enantiomers, the amount of intermediates and bound residues formed, and mineralization rates were compared between the enantiomers. The results show that all enantiomers of permethrin hydrolyzed rapidly and that the hydrolysis products were quickly further transformed. The direct hydrolysis products, cyclopropanic acid (Cl2CA), 3-phenoxybenzyl alco...
Reasserting a Prehistoric Tragedy of the Commons: Reply to Lyman

Abstract R. Lee Lyman has challenged our assertion that prehistoric hunting of marine mammals along the west coast of North America approximated a prehistoric tragedy of the commons in which highly ranked migratory sea lions and fur seals were reduced by overexploitation, necessitating pursuit of smaller, more elusive harbor seals and sea otters late in time. In response, we review alternative theoretical perspectives, rebut Lyman's characterization of marine mammal reproductive behaviors, reanalyze seal and sea lion NISP data from the California and Oregon coasts, and reinterpret three regional prehistories. Because migratory pinnipeds need to breed on land, are vulnerable to terrestrial predation when congregated in breeding colonies, and employ migration corridors thousands of kilometers in length, they were susceptible to overexploitation. In areas where rookeries persisted on remote islands and offshore rocks, sophisticated weaponry and watercraft were developed to facilitate pursuit of dwindling populations and more elusive taxa as part of intensive, socially complex maritime economies.
Marital relationships and Type A-B Behavior assessed using the structured interview, Jenkins Activity Survey, and Framingham Type A Scale

Associations between spouses' Type A/Type B Behavior and marital distress, communication, and desired relationship changes were investigated in a sample of 42 healthy Caucasian couples aged 39 to 60 years. Consistency of relationships between marital distress and behavior type (BT) across different BT measurement techniques was also evaluated. BT was measured using the Structured Interview (SI), the Jenkins Activity Survey (JAS), and the Framingham Type A Scale (FTAS). Type A behavior in women was associated with increased marital distress and communication difficulties, as reported by both men and women. Participants also desired greater relationship changes when women were Type A. Findings varied greatly across BT measures. The strongest effect occurred for the FTAS, followed by the JAS. No significant effects were found for SI-assessed BT. Results reflect the multifaceted nature of the Type A construct and may reflect gender role differences within marital relationships.
A minimally invasive technique for management of the large adnexal mass

Abstract Study objective To describe our experience managing large pelvic masses through a minilaparotomy incision using a flexible, self-retaining wound retractor and exteriorized drainage by application of 2-octyl cyanoacrylate and a thin polyurethane membrane. Design Prospective nonrandomized trial (Canadian Task Force classification II-1). Setting Academic university hospital. Patients Ten women undergoing minilaparotomy for adnexal masses. Interventions After obtaining institutional review board approval, we identified 10 patients who underwent minilaparotomy for treatment of adnexal masses not thought to be amenable to laparoscopic surgical management and with clinical, radiographic, and laboratory evaluation consistent with a low probability of malignancy. Charts were reviewed and data collected. Measurements and main results The median mass size was 17.5 cm (range 9–30 cm), median incision length was 4.0 cm (range 3–5.5 cm), median patient age was 29.5 years (range 19–41 years), median body mass index was 24.7 (range 19.4–30.7), median duration of surgery was 85 minutes (range 53–141 minutes). Blood loss was minimal in all cases and all patients were discharged on the day of surgery. There were no diagnoses of ovarian malignancy. Pathologic diagnoses included mature cystic teratomas, cystadenomas, and cystadenofibromas. There were no instances of intraabdominal leakage of cyst fluid. One patient required readmission for a postoperative ileus. Conclusion Minimally invasive management is a reasonable alternative to traditional laparotomy in the setting of a large adnexal mass with low probability of malignancy. This technique allows adequate access and exposure while minimizing the risk of intraabdominal contamination, speeding patient recovery, and optimizing cosmetic results. Further, this approach can be converted to a laparoscopic staging procedure if a patient is found to have ovarian cancer.
Rapid, high-level production of hepatitis B core antigen in plant leaf and its immunogenicity in mice

Hepatitis B core antigen (HBc or HBcAg) self-assembles into capsid particles and is extremely immunogenic. HBc has been extensively studied for its production in various expression systems and for the use of HBc particles for high-density, immunogenic presentation of foreign epitopes. Here we reported the high-level transient expression of HBc in plant leaf and its immunogenicity in mice. By using a novel plant viral expression system, HBc was produced in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves at levels up to 7.14% of total soluble protein (TSP) or 2.38 milligrams HBc per gram of fresh weight at 7 days post-infection (dpi). Plant-derived HBc (p-HBc) assembled into virus-like particles (VLPs) as revealed by sucrose gradients and electron microscopy. Partially purified p-HBc stimulated strong serum antibody responses in mice as Escherichia coli-derived HBc upon intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection. Furthermore, mice immunized mucosally (orally and intranasally) with p-HBc in the absence of adjuvants also developed HBc-specific serum IgG as well as intestinal IgA. Taken together, our results indicate the potential usefulness of p-HBc-VLP as a carrier for immunogenic presentation and mucosal delivery of foreign epitopes.
846 LYSOSOMAL AMINO ACID TRANSPORT: DESCRIPTION OF A NEW SYSTEM

Lysosomes export amino acids derived from proteolysis into the cytoplasm against a concentration gradient. A system specific for cystine transport has recently been described which is defective in cystinotic tissues, accounting for the lysosomal cystine accumulation found in that condition. We here describe a second lysosomal amino acid transport system. Crude granular fractions were prepared from normal and cystinotic fibroblasts and loaded by exposure to 60 μM 14C-L-lysine methylester. The loaded fractions were then placed in transport buffer and the half-life for exodus measured as radioactivity retained on glass-fiber filters after filtration of aliquots of the incubation mixture. We found trans-stimulation of 14C-lysine efflux by arginine, lysine, ornithine, diaminobutyrate, histidine, 2-aminoethyl-L-cysteine and the mixed disulfide of cysteine and cysteamine. The T1sol;2 for lysine at 25°Cxs and pH 6.5 was 24 ± 2 min, but fell to 12.5 ± 1.5 min in the presence of 2 × 10−3M of the above-listed compounds in the incubation mixture. Lysine efflux was not Na+ dependent but was stereospecific for L-isomers and was inhibited by chloroquin. This system is intact in cystinotic fibroblasts. Since it recognizes the mixed disulfide of cysteine and cysteamine, we propose that cystine-depletion of cystinotic fibroblasts occurs via this intact transport system after conversion of cystine to the mixed disulfide by reaction with cysteamine.
Signification and African‐American rhetoric: A case study of Jesse Jackson's “common ground and common sense” speech

This essay identifies African‐American patterns of signification and develops a theoretical framework for examining the political discourse of black rhetors who rely on these patterns. “Common Ground and Common Sense,” a speech presented by Jesse Jackson to the 1988 Democratic National Convention, serves as a case study to illustrate tropes that characterize African‐American patterns of signification. Tropes include: set expressions/call response formulas, “lies"/tall tales, and common sense stories. Implications for African‐American political candidates who rely on these patterns are discussed. The study concludes that popular and scholarly critics must go beyond white standards for communication in order to understand African‐American politicians who utilize the patterns of signification identified in this essay.
Characterization of the Small RNA Transcriptome of the Diatom, Thalassiosira pseudonana

This study presents the first characterization of endogenous small RNAs in a diatom, Thalassiosira pseudonana. Small RNAs act as transcriptional and translational regulators, controlling specific target genes involved in various cellular functions. Diatoms are unicellular photosynthetic organisms that play major roles in environmental processes, such as food webs and global carbon fixation. Small RNA cDNA libraries were constructed for exponentially growing T. pseudonana, and then subjected to highly parallel pyrosequencing (454) and sequencing-by-ligation (Applied Biosystems SOLiD). From the computational analysis of approximately 300,000 sequences in the 454 library and over 17 million sequences in the SOLiD libraries, there exists evidence of a core set of small RNA genes including: novel microRNAs, repeat-associated short interfering RNAs, and endogenous short interfering RNAs. The diatom genome contains elements similar to plant small RNA systems, such as the RNAi machinery, a high percentage of short interfering RNAs originating from protein-coding and repetitive regions of the genome, and putative binding sites of the small RNAs occurring primarily in the coding section of the predicted targets. The characterization of the small RNA transcriptome of T. pseudonana establishes the possibility of a wide range of gene regulatory mechanisms in diatoms.
Outgoing Boundary Condition in Rearrangement Collisions

The boundary condition on the solution to the nonrelativistic time-independent Schr\"odinger equation for arbitrarily complicated rearrangements of spinless particles is carefully examined. For real energies $E$ it is shown that the outgoing boundary condition on the scattered wave $\ensuremath{\phi}$ need not imply that $\ensuremath{\phi}$ is "every-where outgoing." This and similar considerations make apparent the fact remarked by Foldy and Tobocman, namely that the Lippmann-Schwinger integral equation need not have a unique solution for real energies. The relationship of this result to the added fact that solutions to the Lippmann-Schwinger integral equation are unique for complex energies $E+i\ensuremath{\epsilon}$, $\ensuremath{\epsilon}g0$ is discussed, as is also the relationship of the usual operator manipulations to the outgoing boundary condition.
A new recessive syndrome with VATER-like defects, pulmonary hypertension, abnormal ears, blue sclera, laryngeal webs, and persistent growth deficiency.

VATER association is a term frequently used to describe children with multiple malformations. However, occasionally these children have malformations that are not typical of VATER defects and may represent unique multiple malformation syndromes with specific prognoses and recurrence risks. Two siblings with a heretofore previously undescribed multiple malformation syndrome are presented whose features include vertebral defects, cardiac abnormalities, pulmonary hypertension, laryngeal webs, blue sclerae, and persistent growth deficiency. Autosomal recessive inheritance is suggested. These cases suggest that other individuals labeled VATER association with multiple other defects should be reviewed more closely to give accurate prognosis and recurrence risk information to families.
Supercomputing At The U.S. Naval Research Laboratory

Many future systems will need a computer incorporating good features of different architectures. Such a composite computer would divide a calculation into a number of subtasks to be executed on the most suitable subsystem. To date, relatively little experience has been gained in the design and use of such systems or even in interfacing different high performance computer architectures. It has been difficult enough to get one system working. Nevertheless complexities of modern problems force us to pull the advances made in signal processing, computer science, and large-scale scientific computing back together. We are assembling a production-oriented, Heterogeneous Element Supercomputer System (HESS) which incorporates high performance computers of different architectures to provide optimum overall performance on critical, computation-intensive problems facing the defense community. The system being assembled includes the Cray X-MP/12, the Laboratory for Computational Physics' Graphical and Array Processing System (GAPS), the NRL Network augmented by HUBNET, a multi-megabyte/sec fiber optics network connecting the main HESS participants, and additional highly parallel supercomputing elements to be installed for prototype use and evaluation.© (1986) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Purification and characterization of the c-phycocyanin from Agmenellum quadruplicatum

Abstract The C-phycocyanin from the marine blue-green alga, Agmenellum quadruplicatum, has been isolated and purified to electrophoretic homogeneity. This is the first C-phycocyanin for which a low resolution three dimensional structure has been published (Hackert, M.L., Abad-Zapatero, C., Stevens, S.E. Jr. and Fox, J.L. (1977), J. Mol. Biol. 111, 365–369 and Abad-Zapatero, C., Fox, J.L. and Hackert, M.L. (1977) Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 78, 266–272). The native C-phycocyanin complex shows an absorption maximum at 622 nm and another peak at 355 nm. In urea solutions, the 622 nm maximum of whole C-phycocyanin is shifted to 662 nm. A m662 = 94400 was determined. The fluorescence emission maxima at 650 nm for holoprotein is shifted and largely quenched in acid urea. The monomeric protein consists of two poly-peptide chains with molecular weights of 16 000 for the α chain and 18 500 for the β chain. Spectra in 8 M urea indicate that the α chain possesses one and the β chain two phycocyanobilin chromophores. The isolated chains show absorption maxima at 622 nm for the α chain and 608 nm for the β chain. Amino acid compositions of the holoprotein and the separated chains are given and N-terminal amino acid sequences are presented.
Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of American chestnut (Castanea dentata (Marsh.) Borkh.) somatic embryos

These studies were designed to test if a binary vector containing the gfp, bar and oxalate oxidase genes could transform American chestnut somatic embryos; to see if a desiccation treatment during co-cultivation would affect the transformation frequency of different American chestnut somatic embryo clones; to explore the effects of more rapid desiccation; and to see if the antibiotics used to kill the Agrobacterium were interfering with the regeneration of the somatic embryos. Two days of gradual desiccation was found to significantly enhance transient GFP expression frequency. When this treatment was tested on six American chestnut clones, five were transformed and four of these remained embryogenic. Transformation was confirmed by Southern hybridization. Phenotypically normal transgenic shoots were regenerated and rooted. Vascular tissue specific expression of the oxalate oxidase gene was detected in one transgenic line. Carbenicillin, cefotaxime, and tricarcillin were found to not interfere with the regeneration of transformed embryos.
The why and the how of goal pursuit: Self-determination, goal process cognition, and participation in physical exercise

Abstract Objectives To examine goal process cognition as a mediator of the relationship between self-determined motivational ratings and strenuous exercise participation. Design Cross-Sectional Survey. Methods University students ( N =535) identified their most important exercise goal and rated this goal according to the nine goal process dimensions of the Goal Systems Assessment Battery (GSAB; [Karoly, P., & Ruehlman, L.S. (1995). Goal cognition and its clinical implications: Development and validation of four motivational assessment instruments. Assessment , 2 , 113–129]), an instrument derived from Ford's [Ford, D.H. (1987). Humans as self-constructing living systems: A developmental perspective on behavior and personality . Hillsdale, NJ: Erlbaum] control systems model of self-regulation. Additionally, students completed measures of self-determination for exercise and leisure-time exercise participation. A multiple mediator model was tested using the Preacher and Hayes [Preacher, K. J., & Hayes, A. F. (2007a). Asymptotic and resampling strategies for assessing and comparing indirect effects in simple and multiple mediator models. Manuscript submitted for publication; Preacher, K. J., & Hayes, A. F. (2007b). SPSS and SAS macros for estimating and comparing indirect effects in multiple mediator models. Retrieved February 9, 2007, from http://www.comm.ohio-state.edu/ahayes/SPSS%20programs/indirect.htm ] bootstrapping procedure. Results The effect of self-determination for exercise on strenuous leisure-time exercise was fully mediated. Self-determination did not exert a significant direct effect and 72% of its total effect on strenuous exercise was indirect via the goal processes of self-monitoring, planning, and positive arousal for exercise goals. Conclusions Findings support the utility of goal process cognition as a means of understanding how self-determination influences strenuous exercise behavior.
Splenic autotransplantation: Determination of the optimum amount required for maximum survival

Splenic salvage in cases of traumatic or iatrogenic injuries may require autotransplantation of splenic fragments when splenorrhaphy or partial splenectomy is not possible. There are no studies which address the issue concerning the optimal amount of spleen to be transplanted in order to yield maximal survival in a model of pneumococcal sepsis. This study uses a Sprague-Dawley rat model to attempt to clarify this issue. Animals were divided into seven groups: control, total splenectomy, 25, 40, 60, 80, and 100% omental pouch autotransplantation. These animals were challenged with intravenous Streptococcus pneumonia Type I after 24 weeks, and mortality and blood culture results were monitored. Transplants were recovered and weights were compared with the weights originally transplanted. Survival and blood culture results were seen to improve in a linear quantitative fashion as the amount of spleen autotransplanted increased up to 80%, after which no further improvement was seen. This data supports the autotransplantation of 80% of the spleen in the Sprague-Dawley rat as the optimum amount to achieve maximal survival in a model of pneumococcal sepsis.
Interaction of Sendai Vital F, HN, and M Proteins with Host Cytoskeletal and Lipid Components in Sendai Virus-Infected BHK Cells

Abstract We have studied the interaction of Sendai vital fusion (F), hemagglutinin/neuraminidase (H/N), and matrix (M) proteins with host cytoskeletal and lipid components in Sendai virus-infected BHK cells using two nonionic detergents Triton X-100 (TX-100) and octyl glucoside (OG). Our results show that while M protein acquired resistance to both TX-100 and OG extraction, F and HN exhibited insolubility only to TX-100 but not to OG. Furthermore, in the presence of high salt (1 M NaCl), M, but not F or HN, became TX-100 soluble. Both type I (F) and type II (HN) viral glycoproteins acquired TX-100 insolubility at a late stage during exocytic transport as they acquired endo H resistance. In addition, TX-100 insoluble F and HN exhibited a lighter density compared to TX-100 resistant M by flotation analysis. Using recombinant vaccinia viruses that express Sendai virus HN, F, or M protein individually, we observed that each viral protein (F, HN, or M) was independently capable of acquiring TX-100 insolubility in the absence of other vital components. These results would indicate that while Sendai vital F and HN became bound to TX-100 insoluble lipids, M protein bound ionically to TX-100 insoluble cytoskeletal components and not to TX-100 insoluble lipids.
A valence force field for thiophene and its deuterium and methyl derivatives

Abstract To obtain reliable vibrational assignments for use in statistical thermodynamic calculations, a valence force field was derived from 300 observed vibrational wavenumbers of thiophene, 8 deuterium derivatives, and 6 methyl derivatives. Of the 45 force constants, 25 were adjusted to fit the a1, b1, and a′ fundamentals; 14 were adjusted to fit the a2, b2, and a″ fundamentals; and 6 pertaining to the methyl group were transferred from other molecules. The mean deviation of the calculated wavenumbers from the observed ones was 7.3 cm−1 or 0.73% for the a1, b1, and a′ species and 2.6 cm−1 or 0.46% for the a2, b2, and a″ species. A vibrational assignment proposed in the literature for the parent compound was substantiated, and reliable vibrational assignments were obtained for the two monomethyl and four dimethyl derivatives.
Mediating Employment Disputes at the United States Postal Service: A Comparison of In-house and Outside Neutral Mediator Models

The United States Postal Service (USPS) has been engaged in experimentation with various models and forms of mediation for employment discrimination disputes since 1994 This study examines perceptions of procedural justice in a natural field experiment An upstate New York USPS district implemented an inside neutral model of mediation -that is, a model using existing USPS employees trained as mediators, for the period 1996 to 1998 In 1998 to the present, the USPS implemented a new, outside neutral model nationwide Under this model, outside neutral indepen dent contractors, compensated but not employed by the USPS, provide mediation services
Human TCR-gamma+/delta+, CD8+ T lymphocytes recognize tetanus toxoid in an MHC-restricted fashion.

We have analyzed the ability of human gamma+/delta+ T cells to recognize a nominal antigen in association with MHC molecules. A TT-specific T cell line with approximately 40% gamma+/delta+ T cells was established from a hyperimmunized donor, D.F., by stimulation with antigen and autologous APC. Three DF-derived gamma+/delta+ clones were CD8+ as determined by immunofluorescence staining, and by Southern and Northern blotting with probes detecting delta chain rearrangement and delta and gamma chain transcripts, respectively. The gamma+/delta+ clones responded to stimulation with TT, but not TNP-BSA, and autologous APC by proliferation and IFN-gamma production. No proliferation or IFN-gamma production was detected when TT-specific T cell clones were stimulated with either TT or autologous APC only. The response to TT was enhanced by addition of exogenous IL-2. The use of allogeneic APC from 19 donors sharing one HLA-determinant with the autologous donor D.F., showed that the gamma+/delta+ T cells responded to TT with HLA-DR4-related restriction as measured by proliferation and IFN-gamma production. These results demonstrate that gamma/delta receptors can recognize non-MHC-encoded foreign antigen in a self-MHC-restricted fashion.
Search for CP violation in Ξ and A hyperon decays: Status of the HyperCP experiment

HyperCP (E871), a Fermilab experiment searching for CP violation in Ξ and A hyperon decays, finished its first data taking run at the end of 1997, and accumulated over one billion Ξ − and ¯Ξ + decays. A sensitivity of approximately 2×10 −4 in A ΞΛ (αΞαΛ - α¯Ξα¯Λ)/(αΞαΛ + α¯Ξα¯Λ) is expected. A non-zero value of A ΞΛ would be unambiguous evidence for direct CP violation. A brief review of CP violation in hyperon decays is given, the HyperCP spectrometer is described, and the status of the analysis and future prospects are discussed.
Civil Engineering Department

The Department of Civil Engineering at the University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA offers programs of study at both the undergraduate and graduate (Master's and Ph.D.) levels. Students may specialize in the traditional fields of Civil Engineering, including applied mechanics, structures, geotechnical engineering, traffic and transportation, and environmental and water resources engineering. There are fourteen faculty in the Department, actively engaged in teaching, research, and administration. Current faculty research interests and laboratory facilities available to support the experimental programs are described.
The Microstructure and Chemistry of the Reaction between Ti and α-Al2O3

The Ti/A12O3 system is being considered for advanced aerospace applications and is important in microelectronics where Ti is used for metallization on A12O3 substrates. We have studied the intrinsic reactivity of Ti with the R-plane (10T2) surface of α-A12O3 by x-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. XPS results indicate that a for deposition of several monolayers of Ti at 25 °C, the Ti reduces the A12O3 surface to produce Ti-O bonds. At 1000 °C the Ti reduces the A12O3 to produce Ti-O and Ti-Al bonds. Cross-section TEM specimens were prepared from 200 nm thick Ti films deposited on A12O3 at 25 and 800 °C to observe the interface region. In samples deposited at 25 and 800 °C, without further annealing, no reaction zone could be seen in the TEM. Ordered Ti3Al (78 ± 5 Ti, 16 ± 3 Al and 6 ± 3 0 wt pct) was observed in a sample deposited at 25 °C and annealed at 800 °C for 2 hours.
X-Ray Jets as Cosmic Beacons

The Chandra X-Ray Observatory has proved to have the unique capability to detect jets and hot spots in quasars and radio sources. If X-rays from any of the observed objects are due to inverse Compton scattering of relativistic electrons on the cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation, then such an object will be detectable with the same surface brightness anywhere in the more distant universe. This is because the enhancement of the CMB energy density by a factor of (1 + z)4 compensates for the (1 + z)-4 decrease of surface brightness. These may already have been detected in X-ray surveys, and we point out the unique considerations that must be applied to correctly identify them, namely, that the jets could outshine the parent quasars, that a few arcsecond X-ray position circle will likely not include the quasar, and that the X-ray source will be resolved with telescopes that have 2'' resolution. We predict that Chandra will detect many of these in the next observing cycle, for example, in a distant Sloan survey quasar or the ROSAT X-ray source PKS 2215+020.
Efficacy and safety of ultra-low-dose Vagifem (10 mcg)

Vulvovaginal atrophy [VVA] is defined as inflammation of the vaginal epithelium due to atrophy secondary to decreased levels of circulating estrogen. There is currently only one approved method for the treatment of VVA, and that is the administration of exogenous estrogens. Overall, the ideal VVA treatment must have benefits, minimize risks, and enhance compliance in the patient while optimizing cost-effectiveness. Unfortunately, of the approximate 25% of symptomatic women that are thought to seek medical help, the proportion that receives hormone therapy may be small and its duration of use is short. Women have been very reluctant to take hormone therapy due to widely publicized results of the risks associated with hormone therapy. Thus, while menopausal hormone therapy was once accepted as the ideal approach for optimizing changes associated with menopause, prospective randomized clinical trials have challenged that view and have led to a marked decrease in the use of such therapy and increased search for low-dose therapies. This article will highlight the efficacy and safety of recently FDA-approved Vagifem (10 mcg) in treatment of VVA.
Minimizing Formaldehyde Use in the Synthesis of Gold−Silver Core−Shell Nanoparticles

Through a careful analysis of the role of formaldehyde in the preparation of silver nanomaterials, a previously unnoticed function of the reagent has been discovered. Formaldehyde reacts with ammonium hydroxide to form a polymer that changes how silver attaches to and coats a substrate. In the case of a gold nanoparticle substrate, this polymer is responsible for creating a nonconcentric core−shell nanoparticle with a near-infrared plasmon resonance at 700 nm. In contrast, when conditions do not favor synthesis of this polymer, concentric nanoparticles are formed that have a plasmon resonance between that of gold and silver at 498 nm. Understanding this second role of formaldehyde allowed us to decrease the amount used 100-fold compared to previous methods, providing a greener synthesis. In addition, it is shown that ascorbic acid can function as a partial substitute for formaldehyde in this synthesis. This strategy may be effective at minimizing or eliminating formaldehyde from the synthesis of other cor...
PERFECTIONISM AND MILLON BASIC PERSONALITY PATTERNS

The major purpose of this exploratory study was to examine the relation between perfectionism and Millon's basic personality patterns. The subjects were 91 clients (60 women and 31 men) at two midwestern university counseling services (ns = 38 and 24) and a private-practice office (n = 29). The subjects completed the Millon inventory and two perfectionism scales in one session. Scores on perfectionism were most strongly related to the passive-aggressive, avoidant, schizoid, and dependent scores. Also, there was a significant negative relation between perfectionism and the compulsive pattern. It was suggested that the present study be replicated with the Millon-II and that the differences between perfectionism and compulsiveness be explored further.
Conceptualization and measurement of doing family caregiving well.

Purpose: To review progress in the conceptualization and measurement of five concepts related to doing family caregiving well: caregiving mastery, self-efficacy, competence, preparedness, and quality. Families are increasingly involved in providing complex care to ill or aged family members at home. Their ability to do caregiving well is vitally important and a focus of nursing practice in many clinical settings. Organizing framework: Concepts were organized into two groups: those that refer to caregivers' perceptions of how well they are providing care and those that refer to professional assessment of the quality of care provided. Sources: Family caregiving literature from nursing, gerontology, psychology, and social work, 1987–1996. Findings: There is growing interest in doing family caregiving well. However, research in this area is limited by the current state of development of ideas and measures. Conclusions: Two issues that should be addressed to advance research are the perspective taken on doing caregiving well and change over time in doing caregiving well. Conceptualizacion y medida de la ejecucion de un buen cuidado familiar Proposito: Revisar el progreso de la conceptualizacion y medida de cinco conceptos relacionados a la ejecucion de un buen cuidado familiar: Dominio del cuidado, autoeficacia, competencia, optima preparacion y calidad. Las familias estan mas envueltas en proveer cuidados complejos a los miembros enfermos y envejecidos dentro del hogar. La capacidad de ellos para entregar un cuidado bueno es de vital importancia y este es el enfoque de la practica de la enfermeria en muchas situaciones clinicas. Marco conceptual: Este se organizo en dos grupos. El primer grupo era de aquellos que hacian referencias a las percepciones de los proveedores de cuidado de cuan bien lo ejecutaban. El otro grupo eran los que se referian al estimado profesional de la calidad del cuidado provisto por el familiar. Alcances y recursos: Literatura de cuidado familiar, de enfermeria, gerontologia, psicologia, y trabajo social de 1987–1996. Hallazgos: Existe un interes creciente en la ejecucion de un buen cuidado familiar, sin embargo las investigaciones en esta area estan limitadas por el estado de desarrollo de las ideas y medidas. Dos puntos de interes que deberian ser considerados para adelantar estas investigaciones son; la perspectiva de ejecutarlo en una forma apropiada y el cambio a traves del tiempo en la ejecucion del mismo.
The Effect of Cement Viscosity in Total Knee Arthroplasty

Aseptic loosening of the tibial implant remains one of the major reasons of failure in Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA). Currently, there is no consensus on the role that cement viscosity at the time of application to the bone plays in ensuring the long-term success of the arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between cement viscosity and aseptic loosening of tibial implants. Three cements (Depuy 2, Palacos R (high viscosity cements) and Simplex-P, a medium viscosity cement) were compared during TKA through radiographic analysis and mechanical loading tests using surrogate tibia. Cement penetration was measured from radiographs of the constructs and analyzed according to the Knee Society Total Knee Arthroplasty Roentgenographic Evaluation System. Simplex-P had the maximum cumulative penetration in seven zones in the mediolateral view, and three zones in antero-posterior view. Simplex exhibited maximum penetration in zone 7 in the antero-posterior view, and in zone 3 in the lateral view. For the mechanical tests the TKA constructs were subjected to cyclic compressive loading in the sagittal plane. Simplex-P had the smallest micro-motion in sagittal plane, the results were significant when compared to Palacos R. The consistently superior performance of Simplex-P suggests that cement viscosity does indeed play a role in arthroplasty success. These results have direct clinical relevance for TKA patients suffering from aseptic loosening.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Variables associated with reading and math achievement among a heterogeneous group of students

Abstract The characteristics of over- and underachievers are delineated within a sample of 372 randomly selected public school children, aged 6 through 17 years, from three racial-ethnic groups and two levels of socioeconomic status (SES). Assessment instruments included the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised, selected scales from the System of Multicultural Pluralistic Assessment, the California Achievement Test, and the Sequential Tests of Educational Progress. A regression equation, predicting achievers on the basis of IQ was used to identify cutoff points for the selection of over- and underachievers (i.e., discrepant achievers). A control group of normal achievement demographically similar to the total sample (i.e., in respect to age, gender, SES, and race), also was selected. Over- and underachievers in reading and math were compared with each other and with the normal controls with respect to age, gender, SES, race, family size, and family structure. Discrepant achievement was not found to be unique to a particular race, level of intelligence, gender, age, family size, or degree of family intactness. Only two significant differences were observed in reading and none were observed in math. Both over- and underachievers tended to be born later than persons of normal achievement. Also, lower-SES blacks were underrepresented and middle-SES blacks were overrepresented among underachievers. Follow-up data over a 3-year period indicated that discrepant achievement was found to be neither chronic nor persistent. This finding, if replicated in other longitudinal research on this topic, seriously challenges the interpretation from cross-sectional studies that over- and underachievement tends to be stable.
Stimulation and release from neurons via a dual capillary collection device interfaced to mass spectrometry

Neuropeptides are cell to cell signaling molecules that modulate a wide range of physiological processes. Neuropeptide release has been studied in sample sizes ranging from single cells and neuronal clusters, to defined brain nuclei and large brain regions. We have developed and optimized cell stimulation and collection approaches for the efficient measurement of neuropeptide release from neuronal samples using a dual capillary system. The defining feature is a capillary that contains octadecyl-modified silica nanoparticles on its inner wall to capture and extract releasates. This collection capillary is inserted into another capillary used to deliver solutions that chemically stimulate the cells, with solution flowing up the inner capillary to facilitate peptide collection. The efficiency of peptide collection was evaluated using six peptide standards mixed in physiological saline. The extracted peptides eluted from these capillaries were characterized via matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) with low femtomole detection limits. Using the capillary collection system in small custom-fabricated culturing chambers, individual cultured neurons and neuronal clusters from the model animal Aplysia californica were stimulated with distinct neuronal secretagogues and the releasates were collected and characterized using MALDI-TOF MS.
Relational to Collective: Significant-Other Representations, Ethnic Categories, and Intergroup Perceptions

Social perception is known to be affected by the social-cognitive process of transference—that is, by a new person bearing a minimal resemblance to a significant other, which activates the significant-other representation and indirectly the relational self. We examined relational processes in social identity and intergroup bias in two studies testing the dual hypothesis—that activating a significant-other representation in transference activates the significant other's ethnic category, which is then applied to the new person, and that under this circumstance the participant's own ethnic identity should also be activated as the relational self is activated, particularly if the participant shares the significant other's ethnicity. This should lead to shifts in intergroup bias as moderated by the ethnic diversity of the significant other's own social network. The evidence largely supports this, revealing the interplay of relational and collective levels of self.
Effect of biofilm growth on steady‐state biofilm models

The results of numerical simulations for a growing biological film are presented to justify the use of steady-state biofilm models for approximating the behavior of both unlimited and shear-limited biofilms. For an unlimited biofilm we show that although the total biofilm thickness may continue to increase over time, the active biofilm volume will reach a constant value. We also show that the profile of active microorganisms within the biofilm will become constant with respect to the biofilm/fluid interface and simply move outward as the biofilm thickness increases. For a shear-limited biofilm we similarly show that once a "limiting" thickness has been reached the active biofilm volume, substrate consumption, and profile of active microorganisms within the biofilm will also be independent of the biofilm thickness.
The Use of Randomisation in Educational Research and Evaluation: A Critical Analysis of Underlying Assumptions.

Abstract This article considers the underlying assumptions related to the use of random assignment in educational research and evaluation; more specifically, the ability of random assignment to create similar comparison groups for the purpose of determining the effectiveness of educational programmes. In theory, randomly assigning individuals to comparison groups is considered to be the best method available for creating similar groups; however, in educational research designed to identify proven best practices, random assignment of individuals is rarely possible; other methods including random assignment of intact units and nonrandom selection techniques are often used. Using a database simulation, this study explored the degree to which various methods might be effective at creating comparable groups. Given the complex dynamics of the teaching and learning process and the abundance of potentially confounding variables, it seems likely that comparison groups will always be dissimilar to some degree. Whil...
Effects of nicotine and cotinine on bovine theca interna and granulosa cells.

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine if nicotine or cotinine inhibits steroidogenesis in the ovarian follicle. Theca interna and granulosa cells were isolated from bovine follicles, cultured with nicotine or cotinine for 24 h, and culture media were assayed for androstenedione or estradiol. Treatment of theca interna with 6, 60, and 600 μM nicotine decreased ( P ≤0.002) production of androstenedione to 55, 53, and 24% of control levels, respectively. Levels of androstenedione in theca interna treated with cotinine were not different from control values. In granulosa cells, nicotine inhibited production of estradiol at the highest dose tested. Treatment with 600 μM nicotine decreased ( P ≤0.001) estradiol concentration to 12% of control values, attributable to a general cytotoxic effect. Cotinine had no effect on estradiol production by granulosa cells. These results provide novel evidence for inhibitory effects of nicotine on androgen production by theca interna.
Converted PS-wave Reflection Coefficients in Weakly Anisotropic Media

I derive converted PS-wave reflection coefficients at a planar weak-contrast interface separating two weakly anisotropic half-spaces using first-order perturbation theory. The general expressions are further specified for the interface separating any of the two following media: isotropic, transversely isotropic with a vertical symmetry axis (VTI), transversely isotropic with a horizontal symmetry axis (HTI) and orthorhombic. Relatively simple forms of small-angle reflection coefficients are also obtained. The coefficients are expressed as functions of Thomsen-type medium parameters and incidence and azimuthal phase angles. Derived expressions, as well as their application, are more complicated than the corresponding expressions for PP-wave reflection coefficients. General characteristics and pitfalls are discussed. Numerical tests reveal a good agreement between exact and approximate coefficients for most models presented.
Data-driven approach for assessing utility of medical tests using electronic medical records

Display Omitted We define the information content of medical tests using entropic measures.Data are from the electronic medical record of patients.Blood test results are coupled to second surgery within 30days.Results correspond well to clinical knowledge.Tests with a substantial negative impact will benefit from having the information content specified. ObjectiveTo precisely define the utility of tests in a clinical pathway through data-driven analysis of the electronic medical record (EMR). Materials and methodsThe information content was defined in terms of the entropy of the expected value of the test related to a given outcome. A kernel density classifier was used to estimate the necessary distributions. To validate the method, we used data from the EMR of the gastrointestinal department at a university hospital. Blood tests from patients undergoing surgery for gastrointestinal surgery were analyzed with respect to second surgery within 30days of the index surgery. ResultsThe information content is clearly reflected in the patient pathway for certain combinations of tests and outcomes. C-reactive protein tests coupled to anastomosis leakage, a severe complication show a clear pattern of information gain through the patient trajectory, where the greatest gain from the test is 3-4days post index surgery. DiscussionWe have defined the information content in a data-driven and information theoretic way such that the utility of a test can be precisely defined. The results reflect clinical knowledge. In the case we used the tests carry little negative impact. The general approach can be expanded to cases that carry a substantial negative impact, such as in certain radiological techniques.
Partial Purification and Characterization of Chicken Corticosteroid-Binding Globulin

Abstract Affinity chromatography of pooled chicken serum yielded a solution in which 45% of the protein was corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG). Further purification by single passes through hydroxylapatite and Biogel A-.5m resulted in a final product with about 91% purity. The molecular weight was 56,000 daltons as determined by gel filtration and 63,000 as determined by sodium dodecysulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The amino acid composition was similar to that of mammalian CBG’s when compared on the basis of total amino acid residues of each type. However, the avian CBG was much lower than mammalian CBG in half-cystine residues. The corticosteroid-binding ability of the purified CBG was increased up to tenfold by treatment with dithiothreitol (DTT). Of several cations tested, Mg2+, Ca2+, Zn2+, and Mn2+ exhibited some synergism with DTT, but were ineffective by themselves; Cu2+ was inhibitory. The association constant toward corticosterone at 4° was 3.6 × 107 M−1. Unlike mammalian CBG, which does not bind dexamethasone, the chicken CBG binds dexamethasone with almost the same affinity as corticosterone.
The analysis of polychlorinated biphenyls by multidimensional gas chromatography

Description d'une technique chromatographique gazeuse capillaire multidimensionnelle utilisant une phase liquide cristalline dans la seconde colonne. Cette technique a ete utilisee pour determiner la concentration d'un nombre de congeneres du PCB dans un sediment de riviere. Les resultats ont ete compares a ceux obtenus avec un detecteur a capture d'electrons
Demonstration of a power-recycled Michelson interferometer with Fabry-Perot arms by frontal modulation.

Large-scale gravitational-wave detectors currently under construction such as the LIGO detectors use multiple-mirror resonant optical systems containing several surfaces at which the relative phase of interfering light beams must be controlled. We describe a tabletop experiment that demonstrates a scheme for extracting signals in such an interferometer corresponding to deviations from perfect interference.