cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Studies of flavin-adenine dinucleotide-requiring enzymes and phenothiazines—II: Structural requirements for D-amino acid oxidase inhibition

Abstract The effect of various phenothiazines on the activity of D -amino acid oxidase of purified hog kidney was studied in a manometric system established at pH 7·3. Analysis of the parallel dose-effect curves showed the order of inhibitory potency to be as follows: trifluoperazine > thioridazine and fluphenazine > perphenazine > chlorpromazine. This order is related to the clinical efficacy and potency of these drugs in antipsychotic treatment. Phenothiazines with little or no antipsychotic activity failed to inhibit D -amino acid oxidase. Kinetic analysis demonstrated that the phenothiazines competed with flavin-adenine dinucleotide for the apoenzyme.
ACQUISITION HARDWARE FOR DIGITAL IMAGING

Use of digital radiography is growing rapidly in veterinary medicine. Two basic digital imaging systems are available, computed radiography (CR) and direct digital radiography (DDR). Computed radiographic detectors use a two-step process for image capture and processing. Image capture is by X-ray sensitive phosphors in the image plate. The image plate reader transforms the latent phosphor image to light photons that are converted to an analog electrical signal. An analog to digital converter is used to digitize the electrical signal before computer analysis. Direct digital detectors provide digital data by direct readout after image capture--a reader unnecessary. Types of DDR detectors are flat panel detectors and charge coupled device (CCD) detectors. Flat panel detectors are composed of layers of semiconductors for image capture with transistor and microscopic circuitry embedded in a pixel array. Direct converting flat panel detectors convert incident X-rays directly into electrical charges. Indirect detectors convert X-rays to visible light, then to electrical charges. All flat panel detectors send a digitized electrical signal to a computer using a direct link. Charge coupled device detectors have a small chip similar to those used in digital cameras. A scintillator first converts X-rays to a light signal that is minified by an optical system before reaching the chip. The chip sends a digital signal directly to a computer. Both CR and DDR provide quality diagnostic images. CR is a mature technology while DDR is an emerging technology.
CM-Pack'01: Fast Legged Robot Walking, Robust Localization, and Team Behaviors

CM-Pack'01 came in second place at RoboCup-2001 in the Sony Legged League. This is our fourth year competiting in this league. We used a simplified architecture this year. Our vision, localization, and behaviors ran synchronously with the camera input while our motions remained an asynchronous process. We focused on reducing latency and increasing timeliness and completeness of environment modelling for this year. We used more structured software engineering this year than in previous years and found this very useful[4].
Perception as Bayesian Inference

1. Introduction D. C. Knill, D. Kersten and A. Yuille 2. Pattern theory: a unifying perspective D. Mumford 3. Modal structure and reliable inference A. Jepson, W. Richards and D. C. Knill 4. Priors, preferences and categorical percepts W. Richards, A. Jepson and J. Feldman 5. Bayesian decision theory and psychophysics A. L. Yuille and H. H. Bulthoff 6. Observer theory, Bayes theory, and psychophysics B. M. Bennett, D. D. Hoffman, C. Prakash and S. N. Richman 7. Implications of a Bayesian formulation D. C. Knill, D. Kersten and P. Mamassian 8. Shape from texture: ideal observers and human psychophysics A. Blake, H. H. Bulthoff and D. Sheinberg 9. A computational theory for binocular stereopsis P. N. Belhumeur 10. The generic viewpoint assumption in a Bayesian framework W. T. Freeman 11. Experiencing and perceiving visual surfaces K. Nakayama and S. Shimojo 12. The perception of shading and reflectance E. H. Adelson and A. P. Pentland 13. Banishing the Homunculus H. Barlow.
Training may affect primary care staff access to the biomedical electronic evidence base

A review of: Doney, Liz, Helen Barlow, and Joe West. “Use of Libraries and Electronic Information Resources by Primary Care Staff: Outcomes from a Survey.” Health Information and Libraries Journal 22.3 (September 2005): 182-188. Objective – To assess use of existing local libraries, the Internet, and biomedical databases by primary care staff prior to implementation of the Primary Care Knowledge Management Projects. Additionally, to assess the need to train primary care staff to use the Internet and biomedical databases. Design – Cross-sectional postal questionnaire survey. Setting – Nottingham and Rotherham, two cities in the Trent region of the UK. Subjects – Questionnaires were analyzed from 243 general practitioners, practice nurses, and practice managers in four Nottingham primary care trusts as well as practices in the Rotherham Health Authority area. Methods – Questionnaires and cover letters were sent between May 2001 and February 2002. To encourage response, a postage-paid envelope was enclosed. A total of 709 questionnaires were sent in Nottingham, and 169 were returned for a response rate of 24%. In Rotherham, 179 questionnaires were sent and 61 returned, for a 34% response rate. Thirteen responses from a May 2001 pilot in Rotherham were also included in the data analysis. Survey questions included a variety of formats, including tick boxes and open-ended questions. Data was entered into an Access database and analysis was performed using Stata software. Main results – Reported use of libraries was low overall, with only 30% of respondents claiming to have used library facilities. However, there was significant variation among professional groups. Practice nurses (PNs) had significantly higher usage of libraries than general practitioners (GPs) and practice managers (P Conclusion – Based on the results of this admittedly small study, additional training is needed – and desired – by primary care staff in both Nottingham and Rotherham. Developing and offering training in Internet searching and evaluation as well as use of the biomedical databases is one important way in which libraries can build partnerships with primary care practitioners. This will also enable added numbers of primary care staff to access and use the clinical evidence knowledge base. Additional studies are needed to identify and overcome barriers to training.
Mode of Action of Streptolydigin

Streptolydigin and rifamycin inhibit the catalytic function of ribonucleic acid (RNA) polymerase. Streptolydigin can inhibit polymerization after the reaction has started, whereas rifamycin is effective only if it is preincubated with RNA polymerase prior to the addition of substrates. The same relationships are observed with respect to these two antibiotics if the nucleoside triphosphate-pyrophosphate exchange reaction is used in the assay system. The inhibitory effect of streptolydigin is reversible by further addition of RNA polymerase but not by addition of deoxyribonucleic acid to the assay system.
Effects of epinephrine in local anesthetics on the central and peripheral nervous systems: Neurotoxicity and neural blood flow.

Epinephrine has been combined with neuraxial and peripheral local anesthetics since Heinrich Braun first experimented with its use as a “chemical tourniquet” in the early 1900s.1 A century of use attests to the general safety of adjuvant epinephrine, yet we have only modest understanding of its intended effects, which include prolonging block duration, reducing plasma concentration of local anesthetics, reducing surgical bleeding, and intensifying anesthesia and analgesia.2-5 The long-held belief that epinephrine exerts most of these effects, including any associated complications, by causing vasoconstriction is doubtlessly too simplistic and has been recently challenged. The few controlled studies that focus on adverse side effects of adjuvant epinephrine are often difficult to interpret and compare because of interspecies differences in neural blood flow,6,7 the technical challenges of measuring epinephrine’s evanescent physiologic effects, and the confounding hemodynamic influences of local anesthetics. After briefly considering the pharmacology of epinephrine, this review examines evidence for its untoward effects when applied to the neuraxial or peripheral nervous systems as part of a regional anesthetic technique. Information is organized by how neurotoxicity is manifested—histopathologic and behavioral effects, physiologic effects, and undesirable clinical consequences.8
Oscillator strengths for Ar VII, Ca IX and Fe XV

The excitation energies and oscillator strengths are calculated for electric-dipole-allowed and intercombination transitions between 3s2 1S, 3s3p(1,3)P0, 3p2 3P, 1D, 1S and 3s3d(1,3)D states in Ar VII, Ca IX, and Fe XV ions of the magnesium sequence. These states are represented by the fairly large configuration-interaction expansions. The calculations have been carried out in both LS and intermediate coupling schemes. The relativistic corrections have been included through the Breit-Pauli Hamiltonian. The results are compared with previous theoretical calculations and with measurements.
A relationship between diffusional transport in lipid membranes and a lipophilic-eutectic parameter

A theoretical model has been developed to relate passive diffusional transport with a parameter termed the lipophilic-eutectic coefficient, L c . Based on this parameter it is proposed that the lipophilicity of a substance can be estimated. The method is based on the melting point lowering of a pure substance in the presence of an impurity of similar structure. Cholesterol was chosen as a model biological lipid because it is a neutral lipid that is found in relatively high concentrations in a variety of membranes. Transdermal absorption in humans and intestinal absorption in the rat both show a high degree of correlation with respect to L c . For our studies, L c appears to be as satisfactory as the partition coefficient for estimating lipophilicity and its determination is less demanding analytically.
GluA2 AMPA glutamate receptor subunit exhibits codon 607 Q/R RNA editing in the lens

Abstract Regulated GluA2 AMPA receptor subunit expression, RNA editing, and membrane localization are fundamental determinants of neuronal Ca2+ influx, and underlie basic functions such as memory and the primary brain disorder epilepsy. Consistent with this, AMPARs, and specifically GluA2, are targets of common antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) and antidepressants. Recently, epidemiological associations between epilepsy and increased cataract prevalence were found comparable to cataract links with diabetes and smoking. Similarly, use of AEDs and several antidepressants also showed links with increased cataract. Here, we demonstrated GluA2 in lenses, consistent with REST/NRSF and REST4 we described previously in lenses, as well as GluA1 and ADAR2 in the lens. Surprisingly, we found predominant neuron-like Q/R editing of GluA2 RNAs also occurs in the lens and evidence of lens GluA2 phosphorylation and STEP phosphatases linked with GluA2 membrane localization in neurons. This study is among the first to show GluA2 expression and predominant Q/R RNA editing in a non-neural cell. Our results suggest GluA2 AMPARs have related roles in lens physiology and disease processes, and provide evidence these anticonvulsant and antidepressant drug targets also occur in the lens.
The Individual Housing Account

This paper summarizes the available information about the proposed Individual Housing Account (IHA), a tax-exempt savings account designed to facilitate the accumulation of the downpayment on a home for would-be first-time homebuyers. We review both the limited body of U.S. research and data on a similar Canadian program which has been in existence since 1974. We find little evidence to suggest that the IHA would stimulate homeownership or housing construction to any noticeable extent. It would enable potential buyers to save enough for a downpayment more rapidly than they now can, but this would increase homeownership only during the start-up period for the program, not in the long run. We also estimate the foregone tax revenues from the program to be in the neighborhood of $2 to $3 billion annually, once the program has reached maturity.
A generalized method for matching informational macromolecular code sequences.

Abstract The major outlines of an exhaustive algorithm which discovers the optimal correspondence of a pair of code strings from a pre-specified alphabet is presented. The measure of the quality of correspondence is the information required to effect the mutations indicated by the correspondence. This formulation is shown to lead naturally to expressions for the penalty for introducing gaps, an ad hoc feature of previous approaches. The limitations of earlier algorithms of this type are delineated, and a non-trivial example of the matching of two partial sequences of Tyrosyl t-RNA from E. coli and Baker's yeast is given.
A 600 GHz Asymmetrical Orthogonal Mode Transducer

Development of dual-polarization sensitive receivers offers significant advantages for future terahertz radiometers. The key to any such system is the orthogonal mode transducer (OMT) which separates two superimposed modes into two single-mode waveguides. This letter presents the design, fabrication and measurement of a split-block asymmetrical OMT operating from 500 to 600 GHz.
Enterohepatic Recirculation and Renal Metabolism of Morphine in the Rat

Abstract Morphine (2.5 mg/kg) was administered iv to intact (I), bile duct-cannulated (BC), and bile duct-cannulated–renal-ligated (BC–RL) rats (n = 4 per group) to investigate the extent of enterohepatic recirculation and renal metabolism of the drug. A decrease in the serum area under the concentration–time curve (AUC) was observed for the BC in comparison with I rats. From these AUC values, it was determined that ~16% of the administered dose was subject to enterohepatic recirculation. In addition, a statistically significant (p
A Framework for Evaluating High-Level Design Methodologies for High-Performance Reconfigurable Computers

High-performance reconfigurable computers have potential to provide substantial performance improvements over traditional supercomputers. Their acceptance, however, has been hindered by productivity challenges arising from increased design complexity, a wide array of custom design languages and tools, and often overblown sales literature. This paper presents a review and taxonomy of High-Level Languages (HLLs) and a framework for the comparative analysis of their features. It also introduces new metrics and a model based on computational effort. The proposed concepts are inspired by Netwon's equations of motion and the notion of work and power in an abstract multidimensional space of design specifications. The metrics are devised to highlight two aspects of the design process: the total time-to-solution and the efficient utilization of user and computing resources at discrete time steps along the development path. The study involves analytical and experimental evaluations demonstrating the applicability of the proposed model.
Utilization of parenteral nutrition following pancreaticoduodenectomy: is routine jejunostomy tube placement warranted?

Introduction Complications following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) often necessitate nutritional support. This study analyzes the utilization of parenteral nutrition (TPN) during the surgical admission as evidence for or against routine jejunostomy placement. Methods The California Cancer Registry (1994–2003) was linked to the California Inpatient File; PD for adenocarcinoma was performed in 1,873 patients. TPN use and enterostomy tube placement were determined and preoperative characteristics predictive of TPN use during the surgical admission were identified. Results Fourteen percent of patients received TPN, 23% underwent enterostomy tube placement, and 63% received no supplemental nutritional support. TPN was associated with longer hospital stay (18 vs. 13 days, P < 0.0001). The Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) ≥ 3 had nearly two-fold greater odds of receiving TPN (odds ratio [OR] = 1.85, P < 0.005). Conclusion Approximately 1 in 6 patients undergoing PD received TPN, which was associated with prolonged hospital stay. CCI ≥ 3 was associated with increased odds of TPN utilization. Selected jejunostomy placement in patients with high CCI is worthy of consideration.
Finite strain and rotation from fault-slip data

Abstract The moment tensor summation (MTS) characterizes the infinitesimal strain of a region due to fault rupture during an earthquake. Tectonic strain on a much longer time scale can be found by applying the MTS to fault-slip data, which represent cumulative fault displacement. However, the traditional MTS assumes infinitesimal strain, which may not be appropriate for cumulative displacement on faults. Therefore, it is necessary to examine whether a finite strain treatment is more appropriate. We develop a method to find finite strain from fault-slip data (FSFS) and use it to illuminate two general faulting problems: finite strain and block rotation. First, the FSFS method is compared to the MTS using both synthetic and real fault data. Strain due to faults must be high (> 60% elongation) before the infinitesimal strain approximation produces errors greater than the variation of typical field data. However, some regions do exhibit very high fault strains and require finite strain analysis. Second, the FSFS method is used to solve for rotation in regions cut by domino-style faults, a common model for high fault strains and rotation. Given an arbitrary rigid boundary, the method can be used to relate fault strain and block rotation. For example, a paleomagnetic rotation of 40° requires fault strain with a minimum finite elongation of 41%.
Understanding the medical treatment of dementia

In part three, Linda Nazarko updates you on the current treatments aimed at preventing or slowing the progress of this disorder.
Unipolar current transport through metal-insulator-metal (MIM) structures, supplied with barrier contacts, in the diffusion limit

Abstract The diffusion-limited unipolar current density-voltage (j−V) dependencies through semi-insulating materials supplied with two barrier contacts have been computed. Two cases are treated. In the first, the sum of the two quiescent barrier thicknesses is less than the specimen thickness. Here there are three successive j−V regimes: At low voltages ( less than V th = kT e ),j∞V , at medium voltages, j∞√V, and at high voltages j∞ V L but much less in magnitude than the true ohmic current density. In the second case, the sum of the two quiescent barrier thicknesses exceeds the specimen thickness and the j∞ρV does not develop; only the two linear regimes are obtained separated by a short transitional interval over which the current is generally sublinear. The analysis is meant to apply to the practical cases of wide bandgap, insulating materials supplied with either rectifying or poorly characterized electrodes and to emphasize that a j∞ V L regime may develop that can easily be misinterpreted as Ohm's Law.
Heat capacities of polyethylene and linear aliphatic polyoxides

Abstract Heat capacities at constant pressure and volume are calculated from full and partially approximated normal mode frequency spectra for crystalline polyethylene, poly(oxymethylene), poly(oxyethylene), poly(oxytrimethylene), poly(oxytetramethylene), poly(oxyoctamethylene), poly(oxymethyleneoxyethylene), and poly(oxymethyleneoxytetramethylene). A calculation scheme using a Tarasov-function for 2 N skeletal modes and approximation of the residual normal modes from known data on polyethylene and poly(oxymethylene) is developed for all homologous, linear, aliphatic polyoxides. N is the number of CH 2 -groups in the repeating unit. Calculations can be carried out over the whole temperature range OK to melting. For θ-temperatures and constant A o for the C v − to − C p conversion, oxygenconcentration dependent curves are given. Recommended experimental data bank heat capacities agree to ±5% or better.
Seasonal climatology of the nighttime tidal perturbation of temperature in the midlatitude mesopause region

We present a seasonal-average climatology of the nocturnal variation of temperature and sodium density in the mesopause region (80–110km) based on 300 nights of observation from 1990–1997 by the sodium resonance lidar in Fort Collins, Colorado (40.6°N, 105°W). Waves with downward phase progression were observed during all seasons, with properties (coherence over many nights, observed half-period, etc.) consistent with the upward-propagating semidiurnal tide. The semidiurnal tide was strong (10K at 90km) and stable from November to March with a 30 km vertical wavelength. In April and September, the vertical wavelengths were longer and the amplitude increased rapidly with height above 95km. From May–August, there is a change in wave structure and low amplitudes at 90 km, possibly due to the diurnal tide. The Thermosphere-lonosphere-Mesosphere-Electrodynamics General Circulation Model (TIME-GCM) predicts a dominant semidiurnal tide in good agreement with observations, except for a difference in the phase at equinox.
A change of landscape and a broadened scope

I've promised you that CISE would be broadening its scope during my term as editor in chief, and this issue marks the start of a new chapter in this effort sometimes, in seeking the new, we re-encounter the old and are surprised by what we've learned: I spent a significant portion of my career as a physics professor. This was sufficiently long ago that I can claim to have been present at the beginning - the entry of computing into the physics teaching enterprise. In fact, this was less than a generation from the time that computers were first used in physics, thus it wasn't entirely clear what the full scope and type of their applications would be. But it was fairly clear that they were surprisingly useful and their application was going to be fairly broad. What I don't think any of us expected was the variety of tasks to which computers would be put nor the depth of the changes they would effect upon the ways we think about the physical world.
Preparation of α-halo-F-2-ketones and F-2-ketones via fluorination of α,α-dihalo-F-2-ketones

Abstract Fluorination of α,α-dichloro- F -2-ketones with antimony pentafluoride provided excellent yields of α-chloro- F -2- ketones and F -2-ketones regioselectively. However, fluorination of α,α-dibromo- F -2-ketones with antimony pentafluoride gave a mixture of α-bromo- F -2-ketones and F -2-ketones.
Spatial and temporal variation in phytoplankton community structure in a southeastern U.S. reservoir determined by HPLC and light microscopy

Spatial and temporal variation in phytoplankton community structure within a large flood-control reservoir (Sardis Reservoir, MS, USA) was investigated in relation to variation in physicochemical properties, location within the reservoir, hydraulic residence time (HRT), nutrient concentrations, temperature, and light conditions over a 14-month period. During periods of short HRT, phytoplankton communities throughout the reservoir were homogeneous in biomass, composition, and production. With a gradual increase in HRT from spring to summer, spatially heterogeneous phytoplankton communities developed along the longitudinal axis of the reservoir. During this period of longer HRT, diatoms and chlorophytes were a larger proportion of total phytoplankton biomass at shallow and more turbid locations near the head of the reservoir, whereas cyanobacteria were a larger proportion of the community at deeper and less turbid locations closer to the outflow. Seasonal succession of the phytoplankton community was represented by high abundance of diatoms in spring, increasing biomass of cyanobacteria through summer, and a secondary bloom of diatoms in fall. Species of Cyclotella, Asterionella, Nitzschia, and Ankistrodesmus were among the first colonizers in the early growing season, closely followed by Aulacoseira, whereas species of Staurastrum and Tetraedron appeared later in the spring. Species of Synedra, Crucigenia, Selenastrum, Scenedesmus, and Merismopedia occurred throughout the sampling period. As the diatoms started to decrease during mid-spring, cryptophytes increased, prior to dominance of species of Pseudanabaena in summer. Reservoir management of HRT, in combination with spatial variation in reservoir morphology and seasonal variation in temperature and riverine nutrient inputs, creates seasonally variable yet distinct spatial patterns in phytoplankton community biomass, composition, and production.
Deposition of high fluorine content macromolecular thin layers under continuous-flow-system corona discharge conditions

High fluorine content macromolecular layers were deposited on polyethylene (PE) film surfaces under an originally designed, continuos-flow-system plasma reactor conditions. Survey and angle resolution, ESCA data and ATR-FTIR results indicate that the plasma-created films are thin and have a fairly uniform structure. The fluorinated layers have a 60% relative fluorine atomic concentration, and are mainly composed of CF2-CF, and C-CF3 groups. AFM images collected from virgin and plasma-exposed PE surfaces show a significantly rougher surface of the plasma-treated substrates. Applications can be envisaged for creating Teflon-like coatings on various polymeric film surfaces using a continuous plasma process.
Resolvins, docosatrienes, and neuroprotectins, novel omega-3-derived mediators, and their endogenous aspirin-triggered epimers

The molecular basis for the beneficial impact of essential omega-3 (n-3) FA remains of interest. Recently, we identified novel mediators generated from eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) that displayed potent bioactions identified first in resolving inflammatory exudates and in tissues enriched with DHA. The trivial names resolvin (resolution phase interaction products) and docosatrienes were introduced for the bioactive compounds from these novel series since they possess potent anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory actions. Compounds derived from EPA carrying potent biological actions (i.e., 1-10 nM range) are designated E series and denoted resolvins of the E series (resolvin E1 or RvE1), and those biosynthesized from the precursor DHA are denoted resolvins of the D series (resolvin D1 or RvD1). The number 1 designates the bioactive compounds in this family (#1-4). Bioactive members from DHA-containing conjugated triene structures or docosatrienes (DT) that possess immunoregulatory and neuroprotective actions were termed neuroprotectins. Aspirin treatment initiates a related epimeric series by triggering endogenous formation of the 17R-D series resolvins and docosatrienes. These epimers are denoted as aspirin-triggered (AT)-RvD and DT, and possess potent anti-inflammatory actions in vivo essentially equivalent to their 17S series pathway products. These include five distinct series: (i) 18R resolvins from EPA (i.e., RvE1); (ii) 17R series (AT) resolvins from DHA (RvD1 through RvD4); (iii) 17S series resolvins from DHA (RvD1 through RvD4), (iv) DT from DHA; and (v) their AT form 17R series DT. In this article, we provide an overview of the formation and actions of these newly uncovered pathways and products.
Computational study of convective–diffusive mixing in a microchannel mixer

Abstract Scalar mixing due to convection and diffusion in a microchannel mixer is studied using CFD. A method is developed to quantitatively measure the effect of false diffusion on scalar decay rate. This method computes an average false diffusivity from a given numerical solution and it is not limited to any particular numerical scheme. It is found that a range of molecular diffusivity exist in which average false diffusion is smaller than molecular diffusion and scalar decay rates can be computed accurately with CFD in the mixer. This range of molecular diffusivity covers most of the liquid solutions encountered in chemical and biochemical engineering. When effective diffusivity is used, this range can be further expanded. The predicted mixing structures agree well with experimental results in literature. The classical lamellar structures of the baker's transformation are strongly affected by diffusion. The striation doubling process is destroyed by diffusion broadening at very early stage in the mixer. The optimal mixing is achieved at low Re when the mixing mechanism in the mixer is the baker's transformation. At higher Re , secondary flow is generated and the mixing mechanism is the competition of the kinematics of the baker's transformation and the dynamics of the cross sectional flow. Results show that the secondary flow hinders mixing and the scalar decays at lower exponential rates than when the mixing is due to the baker's transformation alone.
Mechanisms of glucocorticoid inhibition of growth

Mechanisms whereby glucocorticoids might inhibit growth are reviewed from the perspective of glucocorticoid effects on cell metabolism and growth. Although glucocorticoids given to patients decrease levels of growth hormone and possible somatomedins, the effect of glucocorticoids on growth is not reversed when growth hormone is given. Glucocorticoids inhibit cell growth in culture. Cell inhibition correlates with binding of steroids to the glucocorticoid receptors. Some tissues are very sensitive; others are insensitive. In cell culture, changes in sensitivity can be associated with changes in binding, but this is not always the case in tissues of the animal. The mechanisms of inhibition of cell growth are not known. It could be due to steroid-induced synthesis of inhibitory proteins or to blocking by receptor-steroid complexes of the synthesis of RNA. Steroids may affect uptake of substrates, e.g., glucose or amino acids, which in turn affects growth. The inhibitory actions of glucocorticoids on individual tissues may explain why these steroids inhibit growth in the animal. It is not known, however, how the steroid inhibits linear growth in mass or which cell types are most important targets for such effects.
Airway remodeling and persistent airway obstruction in asthma.

Abstract There is growing recognition that some patients with long-standing asthma may possess a component of irreversible airflow obstruction despite optimal therapy. This persistent airflow obstruction is thought to be the result of structural changes in the airways that occur as a result of airway remodeling. The structural changes that lead to chronic obstruction are not known, nor are the intricacies of the remodeling process. Hence airway remodeling and its role in the evolution of irreversible airflow obstruction remain conceptual. Much work has been carried out to better define the histopathologic characteristics of asthma, including the characteristic features of airway inflammation. However, attempts to delineate the physiologic consequences of specific histologic findings are at an early stage of development. The thesis that airway remodeling is driven by chronic inflammatory processes has important implications for the way we make treatment decisions, especially in the patient with mild asthma. Abounding interest in airway remodeling has led to a growing literature on the subject, a literature that is largely speculative and perhaps too tautologic in the sense that remodeling is frequently defined by any observed histologic change, irrespective of its physiologic consequences. Careful attempts to link histologic observations with clinical, demographic, and physiologic findings will be necessary to unravel the causes of remodeling and identify who is at risk for development of irreversible airway obstruction. (J Allergy Clin Immunol 1999;104:509-16.)
A tale of two technologies: Prehistoric diffusion of pottery innovations among hunter-gatherers

We examine the diffusion of a successful and an unsuccessful innovation among hunter-gatherers in the western Great Basin, using a diffusion of innovation model. Modern and historical studies on the diffusion of innovations suggest that diffusion processes follow S-shaped curves, with small numbers of early adopters, followed by more rapid uptick in the rate of diffusion as the majority adopt a technology, concluding again with small numbers of late-adopting laggards. Distributions of luminescence dates on surface-collected pottery sherds show that the technology had a long period of experimentation. Beginning about AD 1000, direct-rimmed pots were introduced in Southern Owens Valley and were used in small numbers over hundreds of years. Likewise, around AD 1350 pots with recurved rims were introduced in Death Valley and were also used in small numbers. Around AD 1550 the direct-rimmed technology diffused to the east, to China Lake and Death Valley, where it was rapidly adopted. By contrast, recurved-rim technologies were abandoned, a failed innovation. Our data suggest that prehistoric pottery diffusions follow a similar S-shaped curve, but that diffusion among hunter-gatherers happens at a much slower rate, over centuries instead of decades.
New Photosensitizers Based upon [Fe(L)2(CN)2] and [Fe(L)3] (L = Substituted 2,2‘-Bipyridine): Yields for the Photosensitization of TiO2 and Effects on the Band Selectivity

Our recent report of the sensitization of TiO2 by [Fe(4,4‘-dicarboxylic acid-2,2‘-bipyridine)2(CN)2] introduced iron(II) bipyridyl complexes as fundamentally interesting and practical alternatives to their ruthenium analogues in the dye-sensitized solar cell (Ferrere and Gregg, J. Am. Chem. Soc. 1998, 120, 843). Here we detail how structural changes to the bipyridyl ligand L in [Fe(L)2(CN)2] affect photosensitization yields. We also explore the effect of solvent and solvent additives on the unique absorbance band selectivity of [Fe(4,4‘-dicarboxylic acid-2,2‘-bipyridine)2(CN)2] on TiO2. We demonstrate that solvent conditions can affect the relative photocurrent contributions from the two absorption bands of the complex, and suggest that it is related to changes in driving force for electron injection from the lower energy MLCT band.
A new G–M counter dead time model

A hybrid G-M counter dead time model was derived by combining the idealized paralyzable and non-paralyzable models. The new model involves two parameters, which are the paralyzable and non-paralyzable dead times. The dead times used in the model are very closely related to the physical dead time of the G-M tube and its resolving time. To check the validity of the model, the decaying source method with 56Mn was used. The corrected counting rates by the new G-M dead time model were compared with the observed counting rates obtained from the measurement and gave very good agreement within 5% up to 7 x 10(4) counts/s for a G-M tube with a dead time of about 300 micros.
An evaluation of trends in obstetrics and gynecology clerkships in the United States and Canada

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to provide an updated profile of clerkship directors and third-year clerkships for Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology at US and Canadian medical schools. Study design All 142 accredited medical schools in the US and Canada were contacted to identify the individual(s) responsible for third-year medical education in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Additional clerkship sites (n = 10) were identified using the Association of Professors in Gynecology and Obstetrics' (APGO) list of current members self-identified as clerkship directors. Written surveys were mailed to the individuals identified above. The survey included questions about demographic and academic profiles, 11 attitude statements, as well as potential interest in a national organization of clerkship directors under APGO and interest in the creation of web-based resources specifically for clerkship directors. Results One hundred twenty-three (81%) responses were received. Demographic and academic characteristics of clerkship directors were similar to those published 13 (1) and 6 (2) years ago, except that the proportion of female clerkship directors has steadily increased (20% in 1989 [1], 25% in 1994 [2], and 44% in 2000, P Conclusion The profiles of obstetrics and gynecology clerkships and clerkship directors in the US and Canada have remained relatively stable over the last 13 years. However, the proportion of female clerkship directors continues to increase. Interest in more organized activities specifically for clerkship directors and web-based resources is high.
Predicting C5 palsy via the use of preoperative anatomic measurements

Abstract Background context C5 nerve root palsy (C5P) is a relatively rare complication after anterior and posterior cervical decompression surgery that leads to a variety of debilitating symptoms. The precise etiology remains obscure, and a clear understanding of preoperative risk factors for C5P development does not exist. Purpose To determine whether postoperative C5P can be predicted from preoperative anteroposterior diameter (APD), foraminal diameter (FD), and/or cord-lamina angle (CLA). Study design Retrospective review. Patient sample Consecutive patients who underwent either anterior or posterior decompression surgery at C4–C5 for cervical spondylotic myelopathy. Outcome measures Development of C5P. Methods Blinded reviewers retrospectively assessed magnetic resonance images for each included patient's C4–C5 interspace, including the midline APD, the left and right FDs, and the left and right CLA. Multivariable logistic regression was used to model the probability of palsy on the basis of one or more predictors. A jackknife validation was performed to internally validate the model and assess its generalizability. Results A total of 98 patients fit the inclusion criteria; 12% had developed symptoms of C5 palsy postoperatively. Using the three variables in a predictor-model, we found that the odds ratio of having palsy for APD, FD, and CLA was 0.3, 0.02, and 1.4, respectively. For every 1-mm increase in APD and FD, the odds of developing palsy decrease 69% (p Conclusions This study is the first to use the combination of APD, FD, and CLA to predict development of postoperative C5 palsy after decompression surgery for patients with spondylotic myelopathy. This prediction formula may allow for better patient selection and to prepare patients that have an increased probability of developing this complication.
An Inverse Demand System for U.S. Composite Foods: Reply

elasticity matrix. The approach he uses for verification, however, is conceptually and empirically inadequate. First, Hicks has systematically treated the inverse demand and defined "q-complements" and "q-substitutes" of the Antonelli matrix in contrast to the "pcomplements" and "p-substitutes" of the well-known Slutsky matrix in ordinary demand. As shown in Deaton and Muellbauer (p. 57), the Antonelli matrix and Slutsky matrix are closely linked; they are generalized inverses of each other. Conceptually, if one intends to verify the dual nature of a demand system, one should focus on the generalized inverse relationships between the Antonelli and Slutsky matrices rather than using Young's intuitive approach by comparing the estimated price flexibilities with the derived demand elasticities. Moreover, Young's demand elasticity matrix is derived from a constructed uncompensated price flexibility matrix that departs from the functional form specified in Huang's inverse demand system. I know of no theoretical basis to verify the inverse demand system by using Young's derived demand elasticity matrix that is obviously outside the framework of the initial model specification for the inverse demand system. Second, in general, the empirical demand elasticity and price flexibility matrices obtained from certain well-known estimation procedures are not the reciprocal of one another in a statistical sense because the two sets of regression lines differ from one another. In an ordinary demand system, the sum of residuals is minimized along the quantity axis; whereas, the sum of residuals is minimized along the price axis in an inverse demand system. The problem was discussed in Houck, who summarized some earlier studies and concluded: (a) the reciprocal of the direct price flexibility is not in general the same as the direct price elasticity, and (b) the reciprocal of the price flexibility is absolutely less than the true elasticity if there are discernible cross effects with other commodities. Thus, Young's demand elasticity matrix, which is computed as the reciprocal of a derived uncompens ted price flexibility matrix, has limited practical use because the elasticity matrix may not represent the "true" demand structure as reflected from the sample observations. Perhaps a statement from Waugh (pp. 29-30) best addresses this point: "I prefer to use the p ice flexibilities themselves rather than their reciprocals. If, for any reason, the elasticity of demand is wanted, I would prefer to use the other regression equations, using quantities as the dependent variables."
Role of the C terminus Gag protein in human immunodeficiency virus type 1 virion assembly and maturation

Lentiviral Gag polyproteins have a proline-rich protein, p6, at their C terminus. There are conflicting reports about the function of p6 in virus release. In the present work, mutants that affect p6 of human immuno-deficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) Gag polyprotein were constructed and analysed. None of the mutants prevented virus release completely; however, detachment of budding particles was less efficient as evidenced by electron microscopy. Virions of the p6 truncation mutant B2TAA had a significantly reduced number of Pol proteins (p66, p51 and p34) and an increased amount of incompletely processed Gag proteins compared with the parental virus. A mutation that altered the cleavage site between p6 and p1 did not significantly affect virus assembly, virus release or protein processing with the exception of cleavage between p6 and p1. However, virions of this mutant (B2P6C) exhibited irregularshaped core structures that were distinct from the cone-shaped core structure seen in the parental virion. B2P6C mutant virus was non-infectious in CD4+ T cells. These results suggest that mutations in p6 affect efficient detachment of budding particles from the cell surface. Proper cleavage between p6 and p1 may be critical for the formation of the distinctive cone-shaped core structure of HIV-1 virions.
Trauma through the lens of service coordinators: exploring their awareness of adverse life events among adults with intellectual disabilities

Purpose – With an expansion of trauma knowledge in the field of intellectual disabilities (ID) there is a responsibility among service providers to be trauma-informed. Among those providers are service coordinators (SCs) who are involved in the lives of individuals through the assessment of needs and linkage with necessary supports. The purpose of this paper is to explore SCs’ understanding of individuals’ experiences of adverse life events, trauma, and related services. Design/methodology/approach – Semi-structured interviews were conducted among 15 SCs, encompassing the experiences of 29 individuals with mild ID. Data were analyzed using a grounded theory approach. Findings – From SCs’ perspective, individuals’ experiences were comprised of three major categories – experiencing adversity, responding to adversity and adapting to adversity – influenced by precipitating and perpetuating conditions. Despite a lack of familiarity with the term “trauma,” in general, SCs possessed a rich understanding of indiv...
Adaptation and attentional selection.

Attention improves perception, presumably by influencing neural responses. In this issue, an fMRI study shows that paying attention to an object might enhance perception by increasing the selectivity of neuronal subpopulations in higher visual areas.
Management of posttraumatic soft tissue infections.

Between 10 and 12 million traumatic wounds are treated annually in emergency departments in the United States [1,2]. More than 50% of these lacerations are caused by blunt trauma. The others are caused by sharp objects, such as metal, glass, and wood. Only a small percentage of these wounds is caused by mammalian and nonmammalian bites [3,4]. Most of these lacerations occur on the face, scalp, and arms, mostly in young men [2]. Because of these locations, an important goal of management of these wounds is to avoid infection, which can lead to cosmetically and functionally unacceptable scars [5]. The current management of traumatic soft tissue injuries incorporates many of the surgical principles developed over the past century. These principles include a thorough understanding of the pathophysiology of wounding, the risk factors for infection, the basic mechanisms by which posttraumatic sepsis develops, and the appropriate methods for treatment of these injuries and the prevention of complications. This article reviews the defense mechanisms involved in soft tissue wound healing, describes the risk factors for posttraumatic wound infections, and discusses the prevention and treatment of such infections.
Relative association of fever and injury with hypermetabolism in critically ill patients

The purpose of this study was to determine the association of injury type (trauma, surgery, medical disease), systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and fever with the degree of hypermetabolism in critically ill patients. Medical records of 204 critically ill, mechanically ventilated injured, surgical and medical patients were reviewed for indirect calorimetry and associated data. Analysis of variance and covariance was used to test the effects of injury, fever and SIRS on the degree of hypermetabolism. All injury types were found to be hypermetabolic. Analysis of variance of hypermetabolism with injury type and presence of fever as main effects revealed a significant increase in hypermetabolic response from fever, of similar magnitude across all injury types. Subjects with SIRS were significantly more hypermetabolic than subjects without SIRS. However, anlaysis of variance indicated no effect for SIRS but a significant effect for fever in increasing the hypermetabolic response. It is concluded that fever portends a magnification of the hypermetabolic response, being similar across injury types. SIRS does not identify hypermetabolic patients independent of fever. The host response to injury, not the injury itself, determines metabolic rate in critically ill patients. Neither SIRS nor injury type should be used to classify hypermetabolic states without stratifying for presence of fever.
A Lost Period of Applied Anthropology

RESEARCH into the history of applied anthropology in the British Empire shows that references to the practical values of anthropology go back to the very beginnings of anthropology and ethnology as recognized fields of study. That the early British anthropological societies were not strictly academic is not so surprising if we realize that they had their origins in the active humanitarian movements of the time, especially the anti-slavery activities.
Concordance of four methods of disability assessment using performance in the home as the criterion method.

Objective To determine the concordance of 4 methods of disability assessment with the criterion method. Performance testing in the home was selected as the criterion. Methods The task performance of 57 community-dwelling older women (≥70 years) with knee osteoarthritis was examined through self report, proxy report, clinical judgment based on impairment measures, performance testing in an occupational therapy clinic, and performance testing in participants' homes. The 26 tasks represented 4 domains of daily living activities: 5 functional mobility, 3 personal care, 14 cognitively oriented instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), and 4 physically oriented IADL. Results In general, self reports and proxy reports had the highest concordance with in-home performance test results. Nonetheless, even for these methods, depending on task domain, the rate of discordance ranged from 31% to 54%, being least in personal care and greatest in the physically oriented IADL. Conclusion Disability estimates based on self reports, proxy reports, clinical judgments, and hospital performance-based assessments are not interchangeable with in-home task performance.