cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
TGF-β1 upregulates CX3CR1 expression and inhibits fractalkine-stimulated signaling in rat microglia

Abstract Following peripheral nerve transection, CX3CR1 and TGF-β1 are increased in a time-dependent manner within the injured facial motor nucleus. To explore the relationship between TGF-β1 and CX3CR1 in the CNS, the effects of TGF-β1 on CX3CR1 mRNA, protein and fractalkine-dependent stimulation of signal transduction cascades in primary cultures of rat microglia were examined. TGF-β1 increased steady state levels of CX3CR1 mRNA, 125I-fractalkine binding sites and blunted fractalkine-stimulated ERK1/2 phosphorylation. The half-life of CX3CR1 mRNA was unaltered by TGF-β1 and two potential Smad binding elements (SBEs) were identified in the rat CX3CR1 promoter. TGF-β1 may shift fractalkine-dependent signaling away from activation of ERK1/2 towards other pathways and/or may provide a mechanism for microglia to more strongly adhere to neurons.
Effect of bulk resistivity, annealing temperature and illumination on oxygen sorption on CdSe surfaces☆

Abstract The bulk resistivity, annealing temperature and photo-illumination were found to have large effects on the oxygen sorption of the Cd (0001) surfaces of CdSe. For the higher resistivity surfaces, annealing at temperatures below ~ 400°C, no oxygen adsorption was detected. However, if the surfaces were annealed at temperatures above ~ 500°C, a significant amount of oxygen adsorption was subsequently detected at room temperature in darkness. This adsorbed oxygen could be partially desorbed by visible light and almost completely desorbed by UV light. On the other hand, surfaces of very low resistivities were so much more reactive to oxygen that appreciable oxygen adsorption in darkness was detected. This oxygen adsorption was always enhanced by illumination with UV or visible light. Annealing at ~ 550 °C had no significant effect on this photo-adsorptive behaviour. However, annealing at temperatures ~ 500–550°C decreased the diffraction intensity. Based on mass spectrometer analysis, the decrease in diffraction intensity was interpreted as due to diffusion of excess Cd to the surface. The oxygen sorption behaviours of all the surfaces investigated were adequately explained by the existing theories based on charge transfer between the surfaces and the adsorbed oxygen.
A Pilot Study of an Intervention Designed to Promote Walking, Balance, and Self-Efficacy in Older Adults with Fear of Falling

There is a need to provide interventions that are of interest to older adults who are not inclined to participate in conventional exercise programs and that can improve balance and fear of falling. One purpose of this pilot study was to assess feasibility and acceptability of an eight-week (3x/wk, 90-minute sessions) multifaceted, small group, experiential, and educational walking program (B-Active). Another purpose of this exploratory study was to evaluate effects of B-Active on six ambulatory older adults, ages 77–89 (M = 84), who had a fear of falling and were not currently engaged in a high level of physical activity. Findings indicated the feasibility and acceptability of the B-Active program. Preliminary data suggest the intervention resulted in positive outcomes for older adults' concerning their walking self-efficacy and actual walking (daily steps taken and improved gait). In addition, there was evidence suggesting that balance and balance self-efficacy were enhanced.
The Intermediate Filament Protein, Vimentin, in the Lens Is a Target for Cross-linking by Transglutaminase *

Mere addition of Ca2+ to a lens cortical homogenate (bovine) generates a series of products composed of a variety of high molecular weight vimentin species. The Ca2+-induced cross-linking of this cytoskeletal element seems to be mediated by the intrinsic transglutaminase of lens, because the reaction could be blocked at the monomeric state of vimentin by the inclusion of small synthetic substrates of the enzyme dansylcadaverine or dansyl-e-aminocaproyl-Gln-Gln-Ile-Val. These compounds are known to compete against the Gln or Lys functionalities of proteins that would participate in forming the N e(γ-glutamyl)lysine protein-to-protein cross-links. The cytosolic transglutaminase-catalyzed reactions could be reproduced with purified bovine lens vimentin and also with recombinant human vimentin preparations. Employing the latter system, we have titrated the transglutaminase-reactive sites of vimentin and, by sequencing the dansyl-tracer-labeled segments of the protein, we have shown that residues Gln453 and Gln460 served as acceptor functionalities and Lys97, Lys104, Lys294, and Lys439 as electron donor functionalities in vimentin. The transglutaminase-dependent reaction of this intermediate filament protein might influence the shape and plasticity of the fiber cells, and the enzyme-catalyzed cross-linking of vimentin, in conjunction with other lens constituents, may contribute to the process of cataract formation.
Early accelerated approval for highly targeted cancer drugs.

Since we can define subgroups of patients who have high rates of response and disease control in phase 1 trials of targeted cancer drugs, the traditional long pathway to FDA approval of these drugs is increasingly under fire for medical and ethical reasons.
Numbers of receptor sites from Scatchard graphs: facts and fantasies

Data for ligand and receptor binding presented in the format of a Scatchard graph are compared with the same data shown as bound ligand plotted against the logarithm of free ligand. From this comparison it is apparent that extrapolations in the Scatchard graph to yield total number of receptor sites are generally not correct.
Interpretation of pediatric x-ray films by emergency department pediatricians

This study compared the interpretation of pediatric roentgenograms by emergency department pediatricians and radiologists. Data were available from 532 of 600 children who had 564 radiographic studies during a sixweek period: 217 examinations of the chest, 200 of the extremities, 74 of the skull, 35 of the abdomen, and 38 of miscellaneous structures. The emergency department pediatricians and the radiologists were in agreement in 91.1% of the cases. Among the 50 of 564 (8.9%) discordant studies, only seven (1.2%) required changes in therapy. The results attest to the accuracy of emergency department pediatricians in interpreting the usual types of films ordered in their department. However, this group specifically erred in the identification of subtle fractures and the detection of abnormalities incidental to the primary purpose for which the film was obtained. Future educational programs should address these areas of deficiency.
Reflections on Clinical Significance: What Do Our Best Treatments Accomplish and How Can We Best Find Out?

Recent developments in clinical psychology have involved important advances in the treatments available for childhood disorders. Sheldrick et al. evaluated selected treatments for childhood behavior problems, skillfully demonstrating the application of two statistical procedures for estimating clinical significance. Statistics to estimate clinical effects using traditional dependent measures is an certainly important step toward estimating the gains that such treatments can accomplish, and such estimation of clinical effects should arguably become a routine part of the treatment outcome literature. However, the consideration of a variety of additional indices as a complement to the statistical estimation of clinical significance may ultimately be necessary to determine the true utility of treatments. Many such indices were originally outlined by the APA Task Force on Psychological Intervention Guidelines and are reviewed here in the context of evaluating best treatments.
Buckling of fuel rods under inertia loading

AbstractThe buckling analysis of fuel rods during an end drop impact of a spent fuel transportation cask has traditionally been performed to demonstrate the structural integrity of the fuel rod cladding or the integrity of the fuel geometry in criticality evaluations for a cask drop event. The actual calculation of the fuel rod buckling load, however, has been the subject of some controversy, with estimates of the critical buckling load differing by as much as a factor of 5. Typically, in the buckling analysis of a fuel rod, assumptions are made regarding the percentage of fuel mass that is bonded to or that participates with the cladding during the buckling process, with estimates ranging from 0 to 100%. The greater the percentage of fuel mass that is assumed to be bonded to the cladding, the higher the inertia loads on the cladding, and, therefore, the lower the 'g' value at which buckling occurs. However, these solutions do not consider displacement compatibility between the fuel and the cladding durin...
Staphylococcus aureus infections in pediatric patients with diabetes mellitus

Summary Objectives To describe Staphylococcus aureus infections in children with diabetes mellitus (DM). Methods Children with DM (cases) and S. aureus infections (2/02-6/10) were identified from a surveillance database. Patient charts were reviewed, and S. aureus isolates were characterized by molecular methods. Cases were compared to age-matched controls without DM but with CA- S. aureus skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI) using conditional logistic regression. Results Forty-seven cases were identified; 41 were matched with 123 controls. Four cases had osteomyelitis and 43 had SSTI. Mean age was 14.2 years and 63% of cases had hemoglobin (Hb) A1c levels above 10%. Cases and controls differed by gender (85% vs. 45% female, P P = 0.04), methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) infection (49% vs. 68%, P = 0.04), and recurrent infections (22% vs. 4%, P = 0.001). Among cases, 88% of recurrences were caused by MRSA. Conclusions The majority of cases had poor glycemic control, more recurrences, fewer primary MRSA infections and were more likely to be female compared to a control group. Improved glycemic control may reduce the risk for infection, and decrease hospitalizations due to S. aureus infections.
Mechanized pivot shift test achieves greater accuracy than manual pivot shift test

The objective of this study was to design a navigated mechanized pivot shift test setup and evaluate its repeatability in the ACL-deficient knee. It was hypothesized that translations and rotations measured with the mechanized pivot shift would be more repeatable when compared to those obtained with a manual pivot shift. Twelve fresh frozen cadaveric hip-to-toe whole lower extremities were used for this study. A manual pivot shift test was performed in the intact knee and in the ACL-deficient knee and was repeated three times. A navigation system simultaneously recorded tibial translation and rotation. The mechanized pivot shift test consists of a modified continuous passive motion (CPM) machine and a custom-made foot holder to allow for the application of internal rotation moments at the knee. Valgus moments were achieved by a 45° tilt of the CPM machine with respect to the supine position and a Velcro strap secured across the proximal tibia. The mechanized pivot shift was repeated three times. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to compare manual and mechanized pivot shift testing. An intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to determine variability within each knee at each testing condition. In the ACL-deficient knee, translation with manual pivot shift testing (11.7 ± 2.6 mm) was significantly higher than with mechanized pivot shift testing (7.4 ± 2.5 mm; p < 0.05). Rotation with the manual pivot shift testing (18.6 ± 5.4°) was also significantly higher than with mechanized pivot shift testing (11.0 ± 2.3°; p < 0.05). The intra-class ICC for translations was 0.76 for manual pivot shift and 0.92 for the mechanized pivot shift test. The intra-class ICC for rotations was 0.89 for manual pivot shift and 0.82 for the mechanized pivot shift test. This study introduced a modified CPM for mechanized pivot shift testing. Although recorded translations and rotations with the mechanized pivot shift test were lower than with manual testing, the clinical advantage of mechanized pivot shift testing is a more repeatable measurement of ATT when compared to manual pivot shift testing. This setup may increase consistency of clinical grading of the pivot shift test.
Effects of high and low pH on Ca2+i and on cell injury evoked by anoxia in perfused rat hepatocytes

The effect of high and low pH on anoxic cell injury was studied in freshly isolated rat hepatocytes cast in agarose gel threads and perfused with Krebs-Henseleit bicarbonate buffer (KHB) saturated with 95% O2 and 5% CO2. Cytosolic free calcium (Ca2+i) was measured with aequorin, intracellular pH (pHi) with BCECF, and lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) by the increase in NADH absorbance during lactate oxidation to pyruvate. A 2 h period of anoxia was induced by perfusing the cells with KHB saturated with 95% N2 and 5% CO2. The extracellular pH (pHo) was maintained at 7.4, 6.8 or 8.0 by varying the bicarbonate concentration. The substrate was either 5 mM glucose, 15 mM glucose or 15 mM fructose. In some experiments, anoxia was performed in Ca2+-free media by perfusing the cells with KHB without Ca2+ but with 0.1 mM EGTA. Reducing pHo to 6.8 during anoxia did not reduce the increase in Ca2+i, but but completely abolished LDH release. Under these conditions, pHi decreased to 6.56 ± 0.3 when glucose was the substrate and to 6.18 ± 0.25 with 15 mM fructose. Apparently, protection against anoxic injury caused by a low pHo is associated with a low pHi but not with a reduced elevation in Ca2+i. Increasing pHo to 8.0 during anoxia increased pHi above 8.0 ± 0.01 and doubled LDH release without significantly altering the rise in Ca2+i. When 15 mM fructose was present with a pHo of 8.0, pHi was still 8.0, but there was practically no rise in Ca2+i, and LDH release was again completely abolished. On the other hand, a Ca2+-free perfusate with a pHo of 8.0 kept the rise in Ca2+i below 400 nM but did not abolish the massive release of LDH caused by high pH. Since cell injury is caused by the activation of Ca2+-sensitive hydrolytic enzymes such as phospholipase A2, these experiments suggest that a low pH ( 8.0) can activate hydrolytic enzymes and cause injury even in the absence of an elevated Ca2+i. The precise mechanism by which fructose protects hepatocytes against cell injury at pHi 8.0 is unclear.
The identification of a brainstem site controlling spinal sexual reflexes in male rats

It has long been assumed that the brainstem exerts a tonic descending inhibitory influence on spinal sexual reflexes, but the source of this inhibition is unknown. Sexual responses (penile erection and ejaculatory movements) were elicited in anesthetized male rats using urethral stimuli. Using brainstem transections and electrolytic and neurotoxic lesions, we have identified a group of neurons in the paragigantocellular reticular nucleus in the ventral medulla which mediates this descending inhibition. Correlative neuroanatomical studies indicate that the inhibition is mediated via a direct projection to pelvic efferent neurons and interneurons. These results promise new approaches to the treatment of human sexual disorders.
The therapeutic value of yoga in neurological disorders

Background: The ancient mind and body healing methods of yoga recently sparked fervor in the scientific community as an alternative and complementary means of therapy. Since the World Health Organization officially began promoting yoga in developing countries in 1978, yoga has been cited for its therapeutic potential and has been widely recognized in Western culture. However, as an increasing number of people practice yoga for remedial purposes, researchers raise two important questions: 1) Is yoga a valid complementary management and rehabilitation treatment modality? 2) What conditions show promise of treatment with this intervention?. Objective: This review article uses comprehensive scientific, evidence-based studies to analyze the efficacy of various basic and applied aspects of yoga in disease prevention and health promotion. It specifically intends to expose the effects of yoga in neurological disorders, particularly epilepsy, stroke, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, peripheral nervous system disease, and fibromyalgia. Materials and Methods: Information was gathered from various resources including PubMed, Ovid, MD-Consult, USC, and U.C.L.A. libraries. Studies were selected and reviewed on the basis of sample size, control, randomization, double-blinding, and statistical analysis of results. Results: The pratice of yoga and meditation demonstrates statistically encouraging physiological and psychological improvements in the aforementioned neurological disorders. However, there were certain flaws and inadequacies in the study designs employed to evaluate the same. A critical analysis of these studies is presented. Conclusions: With the aim to focus attention on this widespread yet largely unexamined treatment modality, this paper seeks to provide direction and support for further research necessary to validate yoga as an integrative, alternative, and complementary therapy.
Dynamic adhesion and separation of cells in vitro II. Interactions of cells with hydrophilic and hydrophobic surfaces

Experiments made on the passage of cells through untreated and siliconized glass beads, and on the adhesion and spread of cultured cells on glass and Teflon surfaces show that, in the absence of serum and in its presence in low concentrations, cell adhesion and spread is sensitive to substratum wettability. On the other hand, in the presence of 100% serum, no differences in adhesive parameters are detectable. It is concluded that arguments correlating cell adhesion to surface wettability, and, by inference, surface free energy, are unsubstantiated in 100% serum, which may well approximate to the in vivo situation. The results also show no correlation between parameters of cell adhesion and cell separation, and thereby support the hypothesis that these are different processes.
Investigation of ethics in engineering design

Unlike natural disasters, artificial engineering disasters are avoidable. However, accidents do happen, and the bulk of the post-situational analyses of these disasters comprise ethical reviews and appraisals. Consequently, these reviews usually focus on the outcomes of these accidents: how they could have been averted by appropriate actions on the part of the engineers involved, rather than the actions and inactions during the design process, which ultimately led to the accident. In their work, Van de Poel and Verbeek (2006) examined how engineering ethics and science/technology studies (STS) complement one another vis-a-vis the various ethical issues that arise and also engineers' responsibilities for technological development. In this paper, the authors investigate whether ethical considerations by design engineers depend on the nature of the engineering design process involved and the external and internal dynamics of such process. It also examines how engineers' responsibilities affect ethical considerations.
Choanal atresia in a patient with the deletion (9p) syndrome

The authors report on a child with choanal atresia and deletion 9p. A review of the literature documented one previous instance of choanal atresia in a patient with del(9p). Choanal atresia may be part of the spectrum of malformations in the deletion (9p) syndrome and its presence should prompt a search for this particular deletion as part of the differential diagnosis. 9 refs., 3 figs.
A Fluidic Loading Mechanism in a Polarization Reconfigurable Antenna With a Comparison to Solid State Approaches

This work proposes a polarization-reconfigurable antenna composed of two independent, co-located, and orthogonal (“crossed”) narrow microstrip patch antennas with a novel pressure-driven fluidic loading network. Repeating and alternating high-low dielectric constant fluids in the network excite the two patches independently through capacitive coupling. A second iteration of this design with RF PIN diodes allows for a comparison between the fluidic reconfiguration mechanism and current state-of-the-art approaches. Circuit models for the antenna with each reconfiguration mechanism are developed to better understand the impacts on antenna performance. Furthermore, these models show good agreement with full-wave simulations and measured results taken from the two fabricated prototype antennas. Pattern data shows good linear polarization switching with both designs. The two mechanisms are compared based on the impact to electrical size, radiation patterns, efficiency, and switching speed.
Instantons in unusual settings

Abstract Instantons may still be an important feature of a quantum system even if they are not exact solutions of the classical equations. This is illustrated in a simple quantum mechanics problem and in non-abelian gauge theories coupled to scalars. In this latter case, it is shown that under certain circumstances, instantons may cause the scalars to be in a symmetric phase even if their perturbative mass is negative or in a broken symmetric phase even if the mass is positive. We also discuss the application of our methodology to the case of QCD merons in a background instanton gas.
The Echocardiogram of the Porcine Aortic Bioprosthesis in the Aortic Position

The porcine aortic xenograft bioprosthesis was studied by ultrasound in vitro during simulated aortic placement with pulsatile flow. A smooth continuous surrounding structure allowed thorough echographic examination, whereas a highly sound-reflective (pleated) surrounding structure prohibited echographic examination. The valve leaflet movement was similar to that in the normal human aortic valve. The supporting bioprosthetic stent appeared as two thick parallel lines on either side of the leaflets. Inability to record the xenograft leaflets and their movements in all patients was attributed to an adverse plane of the aortic annulus or to surgical insertion of the bioprosthesis with a commissural support between the anterior aortic wall and the leaflets. To improve the opportunity for echocardiographic examination, which is the best noninvasive method for following up the effectiveness of bioprostheses, we recommend surgical insertion of the bioprosthesis with the largest (right coronary) cusp overlying the interventricular septum.
Penile revascularization remains a viable option in the era of oral pharmacotherapy: Con

Penile revascularization (PR) to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) became popular in an era when there were few alternative therapies available. Over the years, new treatment modalities became available. Intracavernous injection of vasoactive medications began the era of nonsurgical treatment. Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors permitted the convenience of true oral therapy that had a high success rate across a broad range of etiologies. Advances in penile prosthesis implantation allowed higher success rates with much less operative time and lower complication rates in those few patients who could not be helped by one of the nonsurgical modalities. PR remains a difficult operation. It requires invasive preoperative testing, specialized microsurgical skills, and four to six times more anesthesia than the prosthesis implantation. Furthermore, it has a significant complication rate and questionable long-term results. For these reasons, it appears that PR is no longer a viable treatment option for ED.
The Measurement of Sexual-Esteem: Investigation of Snell and Papini′s (1989) Sexuality Scale

Abstract The Sexuality Scale (SS) was published as a measure of the constructs sexual-esteem, sexual-depression, and sexual-preoccupation. These constructs may prove to be important and useful ones in the study of sexual behaviors, cognitions, and attitudes. However, relatively little work has been done with the SS and further exploration of the scale was the objective of the present study. Data were collected from 108 male and 127 female undergraduates. Confirmatory factor analysis using LISREL 7 demonstrated that the intended factoral model of the SS provided an inadequate fit with the data. A reliable short form of the SS was proposed that provides a better fit between a three-factor model and the data. Men scored higher than did women on the sexual-esteem and sexual-preoccupation scales of both the original SS and the newly created short form. Both the SS and the short form were only moderately correlated with measures of global self-esteem and clinical depression. Implications for future research on the measurement of sexual-esteem are discussed.
An optimized quadrature scheme for matrix elements over the eigenfunctions of general anharmonic potentials

Abstract We propose a new method for choosing weights and quadrature nodes for the numerical integration of matrix elements over vibrational eigenfunctios. Our method is tested against existing quadrature schemes for two systems (I2 and HF) and is found to be computationally superior.
LET'S CHOOSE EVERYTHING: A RESPONSE TO “THE THEORY PROBLEM”

This paper is a response to Riffel's “The Theory Problem in Educational Administration” published in the October 1978 issue of the Journal. The article seeks to establish that perhaps we really do not have to make “illumined choices” as Riffel insists, because neither the phenomenological style of inquiry nor theory generation nor hermeneutic and critical science exists well without the others. To pose their contradiction stylistically should not be construed as an imperative to choose among them, but rather to recognize and strengthen their dialectic.
The role of thought suppression in posttraumatic stress disorder

Thirty motor vehicle accident (MVA) survivors with PTSD and 25 without PTSD completed a trauma-related thought-suppression task. Both groups successfully suppressed trauma-related thoughts, followed by a rebound effect for the PTSD group, and no rebound effect for the no-PTSD group, in a replication of previous work (Shipherd & Beck, 1999). Additionally, a personally relevant, neutral thought-suppression task was included to examine the generalizability of thought suppression in PTSD participants. The PTSD group was able to suppress neutral thoughts without a rebound effect, suggesting that increases in suppressed thoughts are specific to trauma-relevant cognitions in individuals with PTSD. The potential role of thought suppression as a maintaining factor for reexperiencing symptoms of PTSD is discussed.
Evidence that FGF receptor signaling is necessary for endoderm-regulated development of precardiac mesoderm

Endoderm cells in the heart forming region (HFR endoderm) of stage 6 chicken embryos are required to support the proliferation and terminal differentiation of precardiac mesoderm cells in vitro. The endoderm's effect can be substituted by growth factors, including members of the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family. However, direct implication of FGFs in this process requires evidence that inhibition of FGF signaling interferes with proliferation and/or terminal differentiation. This report examines the consequences of treating endoderm/precardiac mesoderm co-explants with agents that inactivate FGF receptors. Using sodium chlorate, which prevents FGF ligand-receptor interaction, it was observed that the percentage of S-phase precardiac mesoderm cells was markedly reduced, suggesting that cell proliferation was inhibited. To more specifically affect FGF signaling, the explants were treated with an antibody that recognizes an extracellular domain of FGF receptor-1 (FGFR-1). This treatment similarly inhibited cell proliferation. Although both agents modestly delayed cardiac myocyte differentiation as indicated by the contractile function, expression of alpha-sarcomeric actin was not affected. These findings provide additional evidence that an intact FGF signaling pathway is required during heart development.
Conductivity imaging of the erosion pattern for ZnO prepared by planar R.F. magnetron sputtering

Abstract Changes in the electrical conductivity of films of ZnO prepared by reactive r.f. magnetron sputtering were measured with respect to the relative substrate position in a fixed plane parallel to the target surface. The observed spatial dependence of the film conductivity is directly correlated with the target erosion pattern. Regions of high erosion on the target correspond to low conductivity in the same relative regions on the substrate. It is shown that magnetron systems utilizing a moving substrate to obtain high thickness uniformity may not achieve optimal film properties.
The Relative Merits of Different Types of Overall Evaluations of Teaching Effectiveness

An unresolved issue in student evaluations of teaching effectiveness (SETE) literature is what type of overall evaluation of teaching effectiveness should be used in personnel decisions. The objective of this study is to compare the merits of: (a) an overall evaluation made by students, (b) a weighted average overall evaluation with the weights determined by students, (c) a weighted average overall evaluation with the weights being determined by the individual instructors teaching their respective classes, (d) an unweighted average overall evaluation, and (e) a second-order factor that proxies for an overall evaluation. Our results indicate that: (a) all of these overall evaluations were very highly intercorrelated, (b) the unweighted and weighted average overall evaluations measured virtually the same thing, and (c) the second-order factor that served as an overall evaluation was most highly correlated with the other overall evaluations and had the advantage of being most understandable to the faculty.
Variability of magnetoencephalographic sensor sensitivity measures as a function of age, brain volume and cortical area.

Objective To assess the feasibility and appropriateness of magnetoencephalography (MEG) for both adult and pediatric studies, as well as for the developmental comparison of these factors across a wide range of ages.
System Characterization Using A Lateral Shearing Interferometer

A lateral shearing interferometer similar to that described by Rimmer and WyantI was built and used to characterize an off-axis collimator/beam combiner system. Reduction of the interferogram data was accomplished by using an image processing system to digitize the fringe data convert the two orthogonal slope interferograms to a single wavefront interferogram, and then compute the system optical transfer function (nTP). The software was derived from a version of the FRINGE code (developed at the University of Arizona) modified to run on a VAX 11/780--DeAnza 1P8500 image processing system. The double crossed gratings (420 line pairs per millimeter) used to obtain orthogonal interferograms of the wavefront slope were produced using a technique based o Lloyd's mirror. This paper presents the technique used to produce the gratings, the configuration of the interferometer, and the results obtained (both interferometric and reduced OTF data).
Making Mathematics with Needlework: Ten Papers and Ten Projects

edited by sarah-marie belcastro and Carolyn Yackel, Wellesley, Massachusetts, A.K. Peters Ltd, 2008, 184 pp., US$30.00 (hardcover), ISBN 978-1-56881-331-6 Many people who do needlework recognize th...
Structure and reactions of a cyanogenetic lipid from Cordia verbenacea DC. seed oil

Abstract Cordia verbenacea DC. (Boraginaceae) seed oil consists of a mixture of cyanogenetic, nonglycerol diesters (35%) and ordinary triglycerides. The nitrogen-containing esters are composed of two ordinary fatty acid moieties (predominantly C 20 ) esterified with a five-carbon dihydroxynitrile containing a terminal methylene grouping. All attempts to isolate this diol in an unesterified form resulted in mixtures of unstable products. The diesters form hydrogen cyanide on treatment with base and also yield formaldehyde upon mild alkaline oxidation. Hydrogen uptake is erratic, and varying degrees of hydrogenolysis with formation of monoesters occur when platinum or palladium is used as catalyst. Hydrolysis of the diesters with barium hydroxide gives a mixture of products which appear to be unsaturated hydroxy lactams. γ-Lactones with one acyl group attached are generated by refluxing the diesters with glacial acetic acid containing sulfuric acid as a catalyst.
Multiscale Simulation of Nanobiological Flows

A new multiscale approach for simulating nanobiological flows uses concurrent coupling of constrained molecular dynamics for long biomolecules with a mesoscopic lattice Boltzmann treatment of solvent hydrodynamics. The approach is based on a simple scheme of space- time information exchange between the atomistic and mesoscopic scales.
Irradiated Uveal Melanomas: Cytopathologic Correlation With Prognosis

Purpose We analyzed the additional prognostic information from cytopathologic data obtained at the time of uveal melanoma irradiation. Methods Fine-needle aspiration biopsies (FNABs) were performed and rereviewed in a masked manner. These data and standard prognostic variables were correlated with survival and local tumor recurrence using Kaplan-Meier and Cox model statistical techniques. Results Cytopathologic assessment of cell type added to prognostic accuracy. In 116 patients, the percentage of epithelioid cells on FNAB and ciliary body involvement were most strongly correlated with melanoma-related mortality. Conclusions FNAB data improved our prognostic accuracy in irradiated uveal melanoma patients.
Surgical Therapies for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Surgical therapies for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension typically are reserved for patients who are deemed to be refractory to medical therapy and have evidence of progressive right-sided heart failure. Atrial septostomy, a primarily palliative procedure, may stave off hemodynamic collapse from right-sided heart failure long enough to permit a more definitive surgical treatment such as lung or combined heart-lung transplantation. This article discusses indications for and results of atrial septostomy and lung and heart-lung transplantation in patients who have pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Combined treatment of intravitreal bevacizumab and intravitreal triamcinolone in patients with retinal vein occlusion: 6 months of follow-up

To report 6 months of results of combined treatment of intravitreal bevacizumab and triamcinolone in patients with retinal vein occlusion (RVO). Retrospective consecutive case series. Intravitreal bevacizumab (1.25 mg) combined with intravitreal triamcinolone (2 mg) was injected to 16 patients with RVO: eight with branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) and eight with central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). Patient’s charts were reviewed for age, sex, previous ocular interventions, duration of follow-up, number of intraocular injections, intraocular pressure (IOP) and central macular thickness measured by optical coherence tomography (OCT). We included only patients that completed 6 months of follow-up. Mean age and number of injections were 72.9 ± 11.99 years, and 2 ± 0.81 respectively. In eight patients with CRVO, initial visual acuity was logMAR 1.09 ± 0.67 and mean visual acuity at 1, 3 and 6 months was logMAR 0.98 ± 0.55 (p = 0.59), 1.33 ± 1.05 (p = 0.4) and 1.4 ± 1.2 (p = 0.34) respectively. In eight patients with BRVO, initial visual acuity was logMAR 1.025 ± 0.58 and mean visual acuity at 1, 3, and 6 months was 0.56 ± 0.21 (p = 0.05), 0.61 ± 0.17 (p = 0.03) and 0.66 ± 0.34 (p = 0.12) respectively. Mean initial central macular thickness for the whole group was 527 ± 182 μm and mean central macular thickness at 6 months was 379 ± 156 μm (p < 0.001). This study suggests that combined treatment with intravitreal bevacizumab and intravitreal triamcinolone improves structural outcome in patients with retinal vein occlusion. In our study, the combination of triamcinolone acetonide and bevacizumab offered no advantage over previously published results with intravitreal bevacizumab injections alone for improving vision at 6 months
On the importance of carrion to reproduction in an omnivorous estuarine neogastropod, Ilyanassa obsoleta (Say).

The hypothesis that carrion provides a source of nutrition important to reproduction in the omnivorous neogastropod, Ilyanassa obsoleta (Say), was tested by collecting snails during winter, prior to reproductive season, and allowing them to feed ad libitum on three replicated diets (with starvation control) in the laboratory: vegetable, meat, and a mixture of meat and vegetable.
Clinical Update of Opioid Agonist and Partial Agonist Medications for the Maintenance Treatment of Opioid Addiction

Abstract After years of failures in managing heroin addiction by both supportive and punitive abstinence-based treatment modalities or incarceration, with or without initial short-term detoxification using an opioid agonist, research into the potential use of primarily mu opioid receptor directed agonist (or use of a partial agonist) in the chronic maintenance treatment of long-term opiate (primarily heroin) addiction was performed and such treatments have been developed. Of these treatments, chronic “maintenance” with the long-acting, orally effective, synthetic opioid methadone has been shown to be both highly effective and very safe. The extent of its effectiveness is directly related to its appropriate use in maintenance treatment, combining the use of proper doses of methadone (60 to 120 mg/day in most patients) with adjunctive treatment, including counseling and access to medical, behavioral, and psychiatric care. More recently, a second long-acting opioid, l -α-acetylmethadol (LAAM) has been approved for chronic maintenance of opiate addiction. This agent has also been shown to be safe and effective when used in appropriate doses and with adjunctive treatment as needed by each individual. A third agent, a partial agonist (or mixed agonist–antagonist) buprenorphine, is currently under rigorous study in the United States and is already being used in other parts of the world in the chronic maintenance treatment of opiate addiction. Other novel approaches such as using a kappa opioid receptor agonist, like the natural opioid receptor peptide dynorphin A, or a synthetic peptide or heterocyclic congener thereof, are now under study. This paper presents a historical review of the development, the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of each agent, their neurobiological effects and safety, and efficacy in treatment. A formulation of the rationale for use of these and other opioid agonist-like compounds which might be developed in the future for the treatment of opioid addiction will be discussed.
Lipopolysaccharide Variability inPseudomonas aeruginosa

The lipopolysaccharide (LPS) ofPseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 9027) exhibited gross changes in both the amount of LPS produced per cell and the composition of the LPS in response to changes in magnesium ion concentrations. Compositional variation in the LPS was detected under both batch and continuous culture conditions, and was particularly apparent as changes in the levels of heptose in the molecule. Compositional changes in the molecule were also reflected as functional alterations in the LPS. However, functionally, these alterations were counterbalanced by increased production of the lipopolysaccharide. We propose that LPS composition changed in accordance with environmental factors, and that cells responded to these changes by increasing or decreasing the amount of LPS produced.
Can the world do without nuclear power? Can the world live with nuclear power?

AbstractNuclear power produces almost a fifth of the world's electricity at present. Its cost is low enough that in countries with centralised grids nuclear plants could cover essentially all electrical needs. Doubling the world's consumption of electrical energy and providing all this by nuclear generation would exhaust the three million tonne assured terrestrial uranium supply in a few years, but the four billion tonnes of uranium in the oceans could supply these plants for two thousand years (and breeders thereafter for two hundred thousand). A continued and especially expanded nuclear industry will require competitive, commercial, mined geological repositories in several countries, open to approved forms of spent fuel or reprocessed nuclear waste. Increased support for the IAEA will be necessary for it to carry out its traditional roles as well as regulating and securing such storage sites. The safety of nuclear facilities against terrorism or wartime attack would be improved by putting reactors under...
A SYSTEMATIC APPROACH TO SOME ASPECTS OF CONSERVATION BIOLOGY

A more systematic approach to conservation biology would be desirable for several reasons. It would reduce the biases that can arise from overlooking potentially important factors in conservation applications; it could help to clarify important definitions; and it could help to relate apparently disparate studies. We suggest that models adopted from the familiar models of analysis of variance (ANOVA) can provide such an approach and serve these purposes. We present such a model. Its terms provide a checklist that could be used to assess the completeness of databases, management plans, and theoretical models. Red-cockaded Woodpecker (Picoides borealis) conservation is discussed as an example of the usage of this model as a checklist. The model presented here can also be used to clarify the definitions of some important concepts, especially the definitions of demographic stochasticity and environmental stochasticity, which different authors have sometimes used differently. This model provides a way of clarifying and communicating whatever definition an author may choose to use. Finally, we suggest that the model we present, or similar models also based upon ANOVA models, can be used to relate theoretical models to each other, and to empirical studies, by identifying the types of variation that are present or absent in each.
Effects of cultivar and tempering procedures on crude soybean oil volatiles

The effects of soybean cultivar and tempering procedures on crude soybean oil volatiles were investigated by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Varietal differences in volatiles were not obvious. Trends in volatile contents due to tempering were noted primarily when comparing mean peak areas of these compounds in oils stored 16 days at 60°C. Differences in volatiles in response to tempering were not apparent in oils that had not been stored. Equilibration of beans with water resulted in oils with higher volatile contents than those from untempered beans. Steaming lowered volatiles from equilibrated values, and pressure steaming had an even more dramatic lowering effect.
Clinical Pharmacodynamics of Antipseudomonal Cephalosporins in Patients with Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia

Advanced-generation cephalosporins are frequently used for empirical coverage of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) due to their activity against a broad spectrum of Gram-positive and Gram-negative aerobic bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterobacteriaceae. Providing optimal antibiotic exposure is essential to achieving successful response in patients with VAP. We evaluated exposures of two antipseudomonal cephalosporins, ceftazidime and cefepime, in patients with VAP due to Gram-negative bacilli to identify the pharmacodynamic parameter predictive of microbiological success. Population pharmacokinetic models were used to estimate individual free drug exposures. Pharmacodynamic indices were determined for each patient using the baseline Gram-negative bacilli with the highest drug MIC. Classification and regression tree analysis was utilized to partition exposure breakpoints, and multivariate logistic regression was conducted to identify predictors of microbiological success. A total of 73 patients (18 receiving ceftazidime therapy and 55 receiving cefepime therapy) were included. MICs ranged widely from 0.047 to 96 μg/ml. The microbiological success rate was 58.9%. Predictive breakpoints were identified for all pharmacodynamic parameters, including a serum fT > MIC greater than 53% (P = 0.02). When controlling for APACHE II (odds ratio [OR], 1.01; 95% confidence interval, 0.93 to 1.09; P = 0.85) and combination therapy (OR, 0.74; 95% confidence interval, 0.25 to 2.19; P = 0.59), achieving a greater than 53% fT > MIC remained a significant predictor of success (OR, 10.3; 95% confidence interval, 1.1 to 92.3; P = 0.04). In patients with VAP due to Gram-negative bacilli, serum exposure of greater than 53% fT > MIC was found to be a significant predictor of favorable microbiological response for antipseudomonal cephalosporins. These data are useful when determining dosing regimens for cephalosporin agents under development for pneumonia.
Control of ventilation in subsequent siblings of victims of sudden infant death syndrome

To learn whether the ventilatory responses to hypoxia (17% O 2 ) and hypercapnea (4% CO 2 ) differ in the subsequent siblings of sudden infant death victims (SIDS), we studied seven normal control infants, nine infants who had had a prolonged apneic spell (apneic infants), and 10 subsequent siblings of SIDS (mean ages 10.4 weeks, 15 weeks, and 10 weeks, respectively). With inhalation of 17% O 2 , one of seven controls, two of nine apneic infants, and seven of 10 siblings of SIDS breathed periodically (controls vs siblings, p 2 did not change, but respiratory rate decreased in the siblings (45 to 31 breaths per minute, P 2 there was a similar increase in estimated ventilation among the three groups. Arousal occurred 33% of the time in all three groups. Our findings show that, after 5 weeks of age, siblings of SIDS have a normal response to hypercapnea but respond to mild hypoxia with periodic breathing.
VLT and Keck interferometry

Abstract I summarize the current status, science highlights and future plans of the Keck and Very Large Telescope interferometers.
The effect of inorganic lead on hepatic biochemical and ultrastructural changes produced by phenobarbital

Lead acetate (105 mumol/kg, i.p.) decreased rat hepatic cytochrome P-450 to 57% and 63% of control values when measured 24 and 48 h after lead administration, respectively. A large increase in urinary delta-aminolevulinic acid (U-ALA) was observed after lead treatment, indicating a depression of heme synthesis. In addition, lead treatment produced dilated cisternae of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER). Phenobarbital (100 mg/kg, i.p.) produced an induction of cytochrome P-450, proliferation of the SER, and did not alter U-ALA content. Simultaneous lead and phenobarbital treatment produced a delayed but robust induction of cytochrome P-450, only a moderate rise in U-ALA, and a reduced proliferation of the SER of hepatocytes. Therefore, phenobarbital, an inducer of heme synthetic enzymes, is apparently capable of reversing lead-induced inhibition of heme synthesis as measured by hepatic cytochrome P-450 induction and U-ALA content.
The photoelectron spectrum of phosphorus pentafluoride

Abstract The He(I) photoelectron spectrum of PF5 has been determined. Assignments for the six observed bands are suggested and comparisons with several semi-empirical molecular orbital calculations are made. Particular interest is associated with the fifth band since it exhibits vibrational fine structure.