cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Membrane function and vascular reactivity.

This communication examines the possibility that nitric oxide (NO) production by endothelial cells results from changes in cell membrane fluidity. Lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) alters fluidity of the endothelial cell membranes causing vascular relaxation. Through membrane alterations LPC influences function of a number of membrane receptors and modulates enzyme activity. As a result of detergent action, lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) causes activation of guanylate cyclase, stimulates syalytransferase and regulates protein kinase C activity. It has already been demonstrated that ionic detergents, such as Triton X-100 also cause vascular relaxation, possibly induced by NO production from endothelial cells. It is postulated that production of nitric oxide results from changes in membrane viscosity; this may represent a mechanism for its regulation in biological systems.
The meaning of super-resolution

Regarding the terminology "super-resolution", there is frequently confusion with respect to the meaning of the word. In fact, some say that the term has been "hijacked" or stolen from its original meaning and is being applied improperly to a newer area of work. The earlier work involved the estimation of spatial information beyond the MTF band-limit of an imaging system (typically the diffraction limit). The newer work involves the use of successive, multiple frames from an undersampled imager to collectively construct a higher resolution image. The former area has to do with diffraction blur and the latter area has to do with sampling. In this short paper, we describe the nomenclature confusion, the two research areas, present a nomenclature solution proposed by IEEE, and then provide some comments and conclusions.
MENTAL HEALTH VALUES OF CLERGY: EFFECTS OF OPEN-MINDEDNESS, RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION, AND EDUCATION IN COUNSELING

Multivariate analyses of variance indicated that both religious affiliation and education in counseling of 44 Episcopal and 51 Catholic clergy had over-all effects on their scores on the Mental Health Values Questionnaire. In separate univariate analyses, significant effects were found on six of eight mental health value subscales. On all subscales in which significant interactions occurred, much of the variance was found among the clergy who were least well educated in counseling. As education in counseling increased, perceptions of mental health values became more consistent between affiliations. Mental health values of clergy were similar to those of a sample of psychotherapists, with Self-acceptance and Good Interpersonal Relations being the highest scored values for both groups.
The Effects of Required and Optional Computer-Based Note Taking on Achievement and Instructional Completion Time

This study investigated the effects on achievement and on instructional completion time of mandatory and optional note taking during a Computer-Based Instruction (CBI) lesson. Eighty-one undergraduate subjects participated. The required note-taking group had to enter notes on every screen of the HyperCard lesson before the instruction would advance. Subjects could see their notes during the instruction and were allowed to review their notes briefly before taking the post-test. An analysis of variance revealed that the required note-taking group scored significantly higher on the post-test and took significantly longer to complete the instruction than did the optional or control groups. Furthermore, the optional note-taking group scored significantly higher on the post-test and took significantly longer to complete the instruction than did the control group.
Thermodynamically Controlled Separation of Polyvalent 2-nm Gold Nanoparticle-Oligonucleotide Conjugates

We describe the synthesis of small (2-nm diameter) gold nanoparticles densely functionalized with thiolated DNA (DNA-Au NPs) and a method to separate these particles from excess free DNA after synthesis. The separation method utilizes the thermodynamically enhanced binding properties of 2-nm DNA-Au NPs, compared to free excess DNA, to selectively hybridize these small particles to larger (15-nm diameter) DNA-Au NPs and form aggregates that can be isolated by simple centrifugation. These 2-nm DNA-Au NPs are obtained in a 46% overall yield, have a high surface coverage of DNA (64.8 ± 6.4 pmol/cm2), and as a result, exhibit increased melting temperatures and cooperative melting properties.
Specific absorption and backscatter coefficient signatures in southeastern Atlantic coastal waters

Measurements of natural water samples in the field and laboratory of hyperspectral signatures of total absorption and reflectance were obtained using long pathlength absorption systems (50 cm pathlength). Water was sampled in Indian River Lagoon, Banana River and Port Canaveral, Florida. Stations were also occupied in near coastal waters out to the edge of the Gulf Stream in the vicinity of Kennedy Space Center, Florida and estuarine waters along Port Royal Sound and along the Beaufort River tidal area in South Carolina. The measurements were utilized to calculate natural water specific absorption, total backscatter and specific backscatter optical signatures. The resulting optical cross section signatures suggest different models are needed for the different water types and that the common linear model may only appropriate for coastal and oceanic water types. Mean particle size estimates based on the optical cross section, suggest as expected, that particle size of oceanic particles are smaller than more turbid water types. The data discussed and presented are necessary for remote sensing applications of sensors as well as for development and inversion of remote sensing algorithms.
SAFETY OF ORAL DOFETILIDE LOADING FOR RHYTHM CONTROL OF ATRIAL ARRHYTHMIAS

Although dofetilide is widely used in the United States for rhythm control in patients with symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF), there is minimal safety data in the AF population despite its known risk of Torsade de pointes (TdP). We conducted a retrospective chart review of a cohort of 1,404
Interferon-mediated enhancement of in vitro replication of porcine circovirus type 2 is influenced by an interferon-stimulated response element in the PCV2 genome.

Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) is an economically important swine pathogen. It has been shown that treatment of PCV2-infected cells with interferon gamma (INF-γ) or alpha (IFN-α) increases PCV2 replication in vitro, and that an interferon-stimulated response element (ISRE)-like sequence was identified in the PCV2 genome. To determine if the ISRE is involved in viral response to IFNs, several ISRE mutants of PCV2 were created by serial mutations of the ISRE sequence. Treatment of ISRE mutants-infected cells with IFN-γ or IFN-α showed a progressive diminishment in the enhanced viral replication in correlation with increasing alterations to the ISRE sequence. To determine if the ISRE was necessary and sufficient for IFN-mediated enhancement of PCV2 replication, DNA fragments spanning the ISRE-containing promoter region of the rep gene from wildtype and ISRE-mutant PCV2 were tested in a luciferase reporter gene system. 3D4/31 cells transfected with reporter gene constructs were treated with IFN-γ or IFN-α, respectively. The results showed that the untreated controls for both ISRE-mutant and wildtype PCV2 had higher levels of luciferase reporter activity than IFN-treated samples, indicating that, when removed from the context of whole viral genome, the ISRE-like activity of the sequence was lost. Furthermore, treatment with IFNs diminished the promoter activity regardless of the mutation, suggesting that other cis elements in the viral genome may be required for regulating the ISRE-mediated gene transcription. In conclusion, the PCV2 ISRE, when present in the context of intact virus but not in isolation, influences the interferon-mediated enhancement of PCV2 replication in vitro.
Partial reversal by beta‐d‐xyloside of salicylate‐induced inhibition of glycosaminoglycan synthesis in articular cartilage

While net /sup 35/S-glycosaminoglycan synthesis in normal canine articular cartilage was suppressed by 10(-3)M sodium salicylate to about 70% of the control value, addition of xyloside (10(-6)M-10(-3)M) to the salicylate-treated cultures led to a concentration-dependent increase in glycosaminoglycan synthesis, which rose to 120-237% of controls. Similar results were obtained when /sup 3/H-glucosamine was used to measure glycosaminoglycan synthesis, confirming that salicylate suppresses and xyloside stimulates net glycosaminoglycan synthesis, and not merely sulfation. Salicylate (10-3)M) did not affect the activity of xylosyl or galactosyl transferase prepared from canine knee cartilage, and net protein synthesis was unaltered by either salicylate or xyloside. The proportion of newly synthesized proteoglycans existing as aggregates when cartilage was cultured with xyloside was similar to that in controls, although the average hydrodynamic size of disaggregated proteoglycans and of sulfated glycosaminoglycans was diminished.
A robust approach for clock offset estimation in wireless sensor networks

The maximum likelihood estimators (MLEs) for the clock phase offset assuming a two-way message exchange mechanism between the nodes of a wireless sensor network were recently derived assuming Gaussian and exponential network delays. However, the MLE performs poorly in the presence of non-Gaussian or nonexponential network delay distributions. Currently, there is a need to develop clock synchronization algorithms that are robust to the distribution of network delays. This paper proposes a clock offset estimator based on the composite particle filter (CPF) to cope with the possible asymmetries and non-Gaussianity of the network delay distributions. Also, a variant of the CPF approach based on the bootstrap sampling (BS) is shown to exhibit good performance in the presence of reduced number of observations. Computer simulations illustrate that the basic CPF and its BSbased variant present superior performance than MLE under general random network delay distributions such as asymmetric Gaussian, exponential, Gamma, Weibull as well as various mixtures.
Measurement of equine prolactin with an equine-canine radioimmunoassay: seasonal effects on the prolactin response to thyrotropin releasing hormone

Abstract A radioimmunoassay (RIA) based on anti-equine prolactin antiserum and radioiodinated canine prolactin was used to assess the dose response of plasma prolactin to thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) in mares in the nonbreeding season (winter) and in mares in estrus in the breeding season (summer). Mares were administered TRH intravenously and blood samples were collected via jugular catheters at −15, 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, 180 and 240 min relative to injection. Doses of TRH were 0, .08, .40, 2.0 and 10.0 mg per mare (n = 3 per dose within each season). The prolactin response was assessed by absolute hormonal concentrations before and after TRH injection and by net area under the curve. Prolactin concentrations in plasma before injection of TRH were higher (P
Comparative abilities of Candida glabrata and Candida albicans to colonize and translocate from the intestinal tract of antibiotic-treated mice

Candida albicans is the primary cause of candidemia in hospitalized patients, and the intestinal tract is considered the source of most systemic infections. C. glabrata has emerged as the second or third most frequent cause of candidemia, but little is known about its epidemiology and pathogenesis. Our goal was to compare the intestinal colonization and extra-intestinal dissemination of C. glabrata and C. albicans (wild type and filamentation-defective mutant). Mice were pretreated with antibacterial agents to alter their resident microflora, and then orally inoculated with C. glabrata and/or C. albicans . Elimination of detectable cecal bacteria facilitated colonization with both Candida species. Selective elimination of aerobic/ facultative gram-negative bacilli did not noticeably affect Candida colonization, but Escherichia coli overgrowth inhibited colonization. In all situations, C. glabrata colonized the cecum equally well or better than C. albicans , and the ability of C. albican s to form filaments did not facilitate colonization. In vitro generation times had little relevance to the resulting cecal population levels of C. glabrata and C. albicans , and neither species readily disseminated to mesenteric lymph nodes. Thus, like C. albicans , the intestinal tract may be an epidemiological reservoir for C. glabrata and antibiotic-induced alterations in intestinal bacteria may facilitate colonization. Key words: Candida glabrata, Candida albicans, in testine, yeast, mouse, translocation
Insight into One's Own Teaching: Stability of Students' Evaluations across Classes

Analysis of responses from end-of-course evaluations of 24 graduate statistics classes taught by the author on a 26-item evaluation form yielded highly reliable evaluations for both classes (.93) and items (.96). Reliable differences were found for six consecutive stages of four classes each with strong positive trend and weak but significant cubic trend apparent. Items accounted for .423 of the variance with stage explaining .166 and interaction of stage and item .085. A stable hierarchy of item characteristics indicated consensus with mean rating correlating —.76 with standard deviation. Most favorable ratings were given on instructor-student relations, motivation-stimulation, reasonable work load and tests, and clearness of grading procedures, with least favorable ratings on subject organization and competence.
MAXIMIZING SELECTIVITY OF LIQUID-LIQUID REACTION SYSTEMS. CONTROL OF THE DISPERSION PROCESS

Abstract Currently available information on droplet coalescence and break-up rates in turbulent flows in mixing vessels can be used to control drop sizes in dispersed phase equipment. The effect of drop size distributions on the selectivity and productivity in multi-reaction systems is examined in this paper. The reaction system features the primary desired product (C) as resulting from reaction (in the bulk phase) between a reactant (A) in the drop phase and a second reactant (B) in the bulk phase. An adverse reaction is also envisaged which consumes (C) by further reaction with (B) to form a waste product. While small drops promote conversion because of large interfacial area, larger drops promote selectivity because of the facility of the product to re-enter the drop phase avoiding further reaction (to form waste) in the bulk phase. The effect of the bivariate distribution of drop size and reactant (A) concentration in the feed to a continuous stirred tank reactor on the selectivity and productivity of...
Optimal sampling and range of measurement in displacement-only laser-speckle correlation

A statistical analysis of the subjective laser-speckle pattern is performed with emphasis on its spectral distribution. An optimal sampling resolution of the laser-speckle pattern is obtained using the Shannon sampling theorem. Experiments show that the displacement-only correlation using laser speckles is a reliable measurement as long as the sampling requirement is satisfied. Upper limits of measurement such as accuracy, measurable area and measurable deformation are discussed. A method of changing the measurement capabilities by adjusting the speckle-recording arrangement is also given.
The synthesis of 3H-putrescine and subsequent biosynthesis of 3H-jacobine, a pyrrolizidine alkaloid from Senecio Jacobaea

A new method was developed for the preparation of tritiated putrescine dihydrochloride ([2,3-3H]-1,4-diaminobutane dihydrochloride) from succinonitrile (1,4-butanedinitrile) and 3H2O, with a radiochemical yield of 16%. Tritiated jacobine and other pyrrolizidine alkaloids were then biosynthesized in Seneciojacobaea using 3H-putrescine·2HC as the precursor with a radiochemical yield of 0.9% into total pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Jacobine accounted for 36% of the total. This synthetic method provides a relatively inexpensive source for the preparation of these labelled compounds.
Randomized clinical trial comparing affect regulation and supportive group therapies for victimization-related PTSD with incarcerated women

Traumatic victimization and associated problems with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and affect dysregulation are prevalent among incarcerated women, but there is limited evidence to support psychotherapeutic interventions for these problems in this underserved population. A group psychotherapy designed to enhance affect regulation without trauma memory processing-Trauma Affect Regulation: Guide for Education and Therapy (TARGET)-was compared to a supportive group therapy (SGT) in a randomized clinical trial with 72 incarcerated women with full or partial PTSD. Both interventions achieved statistically significant reductions in PTSD and associated symptom severity and increased self-efficacy. Dropout rates for both interventions were low (<5%). TARGET was more effective than SGT in increasing sense of forgiveness toward others who have caused harm in the past. Group therapy that teaches affect regulation may enhance incarcerated women's ability to achieve affective resolution (forgiveness) while also reducing their victimization-related PTSD and associated symptoms. Experiential-focused supportive group therapy also may reduce victimization-related PTSD and associated symptoms. Both group therapy approaches warrant further study with this vulnerable population.
Accurate energy expenditure estimation using smartphone sensors

Accurate and online Energy Expenditure Estimation (EEE) utilizing small wearable sensors is a difficult task with most existing schemes. In this work, we focus on accurate EEE for tracking ambulatory activities of a common smartphone user. We used existing smartphone sensors (accelerometer and barometer sensor), sampled at low frequency, to accurately detect EEE. Using Artificial Neural Networks, a machine learning technique, a generic regression model for EEE is built that yields upto 83% correlation with actual Energy Expenditure (EE). Using barometer data, in addition to accelerometry is found to significantly improve EEE performance (upto 10%). We compare our results against state-of-the-art Calorimetry Equations (CE) and consumer electronics devices (Fitbit and Nike+ Fuel Band).
Mouse model of erectile dysfunction due to diet-induced diabetes mellitus.

OBJECTIVES To determine whether diet-induced diabetes mellitus (DM) in mice would reproduce the major features of human erectile dysfunction (ED) because DM is a significant risk factor in the development of ED. METHODS In total, 150 C57BL6 (bl6) mice were divided into six groups of 25 mice each. Of these 150 mice, 125 were fed a high-fat (45% of total calories) diet for the final 4 (group 2), 8 (group 3), 12 (group 4), 16 (group 5), or 22 (group 6) weeks. Group 1 was fed a normal diet. The mice were 22 to 25 weeks old at study termination. The corporal tissues were harvested and studied for endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent vasoreactivity, endothelial and smooth muscle cell content by immunohistochemistry, nitric oxide synthase expression by nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide-diaphorase staining, and apoptosis by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase biotin-D-UTP nick-end labeling staining. RESULTS The blood glucose levels were greater in groups 2 to 6 compared with those in group 1. The vasoreactivity, endothelial cell content, and smooth muscle/collagen ratio were lower and apoptosis were greater in the DM mice (P = 0.0001, P = 0.10, P = 0.0002, P <0.001, and P <0.001, respectively). Significantly decreased nitric oxide synthase expression and significantly increased apoptosis (P <0.0001 each) was found in the high-fat diet mice. CONCLUSIONS Corporal tissue from mice with diet-induced DM demonstrated many of the major functional, structural, and biochemical changes found in humans with ED. This model should serve as a valuable tool for advancing our understanding of the role DM plays in the pathogenesis of ED.
Clinical correlates of motor performance during paced postural tasks in Parkinson's disease

Abstract Bradykinesia and hypokinesia may both play a significant role in postural instability commonly seen in patients with Parkinson's disease. We investigated which factor -movement time or movement amplitude -is the more significant limiting variable in patients with Parkinson's disease during a paced postural task. We also assessed the effect of antiparkinson medication upon these movement factors and the degree of correlation with changes in clinical performance. Subjects performed paced left-right (L-R) and forward-backward (F-B) continuous weight-shifting tasks at slow, medium and fast paces. Ten Parkinson patients were studied both OFF and ON their usual antiparkinson medication. Ten age-matched healthy controls were also tested and subsequently retested on the same schedule as the patients. Movement times and amplitudes were measured and correlated with clinical changes in UPDRS motor subscores. Parkinson patients performed similar to controls with respect to movement time, but significantly displayed underscaled (reduced) movement amplitude. Movement amplitude improved after antiparkinson medication, but remained significantly less than that of controls. Improvements in L-R movement amplitude correlated with clinical improvements in bradykinesia and postural instability, while improved F-B movement amplitude correlated only with reduced postural instability. We conclude that hypometric movement amplitude, and not abnormal movement time, is the primary abnormality observed in Parkinson patients during a paced postural task. Amplitude underscaling seems antiparkinson medication-dependent and improvement correlates with favorable clinical changes in bradykinesia and postural instability scores.
On Lp estimates for the wave equation

Abstract New and more elementary proofs are given of two results due to W. Littman: (1) Let n ⩾ 2, p ⩾ 2n (n − 1) . The estimate ∫∫ (¦▽u¦ p + ¦u t ¦ p ) dx dt ⩽ C ∫∫ ¦□u¦ p dx dt cannot hold for all uϵC0∞(Q), Q a cube in R n × R , some constant C. (2) Let n ⩾ 2, p ≠ 2. The estimate ∫ (¦▽(t)¦ p + ¦u t (t)¦ p ) dx ⩽ C(t) ∫ (¦▽u(0)¦ p + ¦u t (0)¦ p ) dx cannot hold for all C∞ solutions of the wave equation □u = 0 in R n x R ; all t ϵ R ; some function C: R → R .
How many random questions are necessary to identify n distinct objects

Abstract Suppose that X and A are two finite sets of the same cardinality n ⩾ 2. Assume that there is a bijective mapping φ: X → A which is unknown to us, and we must determine it. We are allowed to ask a sequence of questions each posed as follows. For a given B ⊂ A what is φ−1(B)? In this paper we study a case when the subsets B are chosen uniformly at random. The main result is: if each subset has to split all the atoms of a field generated by the previous subsets, then the total number of questions (needed to determine the mapping completely) is log 2 n + (1 + o p (1))(2 log 2 n) 1 2 . Here op(1) stands for a random term approaching 0 in probability as n → ∞.
Managing change towards design for Six Sigma

Design for Six Sigma™ (DFSS) is a systematic product design methodology for designing new products that has customer requirements inherently built into the various phases of the development process. Whilst the concept is not new, the rigour and the discipline required to ensure the Voice of the Customer is effected from concept to ship means moving engineers away from their tried and tested comfort approach. This paper focuses on the experiences of the Associates of DFSS in changing the management aspect of introducing DFSS methodology to the product development engineering at Motorola Penang Design Centre.
Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Design Optimization With Numerical Adjoint Techniques

In this paper analysis results for a 2D solid oxide fuel cell model are presented. The model is solved on an unstructured mesh with the finite-volume scheme using an iterative Newton’s method. A cost function is computed on the anode/electrolyte interface proportional to the ratio of the density of hydrogen to water. Sensitivity derivatives of the cost function are obtained with respect to the design variable, Psi, the ratio of porosity to tortuosity in the mean transport pore model with three methods: finite-difference, direct differentiation, and the adjoint technique. The results of the three methods are compared for accuracy. An optimization step is taken using the sensitivity derivative to improve the value of the cost function. The cost function is improved with the design step.
One-step sucrose dilution of frozen-thawed sheep embryos

Sheep embryos of the late morula to early blastocyst stage were frozen, thawed and cultured to test several sucrose solutions for post-thaw dilution of the cryoprotective agent glycerol. Ewes of mixed breeding were superovulated and embryos were flushed from the uterus either surgically or at slaughter 5 d after estrus. Fifty-eight embryos were pooled in microdrops of modified Dulbecco's phosphate buffered saline (MDPBS) then randomly divided into four treatments. A 2 × 2 factorial design was used to compare 0.25 M sucrose in MDPBS as an in-straw cryoprotectant dilution with a standard step-wise dilution procedure within standard fast and slow freeze-thaw systems. After storage in liquid nitrogen for 6 to 8 d, the embryos were thawed and the cryoprotectant (1.4 M glycerol) removed before culture in microdrops of modified synthetic oviduct fluid under paraffin oil in water-saturated 5% CO2 in air atmosphere at 37 C. No significant interaction was found between the freeze-thaw procedure and cryoprotectant + dilution procedures. Embryos in the fast freeze-thaw procedure had a mean development score of 1.3 ± 0.3 and those in the slow freeze-thaw procedure had a mean score of 1.2 ± 0.3. The mean development score 2.0 ± 0.3 for the standard dilution procedure was superior (P<0.001) to the score of 0.6 ± 0.2 for the 0.25 M sucrose dilution procedure. In a separate trial, 18 sheep morulae were collected and equilibrated with 1.4 M glycerol in MDPBS. A standard fast freeze-thaw procedure was used and, after 18 d of storage at −196 C, the glycerol was diluted from the embryo with 1.0 M sucrose. Culture was conducted in a similar manner and a mean development score of 1.0 ± 0.3 was obtained. These results indicate standard cryoprotectant dilution procedures for sheep embryos are superior to dilution with 0.25 M sucrose. In a limited study, dilution with 1.0 M sucrose was also not as effective as standard dilution procedures.
Ridge-to-Valley Depth Measured with Road Profiler to Control Micromilled Pavement Textures for Super-Thin Resurfacing on I-95

Funding shortages create pavement preservation challenges for state departments of transportation (DOTs). The Georgia DOT developed an innovative micromilling resurfacing method as a cost-effective way to preserve its pavements. The new method can save more than $5 million on an I-95 project of 84 lane miles. To ensure that the micromilled surface texture has a good bond and good runoff capability, the Georgia DOT established a stringent ridge-to-valley-depth (RVD) specification. Preliminary tests were conducted on an I-75 project with a circular track meter and an ultralight inertia profiler, but the RVD was first measured with a laser road profiler for the entire 84 lane miles of the I-95 project. The rough and smooth micromilled pavement surfaces have been studied and compared through an exploration of their statistical characteristics and patterns. Results from four 0.5-mi segments showed that both smooth and rough surface textures revealed normal distributions, although a smooth surface had a slight ...
A computer program for the calculation of Tandem accelerator beam tube optics

Abstract A FORTRAN II computer program for the calculation of particle trajectories through inclined-field or straight accelerating tubes of the type commonly used in Tandem Van de Graaff accelerators is described. Details of the program and results of tube optics calculations are discussed.
Impact behavior of microcellular foams of polystyrene and styrene‐acrylonitrile copolymer, and single‐edge‐notched tensile toughness of microcellular foams of polystyrene, styrene‐acrylonitrile copolymer, and palycarbonate

In the first part of this series of papers, the tensile properties of microcellular foams of polystyrene (PS), styrene-acrylonitrile copolymer (SAN), and polycarbonate (PC) were reported. In this part, the impact properties of unnotched, sharply and bluntly notched samples of microcellularly foamed PS and SAN samples were studied. Furthermore, the effects of the sharpness of the notch as well as of the speed of the test were studied by comparing the impact tests with the single-edge-notched (SEN) tensile tests, which were carried out for the PS, SAN, and PC samples. Some limited improvement in impact and SEN tensile properties was exhibited in some experimental conditions. The impact properties of microcellularly foamed PC samples are reported elsewhere.
The surgical scorecard: a tool to close the loop on OR utilization.

AbstractObjective: Operating room (OR) suites are among the highest cost- and highest revenue-generating areas in most hospitals. A scorecard containing utilization and performance metrics for each surgical service and surgeon was designed by the OR leadership with results sent monthly to each surgical chief. Recent trends reveal an increased focus on optimizing utilization of OR resources as part of institutional cost-analysis efforts. Protected block time into which elective surgical and procedural cases can be booked must be used appropriately and booked fully to offset the fixed costs of staffing and running the OR. Design and Setting: The intent of the scorecard tool was to provide detailed information on utilization of protected block time for performance-improvement planning. First-case on-time start was also measured and reported so that block time at the start of the day was fully utilized. With the granular information on time-use performance of each surgeon, the surgical chiefs were able to mak...
Glyoxalase I 'null' allele in the Polish population.

A silent allele of red-cell glyoxalase I was found in three generations of a Polish family.
Enhanced transgene expression in rat brain cell cultures with a disulfide-containing cationic lipid.

The transfection efficiency of a disulfide-containing cationic lipid, 1',2' dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3'-succinyl-2-hydroxyethyl disulfide ornithine conjugate (DOGSDSO) and its non-disulfide analog (DOGSHDO) were compared in neuronal, astroglial and microglial cultures from newborn rat cerebral cortex. We hypothesized that the relatively high intracellular concentrations of reductive substances in the cytoplasm may help to cleave the reversible disulfide bond in DOGSDSO, thus increasing free DNA and decreasing toxicity due to rapid degradation of the lipid. We have demonstrated through mass spectrometric analysis that a reductive compound, e.g. dithiothreitol (DTT) could degrade the disulfide lipid. DOGSDSO was more efficient at transfecting each type of brain cell than were the non-disulfide DOGSHDO and DOTAP (1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethyl-ammonium-propane) liposomes. These results demonstrate that disulfide-containing cationic liposomes facilitate gene transfection in cultured rat brain cells.
Ellagic acid binding to DNA as a possible mechanism for its antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic action

Abstract Ellagic acid (EA), a plant phenol, is reported to possess antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic activity. In the present study, explants of esophagus, trachea, colon, forestomach and bladder from young male Sprague-Dawley rats were incubated in medium containing [3H]EA (4.5 μCi/ml) for 24 h at 37° C. DNA from these explants was extracted, purified and quantitated to determine [3H]EA binding to the DNA. Significant covalent binding of [3H]EA to DNA occurred in all the explants. Calf thymus DNA incubated in 0.05 M sodium phosphate buffer containing [3H]EA covalently bound [3H]EA in a concentration dependent manner. Furthermore covalent binding of [3H]EA to calf thymus DNA was inhibited by the addition of unlabeled EA that was concentration dependent over a range of 50–150 μM and by the addition of unlabeled adenosine, cytidine, guanosine or thymidine at a concentration of 1.0 mM. These results suggest that one of the mechanisms by which EA inhibits mutagenesis and carcinogenesis is by forming adducts with DNA, thus masking binding sites to be occupied by the mutagen or carcinogen.
When two keys fit one lock, surprises follow

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) and PTH-related protein activate the same receptor but can produce divergent effects. Reports now describe two active conformations for the PTH receptor, one of which moves intracellularly—complexed with hormone and G protein—to produce a continued cAMP signal.
Quantitative Prompt Gamma Analysis Using a Focused Cold Neutron Beam

We report the first quantitative results using a focused cold neutron beam for prompt gamma activation analysis (PGAA). We have measured the prompt gamma signal from known Fe, Cr, Ti, B, and Cd specimens in the focusing geometry, from which we determine the sensitivities for these elements by the method of standard addition. Furthermore, we show results of measurements for homogeneous standard reference materials (boron in SRM 611 glass, and iron and chromium in a steel alloy SRM 160b) to verify the sensitivities determined. Finally, we present a position-dependent study of the Cr to Fe mass ratio in an industrial material, taking advantage of the narrowly focused beam. Existing problems for achieving routine quantitative analysis using the focused beam and suggestions for future directions are discussed.
Theory of Logical Nets

The aim of this paper is to place on a more rigorous basis the application of two-valued logic to digital computing circuits. To this end we study the formal properties of various logical nets some of which represent such circuits to a useful degree. A logical net is an array constructed from two primitive elements: a "stroke element," by means of which circuit components performing logical functions may be represented, and a "delay element," used in the representation of memory components. With each net is associated a set of equations useful in studying the behavior of that net. Various types of nets (well-behaved, deterministic, well-formed) are precisely defined and properties of each type are correlated with properties of the associated sets of equations. The relations between the various types of nets are investigated and some study is made of the kinds of operations performed by each. Finally, the question: "To what class of nets do digital computer circuits correspond?" is discussed.
Blood-brain barrier changes following intracerebral injection of human recombinant tumor necrosis factor-alpha in the rat.

Human recombinant tumor necrosis factor-α (rTNF-α) was administered to normal Fischer 344 rats by stereotaxic intracerebral (IC) injection. Animals receiving a single injection of either 6 x 104 U rTNF-α or an equivalent volume of excipient (vehicle) in their right parietal lobe. In order to demonstrate any effects rTNF-α might have on the blood-brain barrier (BBB), two studies were conducted, one employing exogenous horseradish peroxidase (HRP, 44 kD) as a tracer of BBB permeability and the other using endogenous IgG (150 kD). Rats given rTNF-α showed transitory BBB permeability to HRP by 24 hours post-injection; this BBB compromise was determined to be no longer than 60 hours. In the other study, IgG was seen to cross the BBB by 48 hours post-rTNF-α injection. Alternatively, rats injected IC with excipient showed only limited BBB opening as a result of injection-induced trauma. We conclude that human rTNF-α, injected IC into normal rats triggers a temporary breakdown in BBB integrity which begins sometimes between 12 and 24 hours post-injection, is large enough to permit macromolecules of at least 150 kD to pass, and resolves by 72 hours post-injection.
Novel reaction pathways for 2-pyridone [4+4] photoadducts.

Transannular ring closure of a pyridone−furan [4+4] photoadduct has been evaluated in a model system. A combination of nitrogen substitution and an isopropyl group gave full control of the four new stereogenic centers. Chlorination transformed the 1,5-cyclooctadiene to a [4.2.0] ring system instead of to the expected [3.3.0] ring system. Changing an alkene to an enone suppressed this pathway and led to a new rearrangement, converting the 5-8-5 ring system to a 6-7-5 system.
Cost-effectiveness of a new short-stay unit to “rule out” acute myocardial infarction in low risk patients

Objectives. This study attempted to determine the safety and costs of a new short-stay unit for low risk patients who may be admitted to a hospital to rule out myocardial infarction or ischemia. Background. One strategy to reduce the costs of ruling out acute myocardial infarction in low risk patients is to develop alternatives to coronary care units. Methods. The short-term and 6-month clinical outcomes and costs for 592 patients admitted to a short-stay coronary observation unit at Brigham and Women's Hospital with a low (≤ 10%) probability of acute myocardial infarction were compared with those for 924 consecutive comparison patients who were eligible for the same unit but were admitted to other hospital settings or discharged home. Actual costs were calculated using detailed cost-accounting methods that incorporated nursing intensity weights. Results. The rate of major complications, recurrent myocardial infarction or cardiac death during 6 months after the initial presentation of the 592 patients admitted to the coronary observation unit was similar to that of the 924 comparison patients before and after adjustment for clinical factors influencing triage and initial diagnoses (adjusted relative risk 0.86, 95% confidence interval 0.49 to 1.53). Their median total costs (25th, 75th percentile) at 6 months ($1,927; 1,455, 3,650) were significantly lower than for comparison patients admitted to the wards ($4,712; 1,868, 11,187), to stepdown or intermediate care units ($4,031; 2,069, 9,169) or to the coronary care unit ($9,201; 3,171, 20,011) but were higher than for comparison patients discharged home from the emergency department ($403; 403, 927) before and after the same adjustments (all adjusted p < 0.0001). Conclusions. These data suggest that the coronary observation unit may be a safe and cost-saving alternative to current triage strategies for patients with a low risk of acute myocardial infarction admitted from the emergency department. Its replication in other hospitals should be tested.
Relativistic theory of magnetoelastic coupling and magnetic surface anisotropy: Co/Cu(0 0 1)

Abstract The magnetoelastic coupling and magnetic anisotropy energy (MAE) of a Co overlayer on Cu(0 0 1) is studied employing a self-consistent relativistic spin-polarized version of the total energy full potential linearized augmented plane wave (FLAPW) method. We find a magnetostriction coefficient, λ 0 0 1 , which is in good agreement with a previous study based on a perturbative SOC treatment, and has a negative sign caused by a positive surface magnetoelastic anisotropy, and the substantial difference of magnetoelastic coupling coefficients for thin films, as opposed to bulk, is demonstrated.
Multicomponent coagulation and condensation of toxic metals in combustors

The temporal evolution of the size-segregated composition of multiple, heavy metal, combustion-generated aerosols was investigated. The purpose was to gain insight into the competition between metal condensation and aerosol coagulation processes that affect the partitioning of toxic, heavy metals during combustion and their impact on the environment. Experiments were conducted on a2-to 16-kW downflow combustor, which supported a natural gas flame through which aqueous solutions of metal salts were sprayed. The behavior of both single metals and binary mixtures of lead and cadmium (which are both considered semivolatile) and of cadmium and nickel (the latter of which is refractory) was investigated. Particulate samples were withdrawn isokinetically through a rapid-dilution sampling probe from which they were quickly size segregated in a Berner low pressure impactor, allowing physical and chemical resolution in the submicron particle size range. Experimental data agreed with theoretical predictions using an existing literature model. This model solved the general dynamic equation numerically but was modified here to include the effects of film condensation in a simple manner. For samples withdrawn above the semivolatile metal dew points, theory showed that nucleation of the semivolatile metal in the probe, followed by coagulation, could explain completely, the measured size-segregated composition. With similar dew points and number concentrations, cadmium and lead particles interacted primarily through coagulation. However, cadmium and nickel particles did not interact by coagulation in the probe because of disparties in particle size and number concentrations. Further down the furnace, both model and data showed that compositions of particles were determined by condensation on existing nickel particles, rather than by nucleation of the semivolatile component (cadmium), followed by coagulation. These results are consistent with a literature hypothesis, on the effect of temperature quench rate on pertinent aerosol mechanisms.
Synthesis and Reactivity of Magnesium Complexes Supported by Tris(2-dimethylaminoethyl)amine (Me6tren)

The reaction of tris(2-dimethylaminoethyl)amine (Me6tren) with Grignard reagents and related Mg precursors has been investigated. Treating Me6tren with 2 equiv of PhMgBr in diethyl ether resulted in the formation of [(Me6tren)MgBr]Br (1), in which Me6tren is bound in a κ4 fashion. This is the first example of a Mg complex containing Me6tren or a related tris(aminoethyl)amine ligand. In contrast, when MeMgBr was treated with either 1 or 2 equiv of Me6tren, a mixture containing 1 and the alkyl species [(Me6tren)MgMe]Br (3) was produced. It was not possible to separate the two compounds to generate a pure sample of 3. Reaction between Me6tren and greater than 4 equiv of MeMgBr formed [(Me6tren)MgBr]2[MgBr4] (4), an analogue of 1 with a different counterion. The highly unusual dialkyl Mg compound (Me6tren)MgMe2 (5), which features a κ3-bound Me6tren ligand, was synthesized through the reaction of Me2Mg with Me6tren. The reaction of 5 with excess phenylacetylene or carbon dioxide yielded (Me6tren)Mg(CCPh)2 (6)...
The effects of tibial-femoral angle on the failure mechanics of the canine anterior cruciate ligament

Abstract A series of canine femur-ACL-tibia complexes were subjected to tensile tests with axial tibial orientation and 0°, 45° or 90° femoral orientation with respect to load direction. A deflection rate of 51.0 cm min −1 was used in all tests. Marked differences occurred in ultimate loads, deflection and energy absorbed as a consequence of differences in femoral-tibial orientation. The mode of structural failure, as determined by post-test examination, also varied markedly as a function of femoral-tibial orientation. It is concluded that differences both in measured mechanical properties and observed failure details are a consequence of varying the loading pattern of the fiber bundles across the finite breadth of the ligament.
Left Heart Chamber Quantification in Obese Patients: How Does Larger Body Size Affect Echocardiographic Measurements?

Background Accurate normalization of cardiac chamber size in the obese population is a challenge. The aim of this study was to develop and assess the performance of allometric models for scaling left heart chamber sizes, including left atrial anteroposterior dimension (LAD AP ), left atrial volume (LAV), left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV), and left ventricular end-diastolic dimension (LVEDD), in an obese population. Methods To normalize left heart chamber measurements ( Y : LAD AP , LAV, LVEDV, and LVEDD) to body size variables ( X : height, weight, body mass index, and body surface area), both isometric models ( Y = aX ) and optimal allometric models ( Y = aX b ) were tested. A logarithmic transformation (Ln Y = Ln a + b × Ln X ) and ordinary least squares linear regression was performed to estimate the allometric scaling exponents. Pearson's correlation coefficients were obtained for measured and indexed left chamber sizes using both isometric and allometric models against body size variables. Gender-specific allometric models were also derived as sensitivity analyses. Results A total of 717 healthy obese subjects were included in the analysis. The mean body surface area and body mass index were 2.3 m 2 and 42.2 kg/m 2 , respectively. Measured LAD AP , LAV, LVEDD, and LVEDV were positively correlated with body size variables. Allometric scaling of LAD AP , LAV, LVEDD, and LVEDV showed stronger correlation with measured chamber sizes compared with isometric scaling. The overcorrection caused by isometric scaling significantly improved after allometric models were used. The sensitivity analysis showed no significant differences in scaling exponents between men and women. Conclusions Normalizing cardiac chamber measurements with allometric scaling methods is superior to the use of isometric methods in removing the effects of body size and minimizing overcorrection in the obese population. Using an allometric model with height provides the most accurate results.
A Second Look At the Background Trend For AVO Interpretation

The intercept-slope crossplot technique is routinely used for seismic identification of reservoir fluid in the oil industry today. The underlying physical link between the intercept-slope crossplot and rock properties is given by Castagna et al. (1998). According to their theory, the slope of the background trend (the data cloud for water-wet sands and shales in the intercept-slope crossplot) is related to the average Vp/Vs of the rocks. They also predict that the slope becomes flatter as the average Vp/Vs increases.
On the Nature and Variability of the East Greenland Spill Jet: A Case Study in Summer 2003*

AbstractResults from a high-resolution (~2 km) numerical simulation of the Irminger Basin during summer 2003 are presented. The focus is on the East Greenland Spill Jet, a recently discovered component of the circulation in the basin. The simulation compares well with observations of surface fields, the Denmark Strait overflow (DSO), and the hydrographic structure of typical sections in the basin. The model reveals new aspects of the circulation on scales of O(0.1–10) days and O(1–100) km.The model Spill Jet results from the cascade of dense waters over the East Greenland shelf. Spilling can occur in various locations southwest of the strait, and it is present throughout the simulation but exhibits large variations on periods of O(0.1–10) days. The Spill Jet sometimes cannot be distinguished in the velocity field from surface eddies or from the DSO. The vorticity structure of the jet confirms its unstable nature with peak relative and tilting vorticity terms reaching twice the planetary vorticity term.The...