cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mechanical behavior of high density polyethylene and its carbon nanocomposites under quasi-static and dynamic compressive and tensile loadings

Abstract The main objective was to characterize and compare the tensile and compressive mechanical behavior of polymer nanocomposites under both quasi-static and dynamic compressive and tensile loadings. The materials studied included HDPE (high density polyethylene), HDPE/CNF (carbon nanofiber) and HDPE/CNF-GNP (graphite nanoplatelet). Microstructure analyses were also conducted to gain insight into the possible deformation and fracture mechanisms for the observed macroscopic mechanical behavior. The tensile strengths were observed to be lower than the corresponding compression strengths under dynamic loadings, but higher under static loadings. Regarding the strengthening effects due to nanofillers, it was observed that addition of GNP appeared to have somewhat reduced the compressive strength, but improved the tensile strength. Possible mechanisms for the observed tension-compression asymmetry exhibited by both the macroscopic behavior and the reinforcement effects are discussed.
GAP ENERGY OF SUPERCONDUCTING NIOBIUM CARBIDE.

The first estimate of the superconducting energy gap in a transition-metal carbide was recently made from thermal conductivity data on Nb${\mathrm{C}}_{0.96}$ The quantity $\frac{2\ensuremath{\epsilon}(0)}{k{T}_{c}}$ was treated as an adjustable parameter in fitting the data to Bardeen-Rickayzen-Tewordt (BRT) theory, and a good fit was found for $2\ensuremath{\epsilon}(0)k{T}_{c}=4.0$. The resulting value of the gap energy has now been verified by tunneling measurements using both probe and thin-film techniques. The best value is $2\ensuremath{\epsilon}(0)=3.2\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.1$ meV. The result supports the applicability of BRT theory to the transitionmetal carbides having low vacancy concentrations and demonstrates that under favorable circumstances, which may be unique to nonstoichiometric compounds, thermal conductivity data can be used to evaluate the gap energy of a superconductor.
Reasonable breadth-biased: A algorithms

A+ algorithms are A algorithms (as studied by Nilsson) satisfying two additional constraints which magnify the breadth aspect of a graph search. Use of A+ algorithms is perhaps most plausible when it is desirable to generate alternative goal nodes on optimal paths. There are two principal results for A+ algorithms. First, if A1 and A2 are A+ algorithms and A2 is as well informed as A1 then A2 expands no more nodes than A1 does. Second, if an A+ algorithm is modified so as to return a set of optimal paths and the monotone condition is satisfied, the A+ algorithm returns a set of solutions consisting of an optimal path to each goal node on an optimal path.
Environmentally Friendly Vegetable Oil Microemulsions Using Extended Surfactants and Linkers

Microemulsion formation of triglyceride oils at ambient conditions (temperature and pressure) and without the addition of co-oil and/or alcohols is challenging at best. Undesirable phases, such as macroemulsions, liquid crystals and sponge phases, are often encountered when formulating triglyceride microemulsions. The purpose of this study is to investigate the use of extended surfactants, lipophilic linkers, and hydrophilic linkers in enhancing triglyceride solubilization and interfacial tension reduction. We have studied two classes of extended surfactants, linear alkyl polypropoxylated sulfate (LAPS) surfactants and linear alkyl polypropoxylated ethoxylated sulfate (LAPES) surfactants. Linkers evaluated were oleyl alcohol (lipophilic linker), sodium mono and dimethyl naphthalene sulfonate (SMDNS), and polyglucoside (hydrophilic linkers). Oils studied include olive, peanut, soybean, canola and sunflower oils. The effect of electrolyte concentration on microemulsion phase behavior was studied. The microemulsion “fish” diagram was obtained by plotting the total surfactant and linker concentrations versus the electrolyte concentration. We were able to form Winsor Type I, II, III and IV microemulsions at ambient conditions and without co-oil or short and medium chain length alcohol addition. Winsor Type III and IV triglyceride microemulsions are particularly useful in numerous applications such as cosmetics, vegetable oil extraction and soil remediation.
Lethality and Cost of Medication-Related Complications in Elderly Surgical Patients: Lessons Learned from a Harm Reduction Campaign

Long-Term Outcomes of Prolonged Life Supporting Treatment after High Risk Operations Michael J Nabozny, MD, Amber E Barnato, MD, MPH, MS, Paul J Rathouz, PhD, Amy J Kind, MD, PhD, William J Ehlenbach, MD, MS, Qianqian Zhao, MS, Jeffrey A Havlena, MS, Maureen A Smith, MD, MPH, PhD, Caprice C Greenberg, MD, MPH, FACS, Margaret L Schwarze, MD, FACS University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
Amino Acid Racemization on Mars: Implications for the Preservation of Biomolecules from an Extinct Martian Biota

Using kinetic data, we have estimated the racemization half-lives and times for total racemization of amino acids under conditions relevant to the surface of Mars. Amino acids from an extinct martian biota maintained in a dry, cold (<250 K) environment would not have racemized significantly over the lifetime of the planet. Racemization would have taken place in environments where liquid water was present even for time periods of only a few million years following biotic extinction. The best preservation of both amino acid homochirality and nucleic acid genetic information associated with extinct martian life would be in the polar regions.
Astrocytic regulation of the recovery of extracellular potassium after seizures in vivo

Glial cells are believed to play a major role in the regulation of the extracellular potassium concentration ([K+]o), particularly when the [K+]o is increased. Using ion-selective electrodes, we compared the [K+]o changes in the dentate gyrus of urethane-anaesthetized adult rats in the presence of reactive astrocytes and after reduction of glial function. The regulation of [K+]o in the dentate gyrus was determined by measuring the ceiling level of [K+]o and the half-time of recovery of [K+]o during and after seizures produced by 20 Hz trains of stimulation to the angular bundle. Reactive astrocytes were induced by repeated seizures and their presence was confirmed by a qualitative increase in glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and vimentin immunoreactivity. To inhibit glial function, fluorocitrate (FC), a reversible metabolic inhibitor, or alpha-aminoadipate (alpha-AA), an irreversible toxin, was injected into the dentate gyrus region, and the regulation of [K+]o was monitored for 8 h or 2 days later, respectively. After alpha-aminoadipate, loss of astrocytes in the dentate gyrus was demonstrated by loss of staining for GFAP. In the presence of reactive astrocytes there was no significant change in the peak [K+]o during seizures or the half-time of recovery of [K+]o after seizures compared to control animals. alpha-Aminoadipate significantly slowed the rate of recovery of [K+]o, but did not change the ceiling [K+]o. Fluorocitrate reversibly decreased the ceiling [K+]o, but also slowed the rate of recovery of [K+]o. Overall our results suggest that normal glial function is required for the recovery of elevated [K+]o after seizures in vivo.
A jumper insertion algorithm under antenna ratio and timing constraints

In this paper, we propose a jumper insertion algorithm under timing and antenna ratio constraints. Differently from the existing works which assume the jumpers to be placed above the highest layer of a routing tree, our work allows the jumpers to be placed on any routing layer. Furthermore, our algorithm is aware of the delay caused by the jumpers. Experimental results show that, by allowing the jumpers to be placed on any layer, the number of vias added by the jumpers can be reduced by 50%. The experiments also show that our timing-aware jumper insertion algorithm is better at satisfying the timing constraints.
Interview With Alejandro Salas, Acting Director, Americas Regional Department, Transparency International

Alejandro Salas serves as Acting Director of the Americas Regional Department at Transparency International(TI). TI is the leading organization fighting corruption around the world. He recently discussed his organization's latest findings about corruption in Latin America with John C. Bersia, who serves as Special Assistant to the President and is University Professor at the University of Central Florida.
Laparoscopic drainage of intraabdominal abscess after appendectomy: an alternative to laparotomy in cases not amenable to percutaneous drainage.

Abstract Purpose Postoperative abscesses after appendectomy occur in 3% to 20% of cases and are more common in cases of perforated appendicitis. Smaller abscesses are often amenable to antibiotic therapy, but surgical drainage remains the mainstay of treatment for larger collections. Surgical options generally include percutaneous drainage and open laparotomy. Laparoscopic drainage of these abscesses has not been well characterized in the pediatric population. Objective The aim of this study was to describe our experience with laparoscopic drainage of postappendectomy abscesses that were not amenable to percutaneous drainage. Methods This study is a retrospective review of all pediatric patients who underwent laparoscopic appendectomy for acute appendicitis at a tertiary pediatric medical center during a 4-year period (2006-2009). The review focuses on patients who developed abscesses after appendectomy, were unable to undergo percutaneous drainage, and were treated with laparoscopic abscess drainage. Results Twelve patients (7 male and 5 female) underwent laparoscopic drainage of postappendectomy abscesses. The mean age was 8.5 years old (range, 3-14 years). A clinical diagnosis of postoperative abscess was made when fevers, pain, and leukocytosis persisted despite broad-spectrum antibiotics. Computed tomography was performed in all patients. Abscesses ranged between 3 and 11 cm in size. The mean length of time between initial appendectomy and drainage procedure was 10 days. There were no complications specifically related to the laparoscopic drainage procedure. The mean length of the drainage procedure was 77 minutes (range, 30-196 minutes). The mean hospital length of stay after laparoscopic drainage was 6.5 days (range, 3-13 days) with patients maintained on intravenous antibiotics until afebrile and without leukocytosis. Conclusion Laparoscopic drainage is a safe and effective alternative for intraabdominal abscesses that occur after laparoscopic appendectomy. We recommend it as an alternative to open laparotomy when percutaneous drainage is not an option.
Induction of experimental autoimmune thyroiditis in mice with in vitro activated splenic T cells

Spleen cells from CBA/J or SJL mice sensitized with mouse thyroglobulin (MTg) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) could be activated in vitro with MTg to transfer experimental autoimmune thyroiditis (EAT) to normal syngeneic recipients. EAT induced by these transferred cells was similar in incidence and severity to EAT induced by active immunization of mice with MTg and adjuvant and cells from EAT-resistant Balb/c mice could not be activated to induce EAT. The specific antigen MTg was required both for initial sensitization of the mice and for activation of spleen cells in vitro. The cells that were active in transferring EAT to mice were shown to be T cells. Removal of B cells from the cultured spleen cells had no effect on the ability of the cells to induce EAT.
Radiofrequency discharge benchmark model comparison

A well defined basis of comparison for self-consistent simulations of RF discharges is presented. Twelve different simulation efforts including kinetic, hybrid and fluid methods have produced results for a one-dimensional RF discharge simulation using identical cross sections or swarm parameters under specified conditions. In addition, global model predictions are also provided for comparison. The agreement between groups using the particle-in-cell with Monte Carte collisions (PIC-MCC) technique and a hybrid method is good. Differences between PIC-MCC and convective scheme solutions to the Boltzmann equation exist primarily in the electron number density and not energy density. Fluid simulations generally show greater variation in the results than kinetic/hybrid schemes. The differences, which are typically greatest at low pressures, are apparent only in some plasma parameters, such as RF voltage and plasma density, but not in others, such as ion flux to the electrodes. In general, the agreement between global model results and simulation predictions is quite reasonable. These results provide some indication of the sensitivity of the solutions to approximations and numerical techniques used in the various models.
Fault location algorithm for radial distribution systems capable of handling insufficient and inaccurate field data

A fault location algorithm for radial distribution systems is proposed in this paper. The probability model of data error is developed and the standard deviation of the error is selected as one of the inputs to the fault location algorithm. Data processing technology is introduced to evaluate data condition and detect bad data before fault location calculation is obtained. The contribution of inaccurate field-recorded data is recognized in the stage of faulted node selection. Performance of the proposed algorithm is tested and compared with a similar algorithm under imperfect data condition, and the result shows that the proposed algorithm is more reliable when field-recorded data is insufficient or inaccurate.
The cytoplasmic domain of the T-cell receptor zeta subunit does not form disordered dimers.

Intrinsically disordered regions in proteins play active roles in recognition, signaling and molecular sorting. They often undergo coupled folding and binding giving rise to largely ordered interfaces with their binding partners. The cytoplasmic region of the T-cell receptor zeta subunit (ζcyt) has been previously proposed to specifically dimerize in the absence of a disorder-to-order transition, suggesting an intriguing dimerization mechanism that may involve multiple transient interfaces. We show here using analytical ultracentrifugation, NMR, size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) and multi-angle light scattering that neither ζcyt nor the cytoplasmic region of CD3e significantly populates a dimeric state but that they are mostly monomers in solution up to millimolar concentrations. They experience a salt- and concentration-dependent shift of their elution volume in SEC previously interpreted as dimerization. Our data show that ζcyt does not form a highly disordered protein complex and leaves open the question as to whether completely disordered dimers (or other oligomers) exist in nature.
Strong Coupling of Nonlinear Electronic and Biological Oscillators: Reaching the “Amplitude Death” Regime

Interaction between an electronic and a biological circuit has been investigated for a pair of electrically connected nonlinear oscillators, with a spontaneously oscillating olivary neuron as the single-cell biological element. By varying the coupling strength between the oscillators, we observe a range of behaviors predicted by model calculations, including a reversible low-energy dissipation ``amplitude death'' where the oscillations in the coupled system cease entirely.
Milk production and composition in cows and goats fed alpha-ketoisocaproate.

Abstract To examine whether α -ketoisocaproate supplementation affects milk production, 10 goats were fed either 0 or 1.1% calcium- α -ketoisocaproate for 2 wk and 12 cows were fed either 0 or .75% Na α -ketoisocaproate for 3 wk. Supplementation with α -ketoisocaproate increased milk fat content, milk fat yield, and 4% FCM yield in cows by an average of 5, 10, and 8%, respectively, for the treatment period. In cows, response of milk fat yield to α -ketoisocaproate was 120g during wk 1 of treatment but diminished to 55g by wk 3. Milk yield and milk protein yield tended to be greater in cows fed α -ketoisocaproate, but milk production efficiency and body weight were not altered by treatment in either species. Supplementation with α -ketoisocaproate had no significant effect on fatty acid composition of milk but tended to increase the percentage of C 10 and C 12 fatty acids. In goats, supplementation with α -ketoisocaprate had no significant effect on milk production or composition, but trends toward increased milk fat and protein content were observed. Results indicate that α -ketoisocaproate acutely stimulates milk fat production in lactating cows and that this effect seems to diminish with time.
Synthesis, characterization, and DFT study of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon precursors, 1,4-diiodo-2,3,5,6-tetraarylbenzene and 1,4-bis(4-bromophenyl)-2,3,5,6-tetraarylbenzene

Abstract The molecular structure and spectroscopic properties of 1,4-diiodo-2,3,5,6-tetraarylbenzene and 1,4-bis(4-bromophenyl)-2,3,5,6-tetraarylbenzene have been investigated by density functional theory (DFT), 1 H NMR, 13 C NMR, IR spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. These compounds are the precursors for the synthesis of large polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Because of the flexibility of aliphatic chains, DFT calculations of 13 C NMR chemical shifts were only calculated in the aromatic region by introducing H atoms replacing the aliphatic chains and 1 H NMR chemical shifts were neglected. A drawback of excluding aliphatic chains in the IR calculation was the loss of vibrational modes for C–H stretching and bending. Due to this significant loss of information, the aliphatic chains were included in the IR calculations. The comparison of the calculated 13 C NMR and IR parameters with the experimental spectroscopic data reveals good agreement and thus confirmed the suggested molecular structures. In addition, the electronic structure of these compounds was discussed based on HOMO–LUMO analyses.
By way of a response: Contemporary intellectual creativity versus tracing the conceptual past into the present

I restate my argument as a critique of lexical conservatism and the so-called history of the present as a history of words. This leads to a discussion of what we mean by genealogy and agency in contemporary theoretical work. I then briefly respond to some of the key points raised by the commentators.
Pollen-corrected leaf wax D/H reconstructions of northeast African hydrological changes during the late Miocene

Abstract Plant leaf wax hydrogen isotope (δDwax) reconstructions are increasingly being used to reconstruct hydrological change. This approach is based upon the assumption that variations in hydroclimatic variables, and in particular, the isotopic composition of precipitation (δDP), dominate δDwax. However modern calibration studies suggest that offsets between plant types may bias the δDwax hydrological proxy at times of vegetation change. In this study, I pair leaf wax analyses with published pollen data to quantify this effect and construct the first vegetation-corrected hydrogen isotopic evidence for precipitation (δDcorrP). In marine sediments from Deep Sea Drilling Program Site 231 in the Gulf of Aden spanning 11.4–3.8 Ma (late Miocene and earliest Pliocene), I find 77‰ swings in δDwax that correspond to pollen evidence for substantial vegetation change. Similarities between δDP and δDcorrP imply that the hydrological tracer is qualitatively robust to vegetation change. However, computed vegetation corrections can be as large as 31‰ indicating substantial quantitative uncertainty in the raw hydrological proxy. The resulting δDcorrP values quantify hydrological change and allow us to identify times considerably wetter than modern at 11.09, 7.26, 5.71 and 3.89 Ma. More generally, this novel interpretative framework builds the foundations of improved quantitative paleohydrological reconstructions with the δDwax proxy, in contexts where vegetation change may bias the plant-based proxy. The vegetation corrected paleoprecipitation reconstruction δDcorrP, represents the best available estimate as proof-of-concept, for an approach that I hope will be refined and more broadly applied.
Anemia and hyperbaric oxygenation in dogs subjected to coronary artery ligations

Abstract Coronary artery ligations were performed in anesthetized, closed-chested dogs using snares. Cardiac output was measured with an electromagnetic flowmeter. Hyperbaric oxygenation (HBO) at 2 atm abs was used and blood exchanged for a dextran solution resulting in a hemoglobin level of about 8 g/100 ml. Control groups were used to study the effect of the preparation itself and hemodilution or HBO treatment alone. Cardiac output was decreased by the preparation and further decreased by the ligations. Six of seven dogs treated with HBO and hemodilution survived versus three of eight comparable preparations in the ligation control group. Cardiac output was improved while the elevated left atrial pressure seen in the control group was not improved. All deaths were due to ventricular fibrillation except the single death in the HBO with hemodilution treatment group which was due to electrical-mechanical dissociation. The probability that this increased survival was due to chance was less than 10% ( P
Chemisorption of oxygen on zinc oxide, effect of a dc electric field☆

Electric field effect on chemisorption of oxygen on zinc oxide, discussing electron transfer mechanism
DIAL: a programming language for data intensive applications

DIAL is a problem-oriented and high-level programming language oriented towards database applications. It integrates into a unified framework database primitives and computational facilities, so that an application programmer will deal with a single coherent language. The design of DIAL is based on the premise that in order to have a meaningful impact on the construction of application software, a database programming language should eschew generality and focus on what is unique about the application domain in question. To that end, DIAL seeks to embody features that naturally express the most common and frequently recurring patterns encountered in database applications programs.A number of its features distinguish DIAL from other contemporary related efforts. Data description plays a primary role in DIAL, in that a substantial amount of application semantics is expressed in the database schema rather than in procedure definitions; to achieve this end, DIAL employs a higher-level data model (the SDM) as its data description mechanism. Facilities for conducting user-system dialogues are also embedded in the language. Specialized control structures are provided to allow for succinct and direct expression of the algorithmic structure of procedures that utilize the database. High-level mechanisms (called controllers) are used to specify an application system's required behavior in the face of multiple concurrent users and aborted transactions.DIAL has been applied to two realistic and substantial systems, a purchasing application and a job-shop scheduler. Continued validation studies of the language are underway, as are an implementation effort and the design of an allied program development system.
Nano-PTV Using Confocal Microscopy

A conventional microscopy and confocal microscopy was used to enable nano-particle tracking using a three-dimensional (3-D) diffraction image pattern caused by an optical aberration. The Point Spread Function (PSF) of a particle image is known as a function of a defocus distance from a focal plane. Using the PSF of nano-particles, particle’s x and y positions as well as z-position can be obtained. A dry objective lens (40X, 0.75NA) is used to detect diffraction patterns of 500-nm fluorescent micro-spheres suspended in water solution inside a 100-μm square micro-tube. The purposes of this presented study are to investigate experimentally the 3-D PSF of fluorescent nano-particle in thick specimen and to develop the 3-D particle tracking technique using 3-D diffraction images of conventional microscopy and CLSM.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
The electrokinetic response of surface-modified polymer latexes: Effects of grafted water-soluble polymer and heat treatment

Abstract Low-frequency dielectric spectroscopy and electrophoretic light scattering were used to test the applicability of classical electrokinetic theory to latex particles with and without surface grafted water-soluble polymer. Dielectric measurements on the “hairy” latex reveal large discrepancies between theory and experiment. At the same time, the “bare” latex exhibits qualitatively similar, but smaller, discrepancies. High temperature treatment of the latexes alters the particles and the discrepancies are reduced. The heat-treated bare latex behaves according to the classical theory; the heat-treated hairy latex exhibits greatly reduced deviations from theory. Electrophoretic mobility measurements spanning 2 decades in ionic strength show that the mobilities of the bare and hairy particles converge following heat treatment, suggesting that the surface contrast between the two particles is diminished. A mechanism involving transport processes within a hairy layer is proposed to explain the inadequacy of classical electrokinetic theory with latex particles.
The Effects of Selective Response Preparation on Corticospinal Excitability

Abstract OBJECTIVE: Both motor imagery and selective motor cues enhance performance. Motor cortex is activated during motor imagery. We wanted to learn if selective motor cueing also activates motor cortex. Methods: We gave normal right-handed subjects information about which hand to use to respond to an imperative stimulus (selective intention) or where in space an imperative stimulus would occur (selective attention). To minimize anticipatory responses, warning stimulus validity was 80%. During this choice reaction time task, we recorded magnetic motor evoked potentials. Imperative stimuli and transcranial magnetic stimulation were presented randomly to assess the effect of warning cues on reaction times and corticospinal excitability. Results: Selective intentional and attentional warning cues reduced reaction times, but neither stimulus altered motor evoked potentials. Conclusions: These results suggest that unlike motor imagery, selective intention to respond to an imperative stimulus and shifting spatial attention to an imperative stimulus do not alter corticospinal excitability.
Transferral, Transformation, and the Act of Reading in Marie de France's Bisclavret

(1992). Transferral, Transformation, and the Act of Reading in Marie de France's Bisclavret. Romance Quarterly: Vol. 39, No. 4, pp. 399-410.
Learning Self-determination: Lessons from the Literature for Work with Children and Youth with Emotional and Behavioral Disabilities

Children and youth with disabilities perform more poorly in transitional outcomes than their non-disabled peers. Programs are facing many changes because of these outcomes. Definitions are being revised, and new categories of exceptionalities are being recognized. Accountability measures are being put in place for people with disabilities. However, there is an important, current issue identified by researchers and individuals with disabilities—the issue of self-determination. This article explores how self-determination can and should be taught to children and youth with disabilities.
Postoperative hypoxemia: common, undetected, and unsuspected after bariatric surgery.

Background Patients undergoing gastric bypass are at greater than ordinary risk for postoperative respiratory insufficiency, presumably related to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and patient-controlled analgesia (PCA). This study was proposed to quantify the magnitude of the problem. Methods Fifteen patients undergoing gastric bypass had oxygen saturation (SpO2) recorded continuously, but not displayed, for 24h postoperatively; eight also had arterial blood analysis every 4h. All received narcotic PCA. SpO2 Results Mean age was 44 ± 4 y, and mean BMI was 48 ± 2kg/m2; 77% had OSA. Every patient had more than one episode with SpO2 Conclusions Severe and prolonged episodes of hypoxemia were a consistent finding, despite aggressive preoperative diagnosis and treatment of OSA, including use of CPAP postoperatively. Although some postoperative hypoventilation was expected, the degree and frequency of desaturation were surprising. No patient exhibited arterial PaCO2 evidence of hypoventilation. No patient experienced cardiopulmonary arrest/instability, in spite of severe, repeated episodes of hypoxemia. In no instance was a significant hypoxemic episode suspected or detected. Continuous pulse oximetry monitoring, with an audible alarm set for a saturation less than 90% for 10 s, would have alerted providers to 100% of significant hypoxemic episodes. Our recommendation is routinely monitoring (with alarm capability enabled) every bariatric surgical patient, to prevent such occurrence.
Stereospecific inhibition of gastrointestinal transit by κ opioid agonists in mice

Abstract Systemic administration of highly selective κ opiate agonists, U-50488H and U-69593 (3, 10 and 30 mg/kg i.p.) produced significant inhibition of the gastrointestinal transit in mice as assessed by charcoal meal test. In contrast, the (+) stereoisomer of U-50488H, U-53455E did not inhibit the gastrointestinal motility. Furthermore, the κ-selective antagonist, Mr 2266 (3 mg/kg) when administered along with the agonists, reversed the effects of the agonists. These results suggest that stereospecific κ opiate receptors are involved in inhibition of gut motility in mice.
Imaging of Shoulder Injuries in Sports Medicine: Current Protocols and Concepts

The shoulder joint has a wide breadth of derangements that can occur with sports activity. Whether the mechanism of injury is acute or the sequela of repetitive microtrauma, recent advances in musculoskeletal imaging and the understanding of athletic shoulder trauma will hopefully steer the clinician and radiologist alike to the proper diagnosis. Injury is inevitable. When it occurs, the clinician cognizant of the current concepts and protocols in the imaging of shoulder injury will be better prepared to diagnose and subsequently treat these disorders.
Diglyceride Release from Insect Fat Body: A Possible Means of Lipid Transport

Lipid is released in the form of diglyceride from the fat body of the cecropia silkmoth (Hyalophora cecropia), in both adults and pupae. This diglyceride, in the form of a complex with hemolymph protein, is the most probable means by which lipid is transported in this insect.
Research Note: Effect of Feeding Garlic Oil on Performance and Egg Yolk Cholesterol Concentration

Abstract Twenty 26-wk-old Single Comb White Leghorn pullets were divided into two groups of 10 birds. The birds were individually caged in a naturally ventilated poultry house and fed a corn and soybean meal diet with or without .02% garlic oil for two 28-day periods. Dietary garlic oil did not affect egg production, egg weight, and feed efficiency. Total plasma lipids, plasma cholesterol, and yolk cholesterol were not affected by the dietary treatment.
Screening Process for Ideal Food Legume Cover Crops in the Tropical Ecosystem: (II) Application of the Selection Method for Grain Legume Crops of the Benue River Basins of Nigeria (BRBN)

ABSTRACT There is a need to increase the utility of grain legumes in the Benue River Basins of Nigeria. The proposed method for selecting an ideal grain legume cover crop for various cropping systems was applied. An array of local and introduced grain legumes was screened for their genetic ability to overcome physical and environmental constraints, to establish quickly, to produce reasonable quantities of biomass, and to have high ability to fix N2 gas. Experimentally, selection methods were a series of stepwise processes involving field observations, field experimentations, greenhouse trials, and laboratory analysis. The results of these analyses and observations guided the classification procedure. In this paper, four crops scaled the initial screening tests. They achieved a ground cover of about 90% within 6 to 10 weeks after planting. The crops were kafanji, a local cowpea variety (Vigna unguiculata); odudu, an unimproved lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus); akidi, an indeterminate climbing common bean (Pha...
Use of Krypton for Surface Area Measurements

WE have recently discussed1 some criteria for the applicability of various gases in measuring the surface areas of solids by the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller2 method. We concluded that the use of krypton in this technique led to valid and useful results and that previous criticism of the use of this gas was unfounded. However, Thomas3 has again suggested that ‘anomalous’ Brunauer–Emmett–Teller plots obtained from krypton adsorption measurements render the use of this gas undesirable. He proposes that the occurrence of phase-changes in the adsorbed film, evidenced by discontinuities in the adsorption isotherm, are associated with these ‘anomalous’ (and presumably suspect) results.
Preclinical studies of [99mTc]DTPA-mannosyl-dextran☆ ☆

Abstract We report the preclinical testing of a synthetic receptor-binding macromolecule, [ 99m Tc]DTPA-mannosyl-dextran (36 kDa, 8 DTPA and 55 mannosyl units per dextran, K D = 0.12 nM), for sentinel node detection. Nonclinical safety studies included cardiac pharmacology safety studies, acute toxicology and pathology studies at 50 and 500 times the scaled human dose in both rats and rabbits after foot pad administration, and perivascular irritation studies in rabbits following intra-muscular administration at 100 and 1000 times the scaled human dose. Biodistribution studies in rabbits at 15 m, 1 h, and 3 h indicated that [ 99m Tc]DTPA-mannosyl-dextran cleared the hind foot pad with a biological half-life of 2.21 ± 0.27 h. Other than mild hepatocyte hypertrophy in rabbits, no abnormalities in toxicology or pathology were found. Intravenous administration had no effect on survival, any clinical observations, electrocardiograms, or blood pressures. Intramuscular injection had no effect on survival, clinical observations, injection site observations, or injection site histopathology. The estimated absorbed radiation dose to the affected breast was 0.15 mGy/MBq and the effective dose was 1.06 x 10 -2 mSv/MBq. This preclinical study demonstrates that [ 99m Tc]DTPA-mannosyl-dextran has no toxicities and has an acceptable biodistribution and radiation dose.
Nanomedicine and Cardiovascular Disease

Nanomedicine has become an important tool in the imaging and therapy of numerous diseases. This is due, in large part, to the ability to generate multifunctional nanoagents bearing combinations of targeting, diagnostic, and therapeutic moieties, allowing for the tailoring of the properties of the synthesized nanomaterials. With respect to cardiovascular disease and its sequelae, nanomedicine has the potential to detect and treat some of the leading causes of death and disability in the developed world, including atherosclerosis, thrombosis, and myocardial infarction. As such, this review focuses on some of the most poignant examples of the utility of nanomedicine in the detection and treatment of cardiovascular disease that have been recently reported.
A comparison of crayfish burrow morphologies: Triassic and Holocene fossil, paleo‐ and neo‐ichnological evidence, and the identification of their burrowing signatures

The architectural and surficial morphologies of crayfish burrows from the Upper Triassic Chinle Formation and Holocene sediments were compared in order to determine: 1) if Triassic burrows could truly be attributed to crayfish activity; 2) how comparable the burrowing mechanisms are; and 3) whether or not a common set of burrowing signatures could be identified for both ancient and modern freshwater crayfish. Materials used in this study include burrows from the members of the Upper Triassic Chinle Formation, casts of modern burrows constructed by Procambarus clarkii Hobbs and Procambarus acutus acutus (Girard) in the laboratory, and casts of naturally constructed modern burrows of Cambarus diogenes di‐ogenes (Girard). Triassic and Holocene crayfish burrow morphologies exhibit simple to complex architectures, varying degrees of branching, chamber, and chimney development. They also exhibit relatively textured surficial morphologies (bioglyphs) such as scrape and scratch marks, mud‐ and lag‐liners, knobby ...
Covalent Modification and Time-Dependent Inhibition of Human CYP2E1 by the Meta Isomer of Acetaminophen

The hypothesis that N-acetyl-m-aminophenol (AMAP), the meta isomer of acetaminophen, will covalently bind to and inhibit human CYP2E1 in a time- and NADPH-dependent manner was investigated. Liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry analysis indicated that AMAP metabolites (i.e., AMAP*) selectively and covalently modified CYP2E1 apoprotein in a ratio of 1.4:1 (AMAP*/CYP2E1) in a reconstituted system. The deconvoluted spectra of CYP2E1 apoprotein from incubations containing NADPH and AMAP displayed mass shifts of 167.2 ± 7.1 and 334.4 ± 6.5 Da, suggesting the addition of one and two hydroxylated AMAP metabolites to CYP2E1, respectively. Mass shifts in cytochrome P450 reductase, cytochrome b(5), and heme from these samples were not observed. CYP2E1 inhibition by AMAP increased with time in the presence of NADPH; a reversible inhibition component was also observed. The results support a bioactivation process that involves formation of a hydroquinone metabolite that undergoes further oxidation to a quinone, which reacts with CYP2E1 nucleophilic residues. The data are consistent with evidence from previous studies that identified hydroxylated AMAP glutathione conjugates collected from mice and indicate that cysteine residues are the most likely sites for adduct formation. This study reports the first direct evidence of AMAP-derived hydroquinone metabolites bound to human CYP2E1.
Asymptotic quantization analysis of high order Gauss-Markov process

We address the problem of analyzing several source coding systems for a continuous Gauss-Markov process of any order. By using fine quantization approximations we derive expressions for the time-average smoothed error. Analytical bounds are derived for the time-average smoothed error for the different schemes. The tradeoff between the resolution of the process quantizers, the derivative quantizers and the sampling rate is shown both analytically and experimentally. >
Regulation of Lipid-Droplet Transport by the Perilipin Homolog LSD2

Summary Background: Motor-driven transport along microtubules is a primary mechanism for moving and positioning organelles. How such transport is regulated remains poorly understood. For lipid droplets in Drosophila embryos, three distinct phases of transport can be distinguished. To identify factors regulating this transport, we biochemically purified droplets from individual phases and used 2D gel analysis to search for proteins whose amount on droplets changes as motion changes. Results: By mass spectrometry, we identified one such protein as LSD2. Similar to its mammalian counterpart Perilipin, LSD2 is responsible for regulating lipid homeostasis. Using specific antibodies, we confirmed that LSD2 is present on embryonic lipid droplets. We find that lack of LSD2 causes a specific transport defect: Droplet distribution fails to undergo the dramatic changes characteristic of the wild-type. This defect is not due to a complete failure of the core transport machinery—individual droplets still move bidirectionally along microtubules with approximately normal velocities and kinetics. Rather, detailed biophysical analysis suggests that developmental control of droplet motion is lost. We show that LSD2 is multiply phosphorylated in a developmentally controlled manner. LSD2 phosphorylation depends on the transacting signal Halo, and LSD2 can physically interact with the lipid-droplet-associated coordinator Klar, identifying LSD2 as a central player in the mechanisms that control droplet motion. Conclusions: LSD2 appears to represent a new class of regulators, a protein that transduces regulatory signals to a separable core motor machinery. In addition, the demonstration that LSD2 regulates both transport and lipid metabolism suggests a link between lipid-droplet motion and lipid homeostasis.
Genome-Wide Linkage Analysis Reveals Evidence of Multiple Regions That Influence Variation in Plasma Lipid and Apolipoprotein Levels Associated With Risk of Coronary Heart Disease

Results of genome-wide linkage analyses to identify chromosomal regions that influence interindividual variation in plasma lipid and apolipoprotein levels in the Rochester, Minn, population are reported. Analyses were conducted for total cholesterol (total-C), triglycerides (TGs), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), apolipoprotein A-I, apolipoprotein A-II, apolipoprotein B, apolipoprotein C-II, apolipoprotein C-III, apolipoprotein E, the total-C/HDL-C ratio, and the TG/HDL-C ratio. Genotypes were measured for 373 genome-wide marker loci on 1484 individuals distributed among 232 multigeneration pedigrees sampled without regard to health status. LOD scores and estimates of additive genetic variance associated with map locations were obtained by using the variance-component method of linkage analysis. No evidence of linkage with genes influencing variation in age served as a negative control. Plasma apolipoprotein E levels and the apolipoprotein E gene served as a positive control (LOD score 4.20). Evidence (LOD score >2.00) was provided that was suggestive of a gene or genes on chromosomes 4 and 5 influencing variation in the apolipoprotein A-II level, on chromosome 12 influencing variation in the apolipoprotein A-I level, and on chromosome 17 influencing variation of total-C/HDL-C. These analyses provide new information about genomic regions in humans that influence interindividual variation in plasma lipid and apolipoprotein levels and serve as a basis for further fine-mapping studies to identify new genes involved in lipid metabolism.
Current measurement for dynamic I/sub dd/ test

A recently developed dynamic I/sub dd/ test parameter, the Energy Consumption Ratio (ECR), is based on the average current drawn by a circuit. Very fast measurement equipment is needed to measure the exact supply current transients in high-speed circuits. However, the ECR requires the average value of the transient supply current and not the exact transient. Common sampling and filtering techniques can be combined to greatly reduce measurement cost. Three approaches to combine filtering and different sampling techniques are studied in this paper. Theoretical analysis based on first order approximation and simulation results for these approaches are also presented.
Molding mineral within microporous hydrogels by a polymer-induced liquid-precursor (PILP) process.

Natural biominerals often have exquisite morphologies, where the cells exercise a high degree of crystallographic control through secretion of biological macromolecules and regulation of ion transport. One important example is the sea urchin spine. It has recently been shown to be formed through deposition of a transient amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC) precursor phase that later transforms to single-crystalline calcite, ultimately forming an elaborate three-dimensional microporous calcium carbonate structure with interconnected pores. Macromolecules associated with the mineral phase are thought to play a key role in regulating this transformation. The work described here mimics this type of morphological control by molding an amorphous calcium carbonate precursor within a porous poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA) hydrogel that has been prepared as a negative replica from the void space of an urchin spine. Using an acidic biomimetic polymer as a process-directing agent, we show that polyaspartic acid induces amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC) nanoparticles, which have fluidic character and therefore are able to infiltrate the PHEMA hydrogel replica and coalesce into the convoluted morphology that replicates the original microporous structure of the sea urchin spine. By molding calcium carbonate into a complex morphology at room temperature, using a precursor process that is induced by a biomimetic acidic macromolecule, the PILP process is a useful in vitro model for examining different aspects of the amorphous-to-crystalline transformation process that is apparently used by a variety of biomineralizing organisms. For example, although we were able to replicate the overall morphology of the spine, it had polycrystalline texture; further studies with this system will focus on controlling the nucleation event, which may help to elucidate how such a convoluted structure can be prepared with single-crystalline texture via an amorphous precursor. Through a better understanding of the mechanisms used by organisms to regulate crystal properties, such biomimetic processes can lead to the synthesis of materials with superior electronic, mechanical, and optical properties.
Fossil hominin ulnae and the forelimb of Paranthropus.

The discovery of Pan in the Middle Pleis- tocene deposits of the Kapthurin Formation of the Tugen Hills (McBrearty and Jablonski: Nature 437 (2005) 105- 108) inspires new interest in the search for other chim- panzee fossils in the East African Rift Valley. Cranio- dental evidence of an eastward excursion of chimpanzee populations in the Plio-Pleistocene goes undetected in other hominin sites, but one enigmatic postcranial fossil, the Olduvai Hominid 36 ulna, has many chimp-like fea- tures. Analyses by Aiello et al. (Aiello et al.: Am J Phys Anthropol 109 (1999) 89-110) reveal that it is similar to extant Pan in some respects, but it also has unique traits not seen in other hominoid species. They refer it to Para- nthropus boisei. In this study, we reassess the affinities of OH 36 using a different data set that includes more recently discovered hominin fossils including those attributed to Paranthropus. Despite its superficial resem- blance to modern Pan, our results agree with those of Aiello et al. (Aiello et al.: Am J Phys Anthropol 109 (1999) 89-110) that OH 36 is distinctly different from modern chimpanzees. By default, it is reasonable to assign this specimen to P. boisei, but it is not at all simi- lar to other ulnae referred to this genus. Ulnae attributed to Paranthropus from South Africa, Kenya, and Ethiopia are morphologically more heterogeneous than those within species of large-bodied Hominoidea. Although there are many apparent shared derived traits justifying a monophyletic Paranthropus clade, most if not all of these traits are related to a single functional complex (hyper- mastication) that may have evolved in parallel and thereby constituting a paraphyletic group of species. Am J Phys Anthropol 134:209-218, 2007. V C 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Functional constipation and outlet delay: A population-based study

Abstract Background: Chronic constipation may result from many mechanisms including colonic inertia or rectosigmoid outlet delay, but risk factors for constipation in the community are poorly defined. The prevalence of and predictors for symptoms consistent with functional constipation and outlet delay were estimated. Methods: An age- and gender-stratified random sample of 1,021 residents of Olmsted County, MN, aged 30–64 years, was mailed a valid self-report questionnaire; 835 responded (82%). These respondents were mailed a second questionnaire 12–20 months later that gathered data on symptoms compatible with functional constipation and outlet delay; 690 responded (83%). Results: Self-reported constipation did not reliably identify functional constipation or outlet delay. The overall age- and gender-adjusted prevalences (per 100) of functional constipation and outlet delay were 19.2 (95% confidence interval [CI], 16.1–22.3) and 11.0 (95% CI, 8.7–13.3), respectively. Outlet delay but not functional constipation was more frequent in women. After adjusting for age, gender, and other symptoms, an increased usage of aspirin was associated with functional constipation but not outlet delay. Conclusions: In apparently healthy middle-aged persons, approximately 1 in 5 have symptoms compatible with functional constipation, and 1 in 10 may experience outlet delay, but these groups correspond poorly with self-reported constipation.