cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Dishevelled signalling pathways during Xenopus development

Abstract Background Recent studies have demonstrated that the Wnt, Frizzled and Notch proteins are involved in a variety of developmental processes in fly, worm, frog and mouse embryos. The Dishevelled (Dsh) protein is required for Drosophila cells to respond to Wingless, Notch and Frizzled signals, but the molecular mechanisms of its action are not well understood. Using the ability of a mutant form of the Xenopus homologue of Dsh (Xdsh) to block Wnt and Dsh signalling in a model system, this work attempts to clarify the role of the endogenous Xdsh during the early stages of vertebrate development. Results A mutant Xdsh (Xdd1) with an internal deletion of the conserved PDZ/DHR domain was constructed. Overexpression of Xdd1 mRNA in ventral blastomeres of Xenopus embryos strongly inhibited induction of secondary axes by the wild-type Xdsh and Xwnt8 mRNAs, but did not affect the axis-inducing ability of β -catenin mRNA. These observations suggest that Xdd1 acts as a dominant-negative mutant. Dorsal expression of Xdd1 caused severe posterior truncations in the injected embryos, whereas wild-type Xdsh suppressed this phenotype. Xdd1 blocked convergent extension movements in ectodermal explants stimulated with mesoderm-inducing factors and in dorsal marginal zone explants, but did not affect mesoderm induction and differentiation. Conclusions A vertebrate homologue of Dsh is a necessary component of Wnt signal transduction and functions upstream of β -catenin. These findings also establish a requirement for the PDZ domain in signal transduction by Xdsh, and suggest that endogenous Xdsh controls morphogenetic movements in the embryo.
Dispersion of fine and ultrafine powders through surface modification and rapid expansion

Improved dispersion of fine ( 10 μm where attrition is minimum, and second, suitable for finer particles including inhalable (2–5 μm), where simultaneous micronization and surface modification is performed. In addition to improved dispersibility, surface modification is found to add significant corresponding benefits such as improved flowability, aeratibility or fluidizability and packing densities, leading to potential cost savings in handling and storage. Dispersibility of surface modified fine powders is assessed using Sympatec/Rodos through dispersion pressure titration. Flowability and bulk density improvements as corroborative measures are assessed using Hosokawa Powder Tester and FT4 Freeman Powder Rheometer. The indices such as flow function coefficient, angle of repose, bulk density and aeration are measured. For ultrafine powders (nano-particles <100 nm), where surface modification is not applicable, deagglomeration via rapid expansion of high pressure or supercritical suspensions (REHPS) of nano-particle aggregates is considered and shown to be highly effective for their dispersion. The size distribution of fragmented nano-powders is characterized by online Scanning Mobility Particle Spectrometer (SMPS) and by offline Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). SMPS and SEM measurements indicate that the average agglomerate sizes are well below 1 μm, consistent with the length scales observed in our complementary REHPS mixing experiments using alumina and silica nano-powders. In summary, industrially relevant powder dispersion approaches are presented, applicable to both fine and ultrafine powders.
Designing wetlands for controlling coal mine drainage: an ecologic-economic modelling approach

Abstract A simulation model is developed of the efficiency and economics of an application of ecotechnology — using a created wetland to receive and treat coal mine drainage. The model examines the role of loading rates of iron on treatment efficiencies and the economic costs of wetland versus conventional treatment of mine drainage. It is calibrated with data from an Ohio, U.S.A., wetland site and verified from multi-site data from Tennessee and Alabama, U.S.A. The model predicts that iron removal is closely tied to loading rates and that the cost of wetland treatment is less than that of conventional for iron loading rates of approximately 20–25 g Fe m −2 day −1 and removal efficiencies less than 85%. A wetland to achieve these conditions would cost approximately US$50 000 per year according to the model. When higher loading rates exist and higher efficiencies are needed, wetland systems are more costly than conventional treatment.
Ulnar nerve palsy associated with fracture of the distal radius.

Objective To describe the clinical features and outcome of a series of patients with complete motor and sensory ulnar nerve palsy associated with a fracture of the distal radius. Design Retrospective case series. Setting Level 1 trauma center. Patients/participants Five adults with acute complete motor and sensory ulnar nerve palsy associated with fracture of the distal radius were treated during a 2 year period. There were 3 men and 2 women, with an average age of 42 years (range, 33 to 56 years). All 5 distal radius fractures were high energy and widely displaced. Three patients had an associated ulna fracture (2 styloid, 1 styloid and distal diaphysis), and 1 had a complete triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) avulsion from the distal ulna (associated with an open wound). Two patients had open fractures. Intervention Open reduction and internal fixation of the distal radius fracture in 4 patients and external fixation in 1 patient. Three patients had exploration and release of the ulnar nerve because it was associated with an acute carpal tunnel syndrome. Main outcome measurements Recovery of ulnar nerve function. Results At an average follow-up of 17 months, 4 patients had complete or near-complete recovery of ulnar nerve function. One patient had moderate motor and mild sensory dysfunction. Conclusions Acute ulnar nerve palsy may occur in association with high-energy, widely displaced fractures of the distal radius. These are usually neurapraxic injuries that recover to normal or near-normal strength and sensation. We recommend exploration and release of a complete ulnar nerve palsy associated with a fracture of the distal radius fracture when there is an open wound or an acute carpal tunnel syndrome, and observation without exploration otherwise.
Ventilatory effects of clonidine alone and in the presence of alfentanil, in human volunteers

Clonidine, an alpha 2-adrenergic agonist, can potentiate opioid-induced analgesia. In a double-blind placebo-controlled study in human volunteers, we sought to determine whether clonidine also potentiates opioid-induced respiratory depression. Hypercapnic ventilatory responses (minute ventilation, mean inspiratory flow rate, and mouth occlusion pressure) were measured in five healthy male volunteers on two separate occasions (with or without clonidine, approximately 3.5 micrograms.kg-1 orally) under the following conditions: baseline, 2 h after clonidine/placebo (alfentanil concentration of 0), and during computer-controlled alfentanil infusions to approximate plasma concentrations of 5, 10, 20, 40, and 80 ng.ml-1. Plasma alfentanil concentrations were measured before and after each rebreathing test, and clonidine concentrations were measured after each rebreathing test. The end-tidal CO2 (PET(CO2)) was measured continuously. Data were analyzed by repeated-measures analysis of variance. The PET(CO2) and measured concentrations of alfentanil were included as covariates, and a compound symmetry error analysis was assumed. Statistical significance was achieved when P less than 0.05. For minute ventilation, mean inspiratory flow rate, and mouth occlusion pressure there was a statistically significant relationship to the covariates of PET(CO2) and plasma alfentanil concentration. Clonidine, when compared to placebo, caused a small but significant depression of mean inspiratory flow rate. There was similarly a small, but statistically insignificant, depression of minute ventilation by clonidine. The mouth occlusion pressure was not affected by clonidine treatment. Clonidine treatment did not potentiate alfentanil-induced respiratory depression. Although the combination of an opioid and an alpha 2-adrenergic agonist may act synergistically for the analgesic response, there is no synergistic effect by this drug combination on respiratory depression.
Media Violence Effects: Confirmed Truth or Just Another X-File?

This article presents a critical review of the extant literature on media violence effects on violent criminal behavior. Problems within the media violence literature that limit the causal conclusion appropriate to this body of literature are discussed. It is argued that, contrary to common belief, the current literature does not provide ample support for the conclusion that media violence causes aggressive or violent behavior. This article offers positive suggestions for the future of media violence studies. Suggestions for the role of forensic psychologists in communicating media violence research information to courts and the public are also provided.
Population-based linkage of AIDS and cancer registries: importance of linkage algorithm.

Background This study evaluates linkage algorithms used in 1997 for Los Angeles County by the AIDS-Cancer Match Registry to estimate the risk of cancer among people with HIV/AIDS. Methods In 2001, a linkage between the Los Angeles County cancer and AIDS registries using a five-pass algorithm was compared with the 1997 linkage results that used a two-pass algorithm. Results The five-pass linkage detected all of the previously identified matches (6571) as well as another 431 (6.2%), which had been missed. Conclusions Record linkage methodologic decisions can markedly affect matching sensitivity and specificity. It is probable that the AIDS-Cancer Match Registry two-pass linkage has underestimated the risks of some cancers among people with AIDS.
A model proteoliposomal system for proline transport using a purified proline carrier protein from Mycobacterium phlei

Abstract The proteoliposomes prepared from purified proline carrier protein isolated from membrane vesicles of Mycobacterium phlei exhibited an uptake of proline, which was dependent upon a proton gradient generated across the lipid bilayer. Although a proton gradient was generated by the reduction of the entrapped ferricyanide by ascorbate oxidation with benzoquinone serving as a lipid soluble hydrogen carrier, transport of proline was dependent on the addition of sodium ion. The movement of sodium and proline across the artificial membrane resulted in a simultaneous collapse of the proton gradient.
A comparison of surveillance definitions for urinary tract infections (UTI) in long-term care

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Consensus definitions for infection control surveillance in long-term care were published in 1991 (McGeer). These definitions rely on clinical symptoms and minimal laboratory criteria. However, with increasing antibiotic resistance in LTCF, there has been increased emphasis on culturing patients. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) surveillance definitions are laboratory and symptom based and used primarily in acute care facilities. In facilities with both acute care and long-term care components, it is unclear which definitions are most appropriate. This study sought to compare the two sets of definitions for UTIs in a long-term care facility with access to both laboratory and radiology support. METHODS: The study was conducted in a 120-bed Veterans Affairs extended-care facility physically attached to an acute care hospital. Laboratory services were shared with the acute care hospital. A standardized chart review was conducted on all long-term patients with a urine culture sent to microbiology. Each episode was evaluated by both the McGeer and CDC criteria. Geriatric nurse practitioners and rotating medical interns and residents under supervision of a geriatric fellow and attending provided clinical care. RESULTS: Over a 14-month period, 312 non-sterile urine cultures from 146 patients were reviewed. Clinicians treated 116 for UTI, of these 57 (49%) did not meet either criteria, of the remaining 59, 32 met both sets of criteria, 21 met McGeer only, and 4 met CDC only. In 15 patients, a clinical indicator not included in either definition was elevated glucose or increased difficulty maintaining control of blood glucose level. CONCLUSION: Almost half (49%) of the treated UTI met did not meet either surveillance definition. In this population, even with the ready availability of laboratory support, the McGeer definition identified more of the UTIs than did the CDC surveillance definitions.
Spica MRI after closed reduction for developmental dysplasia of the hip

Spica MRI is a fast and effective tool to assess morphology after closed reduction for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) without the need for sedation. The multiplanar capabilities allow depiction of coronal and axial reduction of the hips. Due to MRI’s inherent ability to delineate soft tissue structures, both intrinsic and extrinsic obstacles to failed reduction may be identified. Technical and interpretative challenges of spica MRI are discussed.
Translating clinical research into practice: a randomized controlled trial of exercise and incontinence care with nursing home residents.

OBJECTIVES: To examine clinical outcomes and describe the staffing requirements of an incontinence and exercise intervention. DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial with blinded assessments of outcomes at three points over 8 months. SETTING: Four nursing homes. PARTICIPANTS: Two hundred fifty-six incontinent residents. INTERVENTION: Research staff provided the intervention, which integrated incontinence care and exercise every 2 hours from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 5 days a week. MEASUREMENTS: Average and maximum distance walked or wheeled, level of assistance required to stand, maximum pounds lifted by arms, fecal and urinary incontinence frequency, and time required to implement intervention. RESULTS: Intervention residents maintained or improved performance whereas the control group's performance declined on 14 of 15 outcome measures. Repeated measures analysis of variance group-by-time significance levels ranged from P < .0001 to .05. The mean time required to implement the intervention each time care was provided was 20.7 ± 7.2 minutes. We estimate that a work assignment of approximately five residents to one aide would be necessary to provide this intervention. CONCLUSIONS: The incontinence care and exercise intervention resulted in significant improvement for most residents, and most who could be reliably interviewed expressed a preference for such care. Fundamental changes in the staffing of most nursing homes will be necessary to translate efficacious clinical interventions into everyday practice.
Observation of nanosecond transient states in laser-induced reactions of pyridoxal 5′-phosphate

Abstract A nanosecond laser-flash photolysis system is described. The intensity of the 5-ns resolved pulses of the analyzing flash can be digitized with 0.03% precision. As a result, the electronic absorption spectra of transients in 60-μl samples of 10 −4 m enzyme have been determined.
3D ear modeling and recognition from video sequences using shape from shading

We describe a novel approach for 3D ear biometrics using video. A series of frames are extracted from a video clip and the region-of-interest (ROI) in each frame is independently reconstructed in 3D using Shape from Shading (SFS). The resulting 3D models are then registered using the Iterative Closest Point (ICP) algorithm. We iteratively consider each model in the series as a reference and calculate the similarity between the reference model and every model in the series using a similarity cost function. Cross validation is performed to assess the relative fidelity of each 3D model. The model that demonstrates the greatest overall similarity is determined to be the most stable 3D model and is subsequently enrolled in the database. Experiments are conducted using a gallery set of 402 video clips and a probe of 60 video clips. The results (95.0% rank-1 recognition rate) indicate that the proposed approach can produce recognition rates comparable to systems that use 3D range data. To the best of our knowledge, we are the first to develop a 3D ear biometric system that obtains 3D ear structure from a video sequence.
A System For Converting a Carousel Projector Into a Stimulus Projector

projector for external control of the shutter mechanism. · ($7,865); DEC LINC·8 computer with 4k 12-bit memory, multiplexed inputs, oscilloscope display, dual magnetic tape unit, analog-to-digital converter, multiplier channels on teleprinter-advertised as in near-perfect condition ($21,450). LEBEX lists other DEC computers also. One Hewlett Packard machine is cited, the 2114A. This computer has 8k of 16-bit memory, duplex register, ASR-33 Teletype, and includes Fortran, Assembly, Basic, and Diagnostic software. The 2114A is priced at $14,500, $2,700 under list. A catalog covering used computers and other equipment for sale or rent is available from Laboratory Instrument Exchange, Inc., 301 East Erie Street, Chicago, I1linois 6061l.
How clinicians should use the diagnostic laboratory in a changing medical world

In developed countries, clinicians are faced with a plethora of diagnostic tests to apply to patients to guide their clinical management. The quality, effectiveness, and efficiency of patient care should be foremost in the clinician's mind. Laboratory directors should make every effort to guide clinicians in appropriate laboratory test ordering, interpretation, and resulting actions. Medicine, being at its center a moral enterprise grounded in a covenant of trust, and laboratory medicine being a subset of medicine, must first care and advocate for the patient, and consider clinical outcomes as most important.
An Analysis of a Spent Fuel Transportation Cask Under Severe Fire Accident Conditions

Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations Part 71 section 73(c)(4), (10 CFR 71.73(c)(4)) requires that transportation packages used to ship radioactive material must be designed to resist an engulfing fire of a 30 minute duration and prevent release of radioactive material to the environment. In July, 2001, a derailed train carrying hazardous materials caught fire in a railroad tunnel in Baltimore, Maryland, and burned for several days. Although the occurrence of a fire of such duration during the shipment of spent nuclear fuel is unlikely, questions were raised about the performance of spent nuclear fuel casks under conditions similar to those experienced in the Baltimore tunnel fire incident. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission evaluates the performance of spent fuel transportation casks under accident conditions. The National Transportation Safety Board is responsible for investigating railroad accidents and identifying the probable cause(s) and offers recommendations for safety improvements. They are currently investigating the Baltimore tunnel fire accident. This paper assesses the performance of a spent fuel transportation cask with a welded canister under severe fire conditions. The paper describes the analytic model used for the assessment and presents a discussion of the preliminary results.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Preparing Teachers to Design Instruction for Deep Understanding in Middle School Earth Science

This study compared the efficacy of 3 approaches to professional development in middle school Earth science organized around the principles of Understanding by Design (Wiggins & McTighe, 1998) in a sample of 53 teachers from a large urban district. Teachers were randomly assigned to a control group or to 1 of 3 conditions that varied with respect to the conceptions of ideal curriculum use embedded within. Teachers either designed units of instruction, adopted units developed by expert Earth scientists and Earth science educators, or learned principled ways to adapt expert-designed curricula. Relying on data from surveys and independent ratings of naturally occurring teacher assignments, we used hierarchical linear modeling techniques to analyze the impacts of the professional development on how teachers planned and coordinated instruction. Our results suggest that to realize positive effects on both their planning and coordination of instruction, teachers need access to high-quality curriculum materials a...
Beiträge zur Chemie der Si–N‐Bindung, VII. N,N′‐alkylierte und ‐arylierte Cyclodisilazane

Cyclodisilazane mit alkyl- oder aryl-substituiertem Stickstoff konnen aus den N, N′-Diorgano-silandiaminen I sowohl uber die zweifache Metallierung von I und anschliessender Reaktion rnit Diorganosiliciumdichlorid als auch direkt durch deren Pyrolyse hergestellt werden :
A possible utilization of the mice forced swim test for modeling manic-like increase in vigor and goal-directed behavior.

Abstract Introduction The lack of appropriate animal models for bipolar disorder (BPD) is a major factor hindering the research of its pathophysiology and the development of new drug treatments. In line with the notion that BPD might represent a heterogeneous group of disorders, it was suggested that models for specific domains of BPD should be developed. The present study tested the possible utilization of the forced swim test (FST) as a model for the heightened vigor and goal-directed behavior domain of mania, using mice with low baseline immobility. Methods Black Swiss mice were previously identified to have low immobility in the FST but similar spontaneous activity levels compared with several other mice strains. Thus, spontaneous activity and behavior in the FST were evaluated following treatment with the mood stabilizer valproate and the antidepressant imipramine. Results The results indicated that valproate increased immobility in the FST without affecting spontaneous activity whereas imipramine had no effect in the FST but increased spontaneous activity. Discussion These findings suggest that in mice with low baseline immobility scores, the FST might be a useful model for the elevated vigor and goal-directed behavior domain of mania. As such, this test might be well integrated into a battery of models for different domains of BPD.
Diabetes and hypertension: blood pressure control and consequences.

Abstract Diabetes and hypertension are the leading causes of end-stage renal disease in the Western world. Inadequate control of both systemic and glomerular capillary pressure in diabetics results in increasing hydraulic force and mechanical stretch on the glomeruli, with a subsequent increase in proteinuria and ultimately glomerulosclerosis. Therapeutic strategies that combine systemic and glomerular capillary pressure reduction result in reduced proteinuria and are ideal for preventing renal injury. Both experimental and clinical studies have demonstrated the importance of intensive control of blood pressure, preferably to systolic blood pressure (SBP) ≤ 130 mm Hg to delay progression of renal disease. In particular, drugs that block the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) offer the advantage of consistently reducing glomerular capillary pressure and proteinuria relative to changes in systemic blood pressure. This combination of events is ideal for delaying progression of renal disease. However, the use of drugs that block the RAS is not a surrogate for maintaining tight control of blood pressure.
Probing specific DNA sequences with luminescent semiconductor quantum dots

The development of new fluorescent probes has impacted many areas of research such as medical diagnostics, high-speed drug screening, and basic molecular biology. Main limitations to traditional organic fluorophores are their relatively weak intensities, short life times (eg., photobleaching), and broad emission spectra. The desire for more intense fluorescent probes with higher quality photostability and narrow emission wavelengths has led to the development and utilization of semiconductor quantum dots as a new label. In this work, we have modified semicondutor quantum dots (QD's) with synthetic oligonucleotides to probe a specific DNA target sequence both in solution as well as immobilized on a solid substrate. In the first approach, specific target sequences are detected in solution by using short oligonucleotide probes, which are covalently linked to semiconductor quantum dots. In the second approach, DNA target sequences are covalently attached to a glass substrate and detected using oligonucleotides linked to semiconductor quantum dots.
Mathematical modeling of liquid-rocket combustion instability

A mathematical model of liquid-rocket combustion instability is developed which is of intermediate complexity. The application of the theory is illustrated by three examples involving velocity-sensitive combustion instability.
Photochemical fate of pharmaceuticals in the environment: Naproxen, diclofenac, clofibric acid, and ibuprofen

The aqueous photochemistry of four pharmaceutical compounds detected in surface waters (naproxen, diclofenac, ibuprofen, and clofibric acid) was investigating in purified (Milli-Q) water and in Mississippi River water (MRW). Both direct photolysis and hydroxyl radical-mediated indirect photolysis (using a combination of probe and quencher experiments) were studied. Singlet oxygenation was also investigated for naproxen. Second-order rate constants for reaction with hydroxyl radical were determined using Fenton’s reagent. Naproxen was rapidly transformed via direct photolysis in sunlight in both Milli-Q and MRW. The radical quencher isopropyl alcohol (IPA), had a similar effect in both systems, and this effect was interpreted as a reaction of a carboxyl radical intermediate of naproxen. Diclofenac was found to undergo rapid direct photolysis under sunlight, confirming the results of prior studies. Addition of IPA led to more rapid transformation, possibly due to formation of other radical species or photoreduction with IPA serving as the H-source. When irradiated under natural sunlight, slow direct photolysis of clofibric acid is observed in Milli-Q water, and a combination of direct photolysis and radical mediated indirect processes appear responsible for clofibric acid photolysis in MRW. The dominant photochemical loss process for ibuprofen irradiated with a medium pressure Hg-vapor lamp was identified as reaction with photo-generated radicals. These results suggest that photolytic processes are important removal mechanisms for pharmaceutical compounds discharged into sunlit surface waters.
Purification and characterization of NADPH-cytochrome c (P450) reductase from the house fly, Musca domestica.

1. 1. NADPH-cytochrome c (P450) reductase was purified 460-fold from microsomes of whole house flies. 2. 2. FAD and FMN were present in about equimolar amounts. 3. 3. The molecular weight was in the range of 65,000–70,000. 4. 4. The 2′-AMP binding site was very weak in the house fly reductase. 5. 5. The enzyme appeared to be a necessary component of house fly cytochrome P450 catalyzed reactions.
Training Pilots for Collision Avoidance Within a Realistic Operating Context

The traffic alert and collision avoidance system has been implemented to reduce the number of midair collisions. Pilot compliance to traffic alert and collision avoidance system resolution advisories is mandated unless the pilot feels it would conflict with safety. Thus, pilots’ responses hinge on their assessment of the situation during the time period leading up to and spanning a traffic alert and collision avoidance system resolution advisory, including assessment of cues that conflict with traffic alert and collision avoidance system guidance. However, current training programs generally do not incorporate a realistic operating context and represent traffic alert and collision avoidance system advisories as isolated events. Furthermore, in the presence of conflicting traffic alert and collision avoidance system guidance and traffic information, pilots have reported confusion about what traffic alert and collision avoidance system advised, as well as disagreement with and noncompliance to resolution ad...
Physiological doses of Epinephrine in the human: Chronotropic but not hyperglycemic or catecholaminotropic

Single physiological doses of epinephrine did not affect the blood sugar level of human volunteers though they caused a marked tachycardia that was accompanied by a strong transient sensation, typically described as fullness in the chest. Epinephrine did not cause the release of norepinephrine and/or dopamine in man, in contrast to three other vertebrates (lamprey, eel, and rat). In the human, as in the rat and cyclostomes, the glycemic effect of epinephrine occurs only during stress and/or unphysiological conditions, while the chronotropic effects are probably physiological from cyclostomes to man.
Enterohepatic distribution of carnitine in developing piglets: relation to glucagon and insulin.

ABSTRACT: L-Carnitine plays a crucial role in the perinatal transition from carbohydrate to lipid-derived energy. To examine the potential contribution of assimilated dietary carnitine to the elevated hepatic concentrations in newborns, we measured carnitine concentrations in sow milk, jejunum, and liver, and in vitro jejunal carnitine transport in piglets aged 1–36 d. Hepatic and sow milk total carnitine concentrations peaked soon after birth and declined with age (p = 0.035 and 0.026, respectively). Although jejunal total carnitine concentrations remained stable, jejunal carnitine flux was higher at 2 d of age than in older piglets. To examine the possible signals that regulate hepatic carnitine, portal enteroinsular hormones were measured by RIA. Portal glucagon (p = 0.0006), insulin (p = 0.0001), and glucagon:insulin ratio (p = 0.037) were related to age. Portal glucagon was highest in newborns and during weaning, whereas insulin increased progressively with age; the portal glucagon:insulin ratio, like hepatic carnitine, peaked soon after birth and fell with age. A multiple regression analysis indicated a positive association between glucagon and hepatic carnitine and a negative one between insulin and hepatic carnitine (R = 0.802, p = 0.001). An overall pattern of elevated dietary carnitine levels and increased small intestinal absorption and hepatic accumulation of carnitine is noted in early development. The finding of a similar pattern in glucagon-to-insulin ratio suggests that both hormones may participate in the regulation of enterohepatic carnitine distribution in newborns.
Weingarten surfaces and nonlinear partial differential equations

The sine-Gordon equation has been known for a long time as the equation satisfied by the angle between the two asymptotic lines on a surface inR 3 with constant Gauss curvature −1. In this paper, we consider the following question: Does any other soliton equation have a similar geometric interpretation? A method for finding all the equations that have such an interpretation using Weingarten surfaces inR 3 is given. It is proved that the sine-Gordon equation is the only partial differential equation describing a class of Weingarten surfaces inR 3 and having a geometricso(3)-scattering system. Moreover, it is shown that the elliptic Liouville equation and the elliptic sinh-Gordon equation are the only partial differential equations describing classes of Weingarten surfaces inR 3 and having geometricso(3,C)-scattering systems.
Middle ear fluid histamine and leukotriene B4 in acute otitis media: effect of antihistamine or corticosteroid treatment.

Objective: Two potent mediators of acute inflammation, histamine and leukotriene B4 (LTB4), have been shown to play important roles in the pathogenesis and clinical course of acute otitis media (AOM) in children. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of adjuvant drugs, antihistamine and corticosteroid, in reduction of the levels of histamine and LTB4 in the middle ear and their ability to improve outcomes of AOM. Methods: Eighty children with AOM (aged 3 months to 6 years) were enrolled in a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled study. All children received one dose of intramuscular ceftriaxone and were randomly assigned to receive either chlorpheniramine maleate (0.35 mg/kg per day) and/or prednisolone (2 mg/kg per day) or placebos three times a day for 5 days. Tympanocentesis was performed at enrollment and after 5 days of adjuvant drug treatment. MEFs were collected for bacterial and viral studies and histamine and LTB4 levels. The subjects were followed for the duration of middle ear effusion or up to 3 months. Results: Histamine or LTB4 levels in the MEF after 5 days of treatment were not significantly reduced by adjuvant drug treatment. However, subjects receiving corticosteroid had a lower rate of treatment failure during the first 2 weeks and shorter duration of middle ear effusion. Conclusions: Five day of antihistamine or corticosteroid treatment does not reduce the levels of histamine or leukotriene B4 in the MEF of children with AOM. Positive clinical outcomes of AOM cases associated with corticosteroid treatment needs to be confirmed in a larger clinical trial of children with intact tympanic membranes, who do not receive tympanocentesis.
Classical high-energy scattering in the abelian Higgs model

Abstract We describe numerical simulations of classical high-energy scattering in the (1 + 1)-dimensional abelian Higgs model. We find that non-linear effects become weaker at high energies, and that collisions of “single particle” initial states never lead to baryon-number violating events.
Bäcklund transformations and local conservation laws for principal chiral fields

Abstract We construct a parametric Backlund transformation for principal chiral fields, which can then be used to derive local conservation laws.
Relation of coronary artery disease and cerebrovascular disease with atherosclerosis of the thoracic aorta in the general population

The association between clinical coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, and aortic atherosclerosis has not been examined in the general population. Transesophageal echocardiography was performed in 581 subjects, a random sample of the Olmsted County (Minnesota) population aged ≥45 years, participating in the Stroke Prevention: Assessment of Risk in a Community (SPARC) study. The frequency and severity of atherosclerosis of the thoracic aorta were determined in the population and the association between clinical coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, and aortic atherosclerosis was examined. Previous myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, and coronary artery bypass surgery were significantly associated with aortic atherosclerosis, adjusting for age and gender (p ≤0.01). Among subjects with atherosclerosis, these manifestations were associated with complex atherosclerosis (plaques >4-mm thick, ulcerated plaques, or mobile debris), adjusting for age and gender (p 0.2). Thus, coronary artery disease is strongly associated with aortic atherosclerosis and complex atherosclerosis in the general population. Cerebrovascular disease is weakly associated with aortic atherosclerosis, thereby questioning the overall importance of aortic atherosclerosis in the pathogenesis of cerebrovascular events in the general population.
Obtaining Interval Estimates of Policy Impacts From Interrupted Time Series

The absence of a means for obtaining confidence intervals for the impact of an intervention represents a serious gap in the literature on the analysis of interrupted time-series designs. In this article, an approximate procedure for constructing such confidence intervals is developed both in general terms and for two specific forms of intervention effects—abrupt temporary effects and gradual permanent effects. The adequacy of the procedure is examined using Monte Carlo simulation. An illustration of the procedure using a real data set is presented.
Role of serum components in density-dependent inhibition of growth of cells in culture. Platelet-derived growth factor is the major serum determinant of saturation density

The effects of platelet-derived growth factor and plasma components on saturation density in cultures of 3T3 cells were investigated. Both of these components of whole blood serum affect saturation density; however, when 3T3 cells become quiescent at high density in medium containing whole blood serum, only platelet-derived growth factor and fresh whole blood serum are capable of stimulating proliferation. Addition of fresh plasma- derived serum has little effect on cell growth. These results suggest that the platelet factor is the major determinant of saturation density in cultures of 3T3 cells maintained in medium supplemented with whole blood serum. Experiments were performed to investigate the mechanism by which platelet-derived growth factor regulates saturation density. We investigated the possibilities of inactivation of growth factors by proliferating cells, and the effects of cell density on the response of 3T3 cells to platelet-derived growth factor. The amount of platelet- derived growth factor required to initiated DNA synthesis increases with increasing cell density. Some inactivation of growth factors by growing cells was detected, but this depletion was only evident at high cell density. We propose that density-dependent inhibition in cultured 3T3 cells is the result both of an increased requirement for the platelet- derived growth factor as the cultures become more crowded and of inactivation of growth factor activity by growing cells.
Anakinra in the treatment of rheumatic disease

Anakinra is a specific receptor antagonist of interleukin-1 that differs from naturally occurring interleukin-1 receptor antagonist by the presence of a methionine group. It is administered by daily subcutaneous injection. Anakinra improves the clinical signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, slows radiographic progression and improves patient physical function. The most common adverse event is an injection site reaction. Anakinra has been associated with an increased incidence of serious infections and has an increased standardized incidence ratio for lymphoma. It has not been found to be associated with the development of opportunistic infections, worsening of congestive heart failure or the development of demyelinating disease. It appears to be effective in treating adult Stills disease, systemic-onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis and chronic infantile neurological cutaneous and articular syndrome (also known as neonatal-onset multisystem inflammatory disease syndrome).
Articulator modification for maxillofacial prosthetics

Abstract Modifications of arcon and nonarcon Hanau articulators have been described. By providing adequate vertical space while maintaining original condylar element position, these modified articulators will accept face-bow registrations and facilitate treatment for the maxillofacial prosthetic patient.
Real-time voltage stability monitoring and evaluation using synchorophasors

This paper focuses on evaluating online voltage stability indices for an interconnected power system. The voltage stability indices are measured during the operation of the power system when the dynamic changes take places. The evaluation of the stability and security indices were performed by simulation and measurement of real-time data using Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs). The evaluation of the dynamic voltage stability indices were performed by creating dynamic load step change in both simulation and implementation at the library scale power system testing environment. The developed simulation involved the modeling of transmission line emulators with a pi structure. Monitoring software was developed and implemented for wide area control and monitoring system on the laboratory power system test-bed. The formulation of the various indices includes: fast voltage stability, line stability and load margin in addition to sensitivity of voltage variation to load changes. Simulation results were verified with measured and monitored data. A good agreement was achieved indicates the validity of the implemented procedure.
Plant serine/arginine-rich proteins and their role in pre-mRNA splicing

Pre-messenger RNA (pre-mRNA) splicing, a process by which mature mRNAs are generated by excision of introns and ligation of exons, is an important step in the regulation of gene expression in all eukaryotes. Selection of alternative splice sites in a pre-mRNA generates multiple mRNAs from a single gene that encode structurally and functionally distinct proteins. Alternative splicing of pre-mRNAs contributes greatly to the proteomic complexity of plants and animals and increases the coding potential of a genome. However, the mechanisms that regulate constitutive and alternative splicing of pre-mRNA are not understood in plants. A serine/arginine-rich (SR) family of proteins is implicated in constitutive and alternative splicing of pre-mRNAs. Here I review recent progress in elucidating the roles of serine/arginine-rich proteins in pre-mRNA splicing.
Ceramic-zeolite composite membranes and their application for separation of vapor/gas mixtures

Abstract Ceramic-zeolite composite membranes were prepared by in-situ synthesis of a thin (∼ 10μm) polycrystalline silicalite-1 layer on the inner surface of an alumina membrane tube. The inner surface is a λ-alumina coating that has 5-nm diameter pores. X-ray diffraction verified the presence of a pure silicalite phase in the layer, and SEM showed that individual silicalite crystals had grown together to form a continuous silicalite-1 layer. The addition of silicalite to the alumina membrane decreased the N2 permeance by a factor of 5, but it decreased the n-C4H10 permeance by a factor of 190, and n-C4H10 appeared to adsorb on the membrane. At room temperature, the permeance ratio of n-C4H10/i-C4H10 was one for the alumina membrane, but it was 3 for the zeolite membrane. Methanol was separated from H2 and from CH4 at 373 K and pressures from 110 to 1100 kPa by preferentially permeating CH3OH through the zeolite membrane. For some conditions the CH3OH/H2 separation factor was greater than 1000, and the CH3OH/CH4 separation factor was 190. Apparently, CH3OH adsorbs and blocks the pores for H2 or CH4 permeation.
Situational affect and temperament: Implications for sibling caregiving

The caregiving behaviour of 60 preschool-age children (M=50 months) toward their 16-month-old younger siblings was observed during a brief separation from their parents. Sibling caregiving was more strongly associated with parent ratings of both the older siblings' and toddlers' temperament than with the younger siblings' distress exhibited during the separation. The older siblings' social fear was positively related to providing care, whereas their temperamental activity level was negatively related to caregiving. Younger siblings' temperamental anger and soothability were positively associated with receiving care from an older sibling. Relations with temperament were independent of both children's distress levels during the separation, and in several instances, dispositional affective measures (i.e. temperament) made stronger contributions to the prediction of sibling caregiving than did situational distress. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
34 Pediatric Interventional Catheterization: Development of a Risk Adjustment Model for Preventable Complications

34 Pediatric Interventional Catheterization: Development of a Risk Adjustment Model for Preventable Complications
A framework for building brand equity online for pure-play B2C retailers and services

Brand equity is an important asset that a B2C company can leverage to compete and prosper in its unique and intensely competitive environment. This paper provides a framework for building brand equity model. Based on this framework, some strategies are suggested to build brand equity online. Implications of the framework for research and practice are also discussed. ACCESS TO FULL TEXT
Coloring uniform hypergraphs with few edges

A hypergraph is b-simple if no two distinct edges share more than b vertices. Let m(r, t, g) denote the minimum number of edges in an r-uniform non-t-colorable hypergraph of girth at least g. Erdos and Lovasz proved that $$\eqalign { & \qquad m(r,t,3)\geq {t^{2(r-2)} \over 16r(r-1)^2} \cr & {\hbox {and}} \quad m(r,t,g)\leq 4\cdot 20^{g-1} r^{3g-5} t^{(g-1)(r+1)}.}$$ A result of Szabo improves the lower bound by a factor of r2-e for sufficiently large r. We improve the lower bound by another factor of r and extend the result to b-simple hypergraphs. We also get a new lower bound for hypergraphs with a given girth. Our results imply that for fixed b, t, and e > 0 and sufficiently large r, every r-uniform b-simple hypergraph $\cal {H}$ with maximum edge-degree at most trr1-e is t-colorable. Some results hold for list coloring, as well. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 2009
The strengths and limitations of lecture-based training in the acquisition of ergonomics knowledge and skill

A common approach to training designers of workplaces to incorporate ergonomic considerations in their designs is a two- to five-day course based primarily on lectures by experts. A quiz, designed to test the acquisition of ergonomics factual knowledge and skill in judging the degree of physical stress in various job configurations, was given to 147 participants before and after four days of a five-day short course based principally on lectures by university faculty and staff. The major findings were as follows. First, there was a considerable lack of factual knowledge and a high level of error in judging the level of stress prior to the training. Second, the training increased participants' factual knowledge but had little impact on their ability to accurately judge levels of stress in slides depicting real work situations. Third, participants' knowledge and skills before the training and their improvement as a result of the training were unrelated to prior education or training in ergonomics or experience with repetitive, manual work. These results are interpreted in light of prior research on design of effective health and safety training.
Current management of varicella zoster virus infections

A series of randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trials conducted from 1980 to the present provide the basis for appropriate management of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infections. Placebo recipients in these studies have also provided valuable natural history data on the clinical course of VZV infections. The protocols in toto have shown acyclovir (ACV) to be safe and effective for treatment of nearly all forms of acute VZV infection. A number of issues still need to be addressed, including appropriate dosage, importance of early initiation of therapy, cost-benefit ratio, and viral resistance. Considering the data in aggregate, the author recommends ACV treatment for all acute VZV infections in immunocompromised hosts; for acute herpes zoster infections in all adults; and for varicella in otherwise healthy adults and adolescents, and children who contract it from a sibling.
Cold War Imperatives and Quarrelsome Clients Modeling U.S. and USSR Arms Transfers to India and Pakistan

This study extends a formal systems model on the political and strategic consequences of great power arms transfers. Using the United States and the Soviet Union as the exporters (or patrons) and Pakistan and India as the importers (clients), tests of the model's components reveal the following: the superpowers were indifferent to the effects of their arms supplies on the relationships between the importers, changes over time in the importers' arms acquisitions from third countries depended on the relationships between the importers and on the record of superpower supplies, subsequent superpower transfers were influenced not by the consequences of past transfers but by the political relationships between the exporters and importers and by the arms trade behavior of the importers, and each importer would be penalized by its arms transfer patron with decreased future supplies for excessive third-country arms shipments and for receiving arms from the opposing superpower.