cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The insulin/TOR signal transduction pathway is involved in the nutritional regulation of juvenile hormone synthesis in Aedes aegypti

Juvenile hormone (JH) levels must be modulated to permit the normal progress of development and reproductive maturation in mosquitoes. JH is part of a transduction system that assesses nutritional information and controls reproduction in mosquitoes. Adult female Aedes aegypti show nutritionally- dependent dynamic changes in corpora allata (CA) JH biosynthetic activities. A coordinated expression of most JH biosynthetic enzymes has been described in female pupae and adult mosquitoes; increases or decreases in transcript levels for all the enzymes were concurrent with increases or decreases in JH synthesis; suggesting that transcriptional changes are at least partially responsible for the dynamic changes of JH biosynthesis. The goal of the present study is to identify signaling network components responsible for the nutritional-dependent changes of JH synthesis in the CA of mosquitoes. The insulin/ TOR signaling network plays a central role in the transduction of nutritional signals that regulate cell growth and metabolism in insects. These pathways have also been suggested as a link between nutri- tional signals and JH synthesis regulation in the CA of cockroaches and flies. We used a combination of in vitro studies and in vivo genetic knockdown experiments to explore nutritional signaling pathways in the CA. Our results suggest that the insulin/TOR pathway plays a role in the transduction of the nutri- tional information that regulates JH synthesis in mosquitoes. Transcriptional regulation of the genes encoding JH biosynthetic enzymes is at least partially responsible for these nutritionally modulated changes of JH biosynthesis. Published by Elsevier Ltd.
Workplace Relations: Friendship Patterns and Consequences (According to Managers)

This article examines orientations toward workplace friendship. Based on a survey of senior managers in cities with populations over 50,000, it addresses the following questions: Do senior managers promote, condone, or discourage workplace friendship? What risks and benefits of workplace friendships do these managers perceive? What policies and strategies that affect workplace friendship are found in organizations? How do these organizational efforts affect perceptions of employee performance? This article finds that, despite the risks, orientations in favor of workplace friendships are widespread, and many jurisdictions engage in efforts to promote them.
Automated thermal degradation studies on solid σ-organotransition metal complexes: Dimethyl-titanocene, -zirconocene and -hafnocene

The volatile products resulting from the solid-state thermal decomposition of the dimethylmetallocenes Cp2M(CH3)2 (M = Ti, Zr, Hf) have been characterized by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Analogous studies utilizing Cp2Ti(CD3)2 have provided evidence for the various degradative pathways involved in these thermolysis processes.
Rare earth atom-to-solid core level shifts: Sensitivity to valence changes

Abstract Free-atom-to-metal shifts of several lanthanide core electron binding energies were calculated. The shifts were obtained directly from relativistic Hartree-Fock calculations of the individual atomic and solid state binding energies. Results for the 2p, 3d, 4f, 5s and 5p levels are reported here. A marked dependence on the core state quantum numbers is apparent in the shifts derived for the elements praseodymium to samarium and terbium to thulium which undergo a valence change on formation of the metal. A single shift characterizing all core levels of a given element cannot be assumed therefore when a configuration change involving the 4f states occurs on solid formation.
Mitigating the effect of mobility on cooperation in wireless ad hoc networks

In wireless ad hoc networks, nodes may act selfishly to preserve their limited energy resources. This behavior can cause the network performance to drop. Therefore, cooperation between peers is necessary to keep ad hoc networks operational. Beside the need to actively encourage cooperation, passive encouragement is also needed to overcome the effect of factors that may limit cooperation. These factors include malicious behavior, environmental obstruction that may cause communication distortion, and mobility. In particular, recent studies on real networks have shown a detrimental effect of mobility on network topology that may hinder cooperation in ad hoc networks. Coalitional game theory has been used in the literature to model cooperation in ad hoc networks, yet the effect of mobility has not been studied thoroughly. In this paper, we propose a coalition game model for cooperation in mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) that shows that the effect of topology changes caused by mobility on the coalitional structure can be mitigated while maintaining coalitional stability. We use the notion of reachability to evaluate the proposed model. We simulate the model under different speeds and node densities. Our simulations show that reachability can be sustained at stable levels despite the deterioration caused by mobility.
Metabolic regulation of low K+ permeability in cold-stored erythrocytes: Role of calcium ion and reduced glutathione

Abstract 1. 1. Cold-stored red blood cells of guinea pig lose K + more rapidly with Ca 2+ in the medium than without. They also lose K + more rapidly if deprived of glucose. The two effects are independent and do not involve the Na/K pump. 2. 2. In cold-stored glucose-deprived cells loss of K + parallels decrease in reduced glutathione (GSH) concentration. 3. 3. Lowering GSH in fresh cells reversibly increases passive K + permeation. Thus, GSH is a likely metabolic regulator of passive permeability.
Developmental Regulation of the Amount and Subcellular Targeting of the GLUT1 Glucose Transporter in Mouse Mammary Gland ♦ 426

Developmental Regulation of the Amount and Subcellular Targeting of the GLUT1 Glucose Transporter in Mouse Mammary Gland ♦ 426
Thermal condensation of substituted imidazoles with trifluoroacetaldehyde

Abstract The title condensation provides the corresponding (1′-hydroxy-2′,2′,2′-trifluoroethyl)imidazoles in yields dependent on the electronic nature of the substituent: ortho-para directors promote the reaction while meta directors retard it strongly. 1-Alkylimidazoles gave only 2-adducts. 2-Substituted imidazoles yielded 4(5)-adducts together with small amounts of 4,5-bis-adducts. 4(5)-Substituted imidazoles provided 5(4)-adducts as the main products together with 2-adducts and 2,5(4)-bis-adducts.
Comparison of the acute toxicities of N-nitrosothiazolidine and N-nitrosomorpholine.

The effects of N‐nitrosothiazolldine (NNT) and N‐nitrosomorpholine (NNM) on different biological parameters were investigated and compared. The oral LD50 value of NNT (1950 ± 85 mg/kg) showed that it was about 6 times less toxic than NNM (LD50 = 320 mg/kg, po; Druckrey et al., 1967). Lethal and near‐lethal doses (≥1500 mg/kg, po) of NNT caused central nervous system depression (reduced spontaneous motor activity, loss of righting and pain reflexes, without loss of consciousness), stereotypical behavior such as, purposeless chewing jaw movements lasting more than one hour, muscular rigidity, and in some rats, rare and brief clonic convulsions, 3 to 24 h after dosing. These neurotoxic signs, as a whole, were reminiscent of opioid intoxication. Rats that died after NNT‐treatment had kidney necrosis in the distal tubules, but all survivors had normal kidneys. NNT (500 and 1000 mg/kg, sc) had no effect on the relative liver weights, but it inhibited liver mitosis at 24, 48, and 72 h after treatment. NNM (100 m...
New distortion measures for data compression for emitter location

Data compression methods commonly focus on mean-square error (MSE) distortion. However, in TDOA/FDOA emitter location the distortion measure should focus on parameter accuracy. This paper discusses the proper choice of a distortion measure for this problem. We show that MSE is a poor choice for two reasons: (i) increased MSE may not even effect the parameter accuracy, and (ii) there are other factors that must be considered (e.g., the signal's RMS bandwidth/duration and the relative usefulness of TDOA vs. FDOA). We propose a new measure that captures the true impact of compression and illustrate its importance through a few simple examples.
Potential for Immunological and Microbiological Intervention against Porphyromonas gingivalis Infection

The presence of Porphyromonas gingivalis is strongly correlated with chronic periodontitis, an oral infection-driven inflammatory disease. Both bacterial virulence factors and host factors contribute to periodontal tissue destruction, including inflammatory resorption of alveolar bone which may lead to tooth loss. P. gingivalis can successfully colonize subgingival areas, induces inflammatory reactions by host immune cells, but is believed to resist immune elimination. This article reviews important virulence factors and mechanisms that allow P. gingivalis to thrive in the periodontium, and summarizes potential microbiological and immunological intervention strategies to counteract P. gingivalis pathogenesis.
Function of the contralateral kidney in renal hypertension due to renal artery stenosis.

Severe hypertension of at least 7 years' duration, due to coarctation of the right renal artery, was treated by reconstruction of the abnormal artery and restoration of blood flow to the coarcted kidney. Renal biopsies revealed normal microscopic architecture in the right kidney and advanced hypertensive pathology in the opposite kidney. After 8 months' observation of persistent, moderate hypertension, the left kidney was removed with prompt return of blood pressure to normal levels during the subsequent 2½ years. These observations demonstrate the precise correlation of hypertension due to renal artery stenosis in the human with the experimental model in rats.
Allosteric activation of hypothalamic tyrosine hydroxylase by ions and sulphated mucopolysaccharides.

— The kinetics of canine hypothalamic tyrosine hydroxylase were studied in the presence of various ions and sulphated mucopolysaccharides. Enzymic activity was dependent on ionic strength, a specific sulphate effect and the presence of the highly sulphated mucopolysaccharide, heparin. Whereas both sulphate and heparin activated tyrosine hydroxylase by increasing Vmax heparin, but not sulphate, also increased the affinity of the enzyme for the synthetic cofactor, 2-amino-4-hydroxy-6,7-dirnethyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydropteridine, by nearly an order of magnitude. Other rnucopolysaccharides, such as chondroitin sulphate and hyaluronic acid, were not effective as activators of tyrosine hydroxylase. The allosteric activation of tyrosine hydroxylase by heparin may serve to ‘sensitize’ the enzyme to low levels of its end product, norepinephrine.
A Computer Analysis of EEG Spectral Signatures from Normal and Dyslexic Children

We have been able to differentiate between 12 dyslexic children and 13 normal age- and sex-matched children on the basis of spectral estimates of their electroencephalograms (EEG's). The children were monitored during various mental tasks and rest situations. Data dimensionality was reduced by ``banding'' various spectral components and eliminating others. The reduced spectral vectors were used as an input to a stepwise discriminant analysis program which, in effect, selected the variables most disparate between the two groups (dyslexic and normal).
On the relationship between carcinogenicity and acute toxicity.

Parodi et al.(1) and Zeise et al.(2) found a surprising statistical correlation (or association) between acute toxicity and carcinogenic potency. In order to shed light on the questions of whether or not it is a causal correlation, and whether or not it is a statistical or tautological artifact, we have compared the correlations for the NCI/NTP data set with those for chemicals not in this set. Carcinogenic potencies were taken from the Gold et al. database. We find a weak correlation with an average value of TD50/LD50= 0.04 for the non-NCI data set, compared with TD50/LD50= 0.15 for the NCI data set. We conclude that it is not easy to distinguish types of carcinogens on the basis of whether or not they are acutely toxic.
The commitment to breastfeeding

The Agency for International Development (A.I.D.) is increasing its efforts to promote breastfeeding, as part of its child survival initiatives in child spacing, diarrheal disease control, and nutrition. Research suggests that promotion can increase breastfeeding rates. The Agency, for the first time, has set aside funds specifically for breastfeeding promotion and is working to identify places in its programs where such promotion can take place.
Claviculectomy for subclavian venous repair: long-term functional results.

Abstract Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the long-term functional results after medial claviculectomy and venous patch angioplasty or bypass grafting using internal jugular vein after incomplete thrombolysis of effort thrombosis of the subclavian vein. Methods: The records of 11 patients with effort thrombosis who were treated over the past 9 years were reviewed. Patients have been followed up between 3 and 9 years at 6-month intervals with duplex imaging and contrast venography when indicated and have had an orthopedic evaluation of their shoulder function. Results: All reconstructed veins are patent, and only one patient complains of any arm swelling after prolonged usage. This patient is one of three with postphlebitic changes at the site of repair and has similar findings in her basilic vein. All patients have returned to their prethrombosis vocation without limitation. Four of the 11 patients have jobs requiring heavy physical labor. No patient describes any limitations of shoulder function, but one man who works as a diesel mechanic complains of shoulder aching with overuse with repetitive pulling. Three patients describe upper extremity paresthesias when lying on the operated side. Two patients (one man and one woman) are bothered by the large scar and indentation at the site of the incision. Every patient considers the overall result completely successful from a functional standpoint. Conclusions: Early subclavian venous repair performed through a medial claviculectomy is a durable operation with excellent long-term functional results. Half of the patients noted minor but significant symptoms, but all are uniformly able to return to normal function. (J Vasc Surg 2000;32:315-21.)
Uncommon causes of irritative lower urinary tract symptoms

Bladder symptoms accompanying a spectrum of disorders, ranging from urethral syndrome to interstitial cystitis, may be caused by potentially reversible factors. Some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents, particularly tiaprofenic acid, can cause frequency, urgency and suprapubic pain which is reversed upon discontinuing the medication. Anabolic steroids and GnRH agonists can on occasion cause bladder i irritability. Approximately half of women with bladder endometriosis have frequency and dysuria, usually without hematuria. Mycoplasma, ureaplasma and chlamydia are all associated with urethral syndrome. Cystitis may be caused by herpes simplex virus, herpes zoster, human T-lymphotrophic virus type 1, cytomegalovirus, toxoplasma and candida. Some work-related toxins may cause bladder effects without neoplasm. Foods high in tyrosine, tyramine and aspartate may exacerbate painful bladder syndrome. A search for potential non-bacterial sources of irritative lower urinary tract symptoms is warranted in evaluating women with such symptoms.
Vulnerability and Protection of Channel State Information in Multiuser MIMO Networks

Multiple-In-Multiple-Out (MIMO) offers great potential for increasing network capacity by exploiting spatial diversity with multiple antennas. Multiuser MIMO (MU-MIMO) further enables Access Points (APs) with multiple antennas to transmit multiple data streams concurrently to several clients. In MU-MIMO, clients need to estimate Channel State Information (CSI) and report it to APs in order to eliminate interference between them. We explore the vulnerability in clients' plaintext feedback of estimated CSI to the APs and propose two advanced attacks that malicious clients can mount by reporting forged CSI: (1) sniffing attack that enables concurrently transmitting malicious clients to eavesdrop other ongoing transmissions; (2) power attack that enables malicious clients to enhance their own capacity at the expense of others?. We have implemented and evaluated these two attacks in a WARP testbed. Based on our experimental results, we suggest a revision of the current CSI feedback scheme and propose a novel CSI feedback system, called the CSIsec, to prevent CSI forging without requiring any modification at the client side, thus facilitating its deployment.
The role of hydrogen in heavily doped amorphous silicon

Abstract Amorphous silicon films have been grown in a d.c. glow discharge in silane (SiH4) containing 1–4 vol.% of either diborane (B2H6) or phosphine (PH3). Deposition parameters such as substrate temperature, flow rate, pressure and power were varied, and properties such as composition, conductivity, optical absorption and infrared absorption were studied. Compositional profiles were obtained with secondary ion mass spectroscopy and show that both the hydrogen and dopant concentrations are influenced by the deposition conditions. The experimental results indicate that hydrogen plays a dominant role in determining the conductivity of these heavily doped amorphous silicon films.
Hall effect in percolating systems.

The interpenetrating-network model that Bergman has proposed for the Hall effect in a percolating system is discussed, and it is shown that it gives incorrect exponents in the high-dimensionality limit, because a relevant variable has been excluded. A more general model is proposed which remedies this fault. Simulations of cubic lattices up to L=20 give an estimate for the exponent which describes the divergence of the Hall coefficient at ${p}_{c}$:g=0.
Modulation of action potential duration on myocyte hypertrophic pathways.

Abstract Prolongation of the action potential duration (APD) has consistently been observed in experimental models of cardiac hypertrophy and failure as well as in humans and is partially attributed to a reduction of a hyperpolarizing current provided by the calcium-independent transient outward K + channel (I to ). In the present study, we examined the effects of manipulating ion channel currents (I to and sodium/calcium exchanger (NCX)) and the associated alterations in action potential duration on cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and signaling induced by angiotensin II (AngII). Our aim was to examined whether distinct patterns of intracellular calcium manipulation could generate distinct patterns of MAPkinase activation and cellular hypertrophy. Cultured neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVMs) were infected with Ad. β-gal/GFP, Ad.Kv4.3, Ad.Kv4.3 antisense or Ad.NCX adenoviruses and hypertrophy induced by incubation with AngII. Overexpression of Kv4.3 increased I to density, shortened APD, decreased Ca 2+ influx and inhibited AngII-induced 3 H-leucine incorporation and ANF and β-MHC expression. These hypertrophic changes were also paralleled by blockade of ERK MAP kinases activation as well as calcineurin expression. These electrical and hypertrophic changes produced by overexpression of Kv4.3 were completely and significantly reversed by Kv4.3 antisense and NCX gene transfer. Our findings indicate that AngII-mediated hypertrophy response in NRVMs can be abrogated by an enhancement of I to function through overexpression of Kv4.3 and that modulation of action potential duration can be important in the development of cardiac hypertrophy.
Swarming over the software barrier

Swarm is a concurrent programming model which integrates a Linda-like communication medium, the shared dataspace, with a UNITY-like computational model, proof system, and program structure. It generalizes the Linda tuple-space operations by providing more powerful dataspace queries. It generalizes UNITY by permitting content-based access to data, a dynamic set of statements, and the capability to control the execution mode (i.e., synchronous or asynchronous) for arbitrary collections of program statements.
Dosimetric Correlation of Acute and Late Xerostomia with Patients Treated with IMRT and Chemotherapy

Results: A large decline in bowel function (22%) was observed at the end of RT that was both statistically and clinically significant. Bowel function returned to baseline during AS. There was a decline in global health status and an increase in pain at the end of RT that resolved during AS. While statistically significant, this change was of minor clinical significance. Patients also developed insomnia during AS that was of minor clinical significance and improved during the second year of AS. Interestingly, there was no significant change in either erectile function or urinary function at any time point. None of the other QOL domains of the EORTC QLQ-C30 demonstrated any significant change during either RT or AS compared to the baseline measurement taken at enrollment.
New lowtran band model for water vapor

A Transmittance band model for IR water vapor in the atmosphere is determined using line by line generated spectra. The absorberp arameters of the model are tabulated.
2-port λ G /4 waveguide standard of voltage standing-wave ratio

A new calculable standard of voltage-reflection coefficient and voltage standing-wave ratio consists of a quarter-guide-wavelength section of waveguide having cross-sectional dimensions different from those of the waveguide system into which it is inserted. Design equations are given for waveguide of rectangular and coaxial cross-sections.
Verbal discrimination learning and retention as a function of performance or observation and ease of conceptualization of task materials

Four classes of high school psychology students were given verbal discrimination learning tasks with correct responses of varying ease of conceptualization. Study trials were administered with subjects working in pairs, with each subject alternately performing (selecting one of the two projected words) and observing (watching partner make selection). Both in acquisition and in 24-h free recall tests, more correct responses were made under the performance condition. Also, in each instance, there was a reliable Perform/Observe by Group (task) interaction. These results are interpreted as offering support for the proposition that reward functions, presumably operating more directly in the perform than in the observe condition, have some strengthening effect on responses that cannot be accounted for in terms of strictly cognitive processes.
Behavioral Adjustment of Adopted Chinese Girls in Single-Mother, Lesbian-Couple, and Heterosexual-Couple Households

This study compared the behavioral adjustment of girls from families headed by single mothers and lesbian couples with their peers from married heterosexual households. The sample included 93 Chinese girls adopted by the three types of families (31 girls in each type of family). The girls in the three types of families were matched on age at adoption, age at assessment, and number of adoptive siblings. The Child Behavior Checklist was used to measure their behavior adjustment (i.e., internalizing problems, externalizing problems, and overall behavioral problems). General linear modeling revealed that children from the three types of families were not statistically different in behavioral adjustment except in the preschool-aged group's internalizing problems and the school-aged group's externalizing problems, wherein children in single-mother households scored lower than their peers from lesbian-couple households. Psychological and social-political implications are discussed.
Electron trajectories in twisted electrostatic deflection yokes

A mathematical analysis is carried out for electron motion in a cylindrical electrostatic deflection yoke which is twisted around its axis and immersed in a uniform axial magnetic field to form a twisted focus projection and scanning (FPS) deflection system. The yoke has an arbitrary twist angle, and is a generalization of yokes with π/2 rad of twist recently used in FPS vidicons. New modes of operation are found which eliminate shading caused by off-normal beam landing at the target, while providing improved deflection sensitivity, increased resolution, and reduced power consumption in the focusing solenoid as compared with the untrusted shading-free mode previously reported by Schlesinger, Wagner, and Saldi [1]-[3]. The theoretical predictions are supported by data from experimental devices.
Effects of low-carbohydrate and low-fat diets

Low-carbohydrate diets are popular for weight loss, but their cardiovascular effects have not been well-studied, particularly in diverse populations. In this randomized trial, the authors examined ...
Network discovery from passive measurements

Understanding the Internet's structure through empirical measurements is important in the development of new topology generators, new protocols, traffic engineering, and troubleshooting, among other things. While prior studies of Internet topology have been based on active (traceroute-like) measurements, passive measurements of packet traffic offer the possibility of a greatly expanded perspective of Internet structure with much lower impact and management overhead. In this paper we describe a methodology for inferring network structure from passive measurements of IP packet traffic. We describe algorithms that enable 1) traffic sources that share network paths to be clustered accurately without relying on IP address or autonomous system information, 2) topological structure to be inferred accurately with only a small number of active measurements, 3) missing information to be recovered, which is a serious challenge in the use of passive packet measurements. We demonstrate our techniques using a series of simulated topologies and empirical data sets. Our experiments show that the clusters established by our method closely correspond to sources that actually share paths. We also show the trade-offs between selectively applied active probes and the accuracy of the inferred topology between sources. Finally, we characterize the degree to which missing information can be recovered from passive measurements, which further enhances the accuracy of the inferred topologies.
2A-2 Evidence that the Negative Dispersion in Bone Results from Interference Between Fast and Slow Modes Each with Positive Dispersion

Measurements from many laboratories indicate that on average the phase velocity of ultrasonic waves propagating in bone decreases with increasing frequency. This negative dispersion in bone is inconsistent with the nearly local approximation to the Kramers-Kronig relations with one subtraction that relates attenuation to dispersion. We hypothesized that observed negative dispersion in bone might result from the interference between the fast and the slow compressional waves. Supporting evidence is offered by carrying out simulations in which bone was modeled with two independent approaches: one based on the Biot-Johnson model and one independent of that model. Results of both simulations are mutually consistent and show that for cases in which the interference between the fast and slow waves has occurred, a phase spectroscopy algorithm frequently yielded an apparent negative dispersion, even though each mode separately was characterized with positive dispersion
Reproductive and Sphingolipid Metabolic Effects of Fumonisin B1 and its Alkaline Hydrolysis Product in LM/Bc Mice: Hydrolyzed Fumonisin B1 Did Not Cause Neural Tube Defects

Fumonisins are mycotoxins produced by Fusarium verticillioides. They are toxic to animals and exert their effects through mechanisms involving disruption of sphingolipid metabolism. Fumonisins are converted to their hydrolyzed analogs by alkaline cooking (nixtamalization). Both fumonisins and hydrolyzed fumonisins are found in nixtamalized foods such as tortillas, and consumption of tortillas has been implicated as a risk factor for neural tube defects (NTD). Fumonisin B1 (FB1) induced NTD when given (ip) to pregnant LM/Bc mice; however, neither the NTD induction potential of hydrolyzed fumonisin B1 (HFB1) nor its affect on sphingolipid metabolism in pregnant mice have been reported. The teratogenic potential of FB1 and HFB1 was therefore compared using the LM/Bc mouse model. Dams were dosed (ip) with 2.5, 5.0, 10, or 20 mg/kg (£ 49 mmol/kg) body weight (bw) HFB1 on embryonic day (E)7–E8. Negative and positive control groups were given vehicle or 10 mg/kg (14 mmol/kg) bw FB1, respectively. The high dose of HFB1 disrupted sphingolipid metabolism, albeit slightly, but did not cause maternal liver lesions or NTD (n 5 8–10 litters per group). In contrast, 10 mg/kg bw FB1 markedly disrupted maternal sphingolipid metabolism, caused hepatic apoptosis in the dams, increased fetal death rates, and decreased fetal weights. Furthermore, NTD were found in all FB1exposed litters (n 5 10), and 66 ± 24% of the fetuses were affected. The findings indicate that HFB1 does not cause NTD in the sensitive LM/Bc mouse model and only weakly disrupts sphingolipid metabolism at doses up to sevenfold higher (micromole per
Update on sexed semen technology in cattle

The technology in current use for sexing sperm represents remarkable feats of engineering. These flow cytometer/cell sorters can make over 30 000 consecutive evaluations of individual sperm each second for each nozzle and sort the sperm into three containers: X-sperm, Y-sperm and unsexable plus dead sperm. Even at these speeds it is not economical to package sperm at standard numbers per inseminate. However, with excellent management, pregnancy rates in cattle with 2 million sexed sperm per insemination dose are about 80% of those with conventional semen at normal sperm doses. This lowered fertility, in part due to damage to sperm during sorting, plus the extra cost of sexed semen limits the applications that are economically feasible. Even so, on the order of 2 million doses of bovine semen are sexed annually in the United States. The main application is for dairy heifers to have heifer calves, either for herd expansion or for sale as replacements, often for eventual export. Breeders of purebred cattle often use sexed semen for specific matings; thawing and then sexing frozen semen and immediately using the few resulting sexed sperm for in vitro fertilization is done with increasing frequency. Beef cattle producers are starting to use sexed semen to produce crossbred female replacements. Proprietary improvements in sperm sexing procedures, implemented in 2013, are claimed to improve fertility between 4 and 6 percentage points, or about 10%.
A pharmacist-initiated program of intravenous to oral antibiotic conversion.

A prospective program to convert patients from parenteral to oral antibiotics was evaluated over 12 months to determine its pharmacoeconomic impact on antibiotic acquisition and length of hospital stay. Physicians of patients meeting predetermined clinical criteria for mild and moderate infections were contacted to discuss potential oral alternative therapy. Clinical end points and economic data were followed in 242 patients (200 converted and 42 not converted but meeting criteria). No significant differences were noted between the groups with regard to demographic data, infection diagnosis, clinical outcome, or adverse effects. The average number of days of therapy for patients converted was 1.53 days shorter than that of patients who were not converted to oral therapy (p<0.003). Cost savings for drug acquisition and length of stay were $15,149.24 and $161,071.88, respectively. The intervention program appeared to provide a cost-effective conversion from parenteral to oral antimicrobial administration without compromising patient care. It is anticipated that expansion of the program to include additional antibiotics will result in even greater cost savings for the institution.
Efficacy of Organic and Conventional Fungicides and Impact of Application Timing on Control of Tomato Late Blight Caused by US-22, US-23, and US-24 Isolates of Phytophthora infestans

Late blight, caused by Phytophthora infestans, is one of the most economically important diseases of potato and tomato worldwide. Repeated preventative application of fungicides is the primary means of control on susceptible solanaceous host crops. For organic production, fungicide choices are limited, and little efficacy data on noncopper options is available on which to base control recommendations. Twelve fungicides, including organic and conventional selections, were evaluated for both preventative and postinfection control of a single infection cycle of late blight caused by isolates representing three recently identified P. infestans clonal lineages (US-22, US-23, and US-24) using a detached tomato leaf assay. A subset of the most effective fungicides was also tested for preventative control of a single infection cycle of late blight caused by an isolate of US-23 on potted whole tomato plants under laboratory conditions. Fungicide applications made 2 days after inoculation failed to significantly control late blight on detached leaves in all treatments, with the exception of Bravo Ultrex (US-23 only) and Phostrol (US-22 only). Preventative fungicide applications of Bravo Ultrex, Ridomil Gold SL, Revus, Zonix, and low and high rates of EF400 significantly controlled late blight caused by US-22, -23, and -24 isolates. Additionally, preventative application of Phostrol significantly controlled late blight caused by the US-22 isolate; and Phostrol, low rate of Mycostat, and high rate of Champ significantly controlled late blight caused by the US-23 isolate. Late blight caused by the US-24 isolate was significantly reduced compared with US-22 and US-23 isolates for all fungicide treatments applied after inoculation, as well as for all preventative fungicide treatments, with the exception of Bravo, Ridomil, and Revus. In whole-potted-plant assays with the US-23 isolate, late blight was significantly controlled by preventative application of Bravo Ultrex, Ridomil Gold SL, and high rate of EF400; disease was not significantly controlled by Zonix, low rate of EF400, Phostrol, or low and high rates of Champ. Based on these results, it is anticipated that currently available fungicides with suitability to conventional and organic systems can effectively control late blight caused by new clonal lineages of P. infestans when applied preventatively and that late blight caused by the US-24 clonal lineage may require less fungicide use than US-22 or US-23 to mitigate disease.
Pregnancy outcomes among U.S. women Vietnam veterans

Background Since the 1965–1975 Vietnam War, there has been persistent concern that women who served in the U.S. military in Vietnam may have experienced adverse pregnancy outcomes. Methods We compared self-reported pregnancy outcomes for 4,140 women Vietnam veterans with those of 4,140 contemporary women veterans who were not deployed to Vietnam. As a measure of association, we calculated odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) using logistic regression adjusting for age at conception, race, education, military nursing status, smoking, drinking and other exposures during pregnancy. Results There was no statistically significant association between military service in Vietnam and index pregnancies resulting in miscarriage or stillbirth, low birth weight, pre-term delivery, or infant death. The risk of having children with “moderate-to-severe” birth defects was significantly elevated among Vietnam veterans (adjusted OR = 1.46, 95% CI = 1.06–2.02). Conclusions The risk of birth defects among index children was significantly associated with mother's military service in Vietnam. Am. J. Ind. Med. 38:447–454, 2000. Published 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Microbial enzyme activities as indicators of organic matter processing rates in a Lake Erie coastal wetland

SUMMARY 1. Particulate organic material (POM) is an important source of energy and nutrients in aquatic ecosystems. The decomposition of this material is typically studied using the litter bag technique. However, this method has inherent limitations that can preclude the estimation of in situ decomposition rates, especially for fine particles. In this study, we tried to circumvent these limitations through the use of enzymatic decomposition models (EDMs), which relate mass loss rates to lignocellulase activities. With this approach, we investigated the in situ processing of three size ranges of detritus in a Typha wetland. 2. Litter was collected, dried and sorted into three size ranges [coarse (C) > 4, medium (M) 0.5–4 and fine (F) 0.063–0.5 mm] and placed in litter bags that were attached to the sediment surface at two sites in a Typha wetland in May 1994. Over a 7-month period, litter bags were collected and analysed for mass loss and the activities of six extracellular enzymes involved in the degradation of lignocellulose. In situ POM was collected concurrently, sorted into the same three size ranges and assayed for the same suite of enzymes. Additional cores were taken for the determination of organic matter standing stocks and particle size distribution. 3. Mean mass loss rates for CPOM, MPOM and FPOM were -0.139, -0.073 and -0.053% day−1, respectively. Only CPOM rates were significantly different between sites. For CPOM and FPOM there were strong linear relationships between mass loss and cumulative enzyme activities; the mass loss data for MPOM were erratic and precluded the development of reliable enzyme models. EDMs for CPOM and FPOM were constructed from regressions relating mass loss to average cumulative lignocellulase activity, and used to estimate instantaneous in situ decomposition rates. These rates varied by site and throughout the year but averaged -0.204 and -0.045% day−1, respectively. Based upon measurements of OM standing stock and particle size distributions, POM processing rates of 1100–1400 g m2 yr−1 were calculated. These rates are near the upper end of the range for net annual production in Typha wetlands, suggesting that there is little net accumulation of POM. 4. Despite some problems, the EDM method has the potential to facilitate studies of detrital dynamics in large, heterogeneous systems.
The National Institute of Nursing Research Graduate Partnerships Program (NINR-GPP): An opportunity for PhD students

The Institutional Graduate Partnerships Program (GPP) offered by the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR) provides an exceptional opportunity for students who are enrolled in any PhD program in nursing across the nation to complete dissertation research on the premier research campus of the National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD. The goal of this doctoral fellowship program, which is up to 3 years in length, is to train promising doctoral students in basic and clinical research. This knowledge and skill set is necessary for the next generation of nurse scientists to ultimately conduct translational research. In this article, the authors describe the program, eligibility requirements, application procedures, and selection criteria for NINR-supported GPP nursing students. Also provided are tips for interested students and outcomes of current and former NINR-supported GPP students (NINR-GPP).
Multiple building simulations and effect of berms behind blast barrier walls

The ERDC is developing procedures to be used to increase the level of protection to our military when it occupies buildings in an urban environment. An engineering model for predicting the effects of surrounding buildings and a model for predicting the effects of barriers on airblast pressures are needed. Combined high-performance computing (HPC) and experimental investigations are being conducted to develop these models. HPC simulations of the effects of barriers and barriers with berms are compared with experimental data. HPC results for simulations of the effect of a nearby building on the load on the structure of interest are also presented. The HPC simulations along with experimental results are being used to understand the phenomenology so that an engineering model can be developed.
Safety and Immunogenicity of an Inactivated Hepatitis A Vaccine among HIV-Infected Subjects

Background. Hepatitis A is a major health risk for many human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals. Vaccination is a potentially attractive measure to reduce the incidence of hepatitis A among this population, but data on its safety and immunogenicity are incomplete. Methods. Ninety HIV-uninfected adults received an inactivated hepatitis A vaccine (VAQTA; Merck), and 90 HIV-infected subjects were randomized, in double-blind fashion, to receive either the vaccine or placebo. The HIV-infected subjects were stratified by CD4 cell count, with 45 subjects having CD4 cell counts of ≥300 cells/ mm 3 and 45 subjects having CD4 cell counts of <300 cells/mm 3 . Vaccine was given at weeks 0 and 24 of the study. Results. Seroconversion rates at week 28 of the study were 94% among the HIV-infected subjects and 100% among the HIV-uninfected control subjects. HIV-infected subjects with CD4 cell counts of <300 cells/mm 3 had a seroconversion rate of 87%, and HIV-infected subjects with CD4 cell counts of ≥300 cells/mm 3 had a seroconversion rate of 100%. The vaccine was generally well tolerated, and no adverse effect on either HIV load or CD4 cell count was found. Conclusion. Hepatitis A vaccine was both immunogenic and safe among HIV-infected subjects.
Low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion, cannot exclude high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion: a category with an increased outcome of high-grade lesions: use as a quality assurance measure.

“Low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL), cannot exclude high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion” (LSIL-H) is an increasingly used, equivocal interpretive category in gynecologic cytology. In an effort to evaluate its potential usefulness as a measure of quality assurance, we studied patterns of use of the LSIL-H diagnosis compared with “LSIL” and “high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion” (HSIL) with corresponding histologic outcomes for 10 cytopathologists in our practice. In our laboratory, while the overall rate of associated cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2 or greater on histologic follow-up for LSIL-H was intermediate between that of LSIL and HSIL, the outcomes for individual cytopathologists varied widely. Monitoring this particular utilization-outcome data with periodic confidential feedback to individual cytopathologists offers an opportunity for practice improvement within a laboratory and serves as an additional measure of quality assurance. These data may be useful for establishing and/or realigning the diagnostic criteria for this equivocal cytologic interpretation endorsed by a pathology practice. The designation “low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL), cannot exclude high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion” (LSIL-H) represents an equivocal interpretive category in gynecologic cytology proposed to classify abnormal cervical cytologic findings with features of both LSIL and “atypical squamous cells, cannot exclude high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion” (ASCH). Although not a distinct diagnostic category endorsed by The Bethesda System (TBS), which represents the nomenclature standard for reporting cervicovaginal cytologic diagnoses, LSIL-H has been used by some laboratories as a variation of “squamous intraepithelial lesion of indeterminate grade” to designate those cases fulfilling criteria for both LSIL and ASC-H. Recent studies evaluating the significance of LSIL-H have shown that histologic followup for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2 or greater (CIN 2+) associated with LSIL-H is intermediate between that for cytologic diagnoses of LSIL and “high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion” (HSIL), supporting the use of LSIL-H
Effect of Telescopic Spectacles on Head Stability in Normal and Low Vision

Telescopic spectacles, highly magnifying visual aids mounted in spectacle frames, markedly alter the visual consequences of head movements. To evaluate the effect of this altered visual feedback on head stability, angular head velocity of normally sighted and low vision subjects was measured in the roll, pitch, and yaw axes. Measurements were made under two postural conditions: (1) quiet standing; and (2) walking in place, as well as three visual conditions: (1) eyes closed; (2) unmagnified vision; and (3) vision with 4 x binocular telescopic spectacles. For normal subjects during quiet standing, both unmagnified vision and vision with telescopic spectacles tended to reduce spontaneous head velocity in all axes as compared to the eyes-closed condition. However, in low vision subjects neither unmagnified vision nor vision with telescopic spectacles produced significant changes in values of head velocity relative to those measured with eyes closed. Spontaneous head velocities for standing low vision subjects tended to be higher than in normal subjects, although not all differences were statistically significant. During walking in place, Fourier analysis demonstrated prominent frequency components related to harmonics of the walking frequency under all viewing conditions. In normal subjects, vision with telescopic spectacles, to a greater degree than unmagnified vision, reduced head velocity during walking in the roll and yaw, but not the pitch, axes. For low vision subjects, significant reductions in head velocity during walking were observed only during vision with telescopic spectacles. These findings indicate that vision reduces angular instability of the head during standing and walking. Magnification produced by telescopic spectacles further improves head stability under some conditions, although the effect of vision is least evident in the pitch axis. The stabilizing effect of vision is reduced in low vision subjects. Language: en
Population dynamics of the Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), on Solanum berthaultii

Population dynamics of the Colorado potato beetle (CPB), Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say), differed on two host plants: Solanum tuberosum L., and the wild potato plant, S. berthaultii Hawkes. In both laboratory and field studies, the beetles developed more slowly on S. berthaultii. In the field the CPB first generation index (number of beetles released per cage divided by number of emerging beetles) was reduced on S. berthaultii relative to S. tuberosum. Immigration was lower and dispersal and larval mortality were higher on S. berthaultii. Adult longevity did not differ between the two host plants. Winter survival was 75% lower on S. berthaultii than on S. tuberosum. After two generations of confinement on S. berthaultii in the field, beetles no longer demonstrated a reluctance to oviposit on this host. Survival of larvae from the third generation reared on S. berthaultii was comparable with survival of larvae raised on S. tuberosum.
Sheet Strength and Fiber Characteristics of Chemithermomechanical Pulp from Giant Leucaena Wood

The fiber characteristics (fiber length, specific surface area, etc.) of alkaline sulfite chemithermomechanical pulp (Na2SO3+NaOH-CTMP) obtained from Giant Leucaena wood were measured and compared with those of thermomechanical pulp (TMP) and chemithermomechanical pulp (Na2SO3-CTMP).The weighted average fiber length of Na2SO3+NaOH-CTMP was 0.75mm, which was longer than those of TMP (0.53mm) and Na2SO3-CTMP (0.55mm).The specific surface area increased in the order TMP (4.5m2/g)<Na2SO3-CTMP (5.2m2/g)<Na2SO3+NaOH-CTMP (7.8m2/g). The large surface area of Na2SO3+NaOH-CTMP can be ascribed to the formation of fibrils and films-like particles on the fiber surface. The degree of internal fibrillation was higher in Na2SO3+NaOH-CTMP than in TMP or in Na2SO3-CTMP.The high sheet strength of Na2SO3+NaOH-CTMP can be explained on the basis of the development of internal and external fibrillation by the addition of NaOH.