cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pdx1 and other factors that regulate pancreatic β-cell survival

A progressive reduction in β-cell mass occurs in the evolution of diabetes. Thus understanding the mechanisms responsible for this reduction in β-cell mass is important for understanding the pathogenesis of diabetes and in developing novel approaches to prevention and treatment. Pancreatic duodenal homeobox 1 (Pdx1) is a transcription factor that plays a central role in pancreatic β-cell function and survival. Complete deficiency of Pdx1 is associated with pancreatic agenesis, and partial deficiency leads to severe β-cell dysfunction, and increases β-cell death and diabetes both in rodent and human. Chronic hyperglycaemia and dyslipidaemia, which are major features of type 2 diabetes, cause β-cell dysfunction via reduced Pdx1 expression. Inhibition of insulin/insulin-like growth factor (Igf) signalling followed by reduced Pdx1 expression is a common pathway induced by the majority of the mechanisms in apoptotic β-cells. Although the report so far paid little attention to non-apoptotic β-cell death (autophagy and necrosis), we expect these are also involved in the pathogenesis of diabetes. The potential role of Pdx1 in non-apoptotic β-cell death should also be considered in future studies in diabetes, and in attempts to develop novel agents that target this process for prevention and treatment of the disorder.
Performance of DMSA algorithm in hybrid sensor networks

We report results on dynamic medium switching algorithm (DMSA). This algorithm is used to decide on which interface to use when hybrid nodes are present in a wireless sensor networks. These hybrid nodes have a power line communications (PLC) interface as well as a radio frequency (RF) interface. The algorithm decision on selecting the appropriate interface for communications takes into account long-term stability of the link, packet error rate on the link, it uses an exponential backoff as well as it defers notification to routing layer to avoid fluctuations in routing decisions. The obtained results show that the algorithm improves packet delivery, lowers routing overhead, and improves the overall network lifetime.
The electric-field dependence of the capture rate of electrons by N2O dissolved in Ar OR Xe

Abstract It is shown that the electric-field dependence of the capture rate of electrons by N 2 O can be understood on the basis of the electric-field enhancement of the tunneling rate between an intermediate excited state and the ground state of O − created after the dissociation of N 2 O − .
The arts and literature of India

This special issue of the International journal of Hindu studies on India's arts and literature has been a delight to assemble. The authors of the essays collected here have produced exemplary studies of India's artistic and literary heritage. Their work deserves wide circulation. In the interest of brevity and to allow their essays as much space as possible, this Introduction will only hint at the content of the essays that follow. One theme that links all these essays is that artistic works are performances. David Gitomer's study of the raudra rasa, or furious emotional state, in poetics and drama highlights the gendered way in which this state is depicted in gastra literature. Laurie Patton's essay on the uses of poetry in Vedic ritual emphasizes the artistic and interpretive skill employed by the ritual performer. Michael Meister's review article on the National Museum of Art's exhibition of ancient Cambodian sculpture shows how Hindu cosmology was instantiated on the ground at Angkor Vat, its builders articulating in stone a vision of cosmic order. Alf Hiltebeitel's application of 'primary process' to the Mahabharata and Ramaya.na links those Sanskrit narratives with vernacular-language folk epics recited and performed throughout India. Mandakranta Bose's study of the hybrid performance genre called uparapaka shows it to be a mixture of drama and dance and clarifies the relationships among various subgenres. These articles, written by some of the finest scholars of India's literature, drama, and art, constitute this special issue of the journal. We hope that their work will provide for the reader new perspectives on India's civilization.
Muscle function in rheumatic disease patients treated with corticosteroids.

Clinical and experimental data indicate that long-term corticosteroid use leads to atrophy of the type 2 muscle fibers. The purpose of this study was to characterize and quantify the nature of muscle function in rheumatic disease patients who have been on long-term corticosteroid therapy. Quadriceps function (i.e., peak torque and power) in 19 patients (11 with rheumatoid arthritis, five with systemic lupus erythematosis, and 3 other) and 11 age- and activity-matched normal controls was measured with an isokinetic dynamometer (Cybex II), during four constant velocity movements. Power was significantly lower for the patients at all speeds. At the higher speeds the patients' deficit in power production increased as indicated by a difference in the slopes of power-velocity regression lines. Measures of peak torque could not be consistently used to differentiate the groups. Patients with rheumatic diseases receiving corticosteroids have a decreased ability to generate muscle power. The method described allows for quantification of these deficits in a clinical setting.
Computational Fluid Dynamics within Bifurcated Abdominal Aortic Stent-Grafts:

Purpose:To assess the hemodynamic forces on a bifurcated abdominal aortic stent-graft under realistic conditions of flow, blood pressure, and sac pressure.Methods:Computational fluid dynamics was used to study the temporal and spatial variations in surface pressure and shear through the cardiac cycle on models of bifurcated stent-grafts derived from computed tomography in 4 patients who had previously undergone endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). The trunk, bifurcation, and limbs of the graft were analyzed separately and as parts of a unified whole. Analyses were repeated under varying conditions of sac pressure, reflecting different conditions of perigraft flow and sac diameter change.Results:Pressure-related forces were far larger than flow-related forces in all 3 segments of all 4 cases. The largest forces acted at the bifurcation of the stent-graft. High sac pressures, seen in patients with endoleak or aneurysm dilatation, were associated with reduced transmural pressure and low-pr...
One hundred years of schizophrenia: A meta-analysis of the outcome literature

Objective: This study was undertaken to assess the twentieth-century literature on outcome in schizophrenia for historical trends that might be associated with changes in diagnostic and therapeutic practice and to test the hypothesis that both improved biological treatment and changes in diagnostic criteria have influenced outcome. Method: Meta-analysis ofthe international literature on outcome in schizophrenia or dementia praecox from 1 895 to 1 992 identified 821 studies; 320 ofthese, with 51,800 subjects in 368 cohorts, met the inclusion criteria for the study. Results: Only 40.2% of patients were considered improved after follow-ups averaging 5.6 years (range=1-40). Outcome was significantly better when patients were diagnosed according to systems with broad criteria (46.5% were improved) or undefined criteria (41 .0% were improved) rather than narrow criteria (27.3% were improved). The proportion of patients who improved increased significantly after mid-century (for 1 956-1 985 versus 1 895-1 955, 48.5% versus 35.4%), probably reflecting improved treatment as wellas a broadened concept of schizophrenia. However, in the past decade, the average rate of favorable outcome has declined to 36.4%, perhaps reflecting the re-emergence of narrow diagnostic concepts. Conclusions: Overall, less than half of patients diagnosed with schizophrenia have shown substantial clinical improvement after follow-up averaging nearly 6 years. Despite considerable gains in improvement rates after mid-century, there has been a decline since the 1 970s. These historical changes probably reflect improved treatment, shifts in diagnostic criteria, and selection bias related to changes in health care. (Am J Psychiatry 1994; 151:1409-1416)
The impact of insurance status on actuarial survival in hospitalized trauma patients: When do they die?

Background: Previous work has suggested that insurance status, gender, and ethnicity all have an independent association with mortality after trauma. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether these factors exerted survival impact that could be observed throughout the hospital stay. Methods: Using the National Trauma Data Bank (version 7.0), a Cox proportional hazards survival analysis was performed on young (19-30 years old) trauma patients to mitigate the impact of comorbid confounders. Variables included in the model were age, gender, ethnicity, Injury Severity Score, presence of shock at presentation, mechanism of injury, insurance status, year of admission, teaching status of the hospital, diagnosis of substance abuse or psychotic disorders, and complications after admission. Rate ratios (RRs) comparing the slopes of the adjusted survival curves were calculated using the Mantel-Cox method. Results: A total of 192,488 young trauma patients were identified with complete data. Increased hazard of death was seen in patients who were uninsured (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.69, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.59-1.80, p < 0.001), of a minority ethnicity (HR = 1.08, 95% CI = 1.01-1.15, p = 0.025) or men (HR = 1.14, 95% CI = 1.04-1.23, p = 0.004). RRs were significantly larger between insurance status (RR = 1.75, 95% CI = 1.58-1.94, p < 0.001) than between race (RR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.10-1.37, p < 0.001) or between gender (RR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.01-1.32, p = 0.030). Conclusion: Risk of death on the first hospital day after injury differs by insurance status, and this disparity becomes more pronounced throughout the hospital stay. Further study is necessary to determine whether this is a result of additional unmeasured patient covariates with insurance status or a difference in provider behavior in response to patient insurance status.
Bond-valence sums for Tc–O systems from EXAFS data

Abstract Literature data for structures containing exclusively Tc–O bonds were used to calculate unit-valence parameters R 0 for Tc(VII), Tc(VI), Tc(V) (five-coordinate), Tc(V) (six-coordinate), Tc(IV) and Tc(III) as 1.909, 1.955, 1.870, 1.859, 1.841 and 1.768 A, respectively. A second method of estimating R 0 was developed to validate the calculated values for these oxidation states because crystallographic data are limited. The method was first tested and shown to be valid using literature data for Cr, Mn, Fe and Co complexes. The validated R 0 values for Tc were used to calculate bond-valence sums (BVS) for Tc solids and aqueous solutions using EXAFS data for the bond distances and coordination numbers. The calculated BVS showed good agreement with the expected values for the assumed Tc oxidation states.
Thermodynamic Features of Benzene-1,2-Diphosphonic Acid Complexes with Several Metal Ions

Among his many contributions to the advancement of f-element chemistry and separation science, Professor Gregory R. Choppin's research group completed numerous investigations featuring the application of distribution techniques to the determination of metal complexation equilibrium quotients. Most of these studies focused on the chemistry of lanthanide and actinide complexes. In keeping with that tradition, this report discusses the complex formation equilibrium constants for complexes of trivalent europium (Eu3+) with benzene-1,2-diphosphonic acid (H4BzDP) determined using solvent extraction distribution experiments in 0.2 M (Na,H)ClO4 media in the temperature range of 5 – 45°C. Protonation constants for HnBzDP4-n and stoichiometry and stability of BzDP4- complexes with Zn2+, Ni2+, and Cu2+ have also been determined using potentiometric titration (at I = 0.1 M) and 31P NMR spectroscopy. Heats of protonation of HnBzDPn-4 species have been determined by titration calorimetry. From the temperature dependenc...
Mechanical and swelling properties of polyacrylamide gel spheres

Abstract Spheres of crosslinked acrylamide-methylene bisacrylamide copolymer were produced by suspension polymerization. By introducing a vibrating stream of aqueous solution into an organic matrix, particle sizes of 0.33 ± 0.06 to 0.99 ± 0.41 mm in diameter resulted. The swelling of gel spheres in water was compared to that of larger ‘bulk’ gels, and a significant amount of hydrolysis occurred in the spheres due to the presence of tetramethylethylenediamine (TEMED), used as an initiator. The dependence of the elastic modulus of the gel spheres upon the crosslinker concentration was non-linear, even in the regime where linearity is observed for bulk gels; this appears to be due to the varying amounts of TEMED that diffuses in the spheres and is known to affect the modulus of bulk gels.
Declines in strength and balance in older adults with chronic knee pain: a 30-month longitudinal, observational study

Objectives To document changes in lower extremity strength and balance over a 30-month period in older adults with chronic knee pain, and to identify relationships among these variables that may prove useful in designing a subsequent clinical intervention trial. Methods This longitudinal, 30-month, observational study was designed to examine the association of physical, psychological, social, and environmental factors with severity and progression of physical disability caused by chronic knee pain. This article will focus on 2 physical measures: strength and dynamic balance. The participants were a cohort of 480 adults 65 years of age or older with chronic knee pain. Measurements included: 1) force platform dynamic balance measure of the center of pressure excursion during a forward and subsequent backward lean, 2) isokinetic strength measures of concentric and eccentric knee flexion and extension, and concentric ankle plantar flexion and dorsiflexion, and 3) body mass index and a knee pain scale to measure obesity and knee pain, respectively. Results A maximum-likelihood analysis revealed an overall significant decline in knee (P < 0.001) and ankle (P = 0.012) strength, and balance (P < 0.001) after a 30-month followup period. Participants with greater knee strength at baseline had less expected decline in balance at followup than their weaker counterparts (4.2% versus 7.7% for the 75th versus 25th percentiles of strength; P = 0.023). However, the absolute decline in balance over 30 months was similar regardless of baseline ankle strength. Conclusions Adults age ≥65 years with chronic knee pain experience significant declines in balance and lower extremity strength over a 30-month period. Moreover, greater knee and ankle muscular strength is associated with better balance. Previous studies have shown that weight training is effective in improving balance in older adults with knee osteoarthritis. Taken together, these studies present a strong rationale for incorporating weight training into an exercise prescription for older adults with chronic knee pain.
Helmet mounted display system for attack helicopters

Abstract The particulars of a miniature crt display for helicopter aircrews are discussed. The crt clips onto a helmet and with the aid of optics creates a virtual image for the pilot.
G-protein regulation of an L-type calcium channel current in canine jejunal circular smooth muscle.

Calcium entry into smooth muscle cells is essential to maintain contractility. In canine jejunal circular smooth muscle cells the predominant calcium entry pathway is through L-type calcium channels. The aim of this study was to determine the G-protein regulation of L-type calcium channel current (ICaL) in isolated canine jejunal circular smooth muscle cells. Barium (80 mm) was used as the charge carrier. GTP-γS and GTP increased maximal inward current from 118.7 ± 12 pA to 227.5 ± 21.5 pA (n= 8) and 174.6 ± 10.1 pA (n= 6) respectively. The increase in inward current was blocked by nifedipine suggesting it was through L-type calcium channels. Pertussis toxin did not alter baseline ICaL while cholera toxin increased ICaL from 125 ± 19 pA in controls (n= 6) to 347 ± 30 pA (n= 4). Staurosporine inhibited the increase in current evoked by GTP-γS and calyculin further increased ICaL over the increase evoked by GTP-γS. The results suggest that cholera toxin sensitive G-proteins activate L-type calcium channels in isolated canine jejunal circular smooth muscle cells through protein phosphorylation.
Impact of roof integrated PV orientation on the residential electricity peak demand

Abstract Peak electricity demand has been an issue in the Desert Southwest region of the US, due to extreme summer temperatures. To address this issue, a consortium was formed between the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Pulte Homes, and NV Energy. An energy efficient residential community was developed by the team in Las Vegas with approximately 200 homes to study substation-level peak reduction strategies. A summer peak reduction of more than 65%, between 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM, compared to code standard housing developments is the targeted goal of the project. Approximately 50 homes are already built and some are occupied. The energy performances of the homes have been monitored and are presented in this paper. Several peak electric load reduction strategies such as energy efficiency in buildings, roof integrated photovoltaics (PV) and direct load control have been applied. Though all the homes in the developed community are installed with 1.8 kW p PV systems, the orientation of the PV system depends on the building orientation. Focus of this paper is to find the impact of PV orientation on the peak load from a building. In addition, different time-of-use (TOU) energy pricing options are offered by the local electrical utility company. Hence it is important to find an optimal pricing option for each building. A computer model has been developed for one of the homes in the new development using building energy simulation code, ENERGY-10. Calculations on the PV orientations have shown that a south and 220° (i.e. 40° west of due south) orientations are economically optimal for homes enrolled to flat electricity pricing schedule and time of use pricing respectively. As predicted by the simulations, the energy efficiency methods in the home have decreased the total annual energy by 38% compared to a code standard home of the same size. Further, the energy efficiency methods in the building coupled with a 220° oriented PV and 1.1 °C increase in thermostat temperature for three hours (from 3:00 to 6:00 PM) reduced the peak energy demand by 62% compared to a code standard building of the same size. Battery storage is the other option that will be considered in the project at a later time which is expected to carry the project well beyond its peak reduction goals.
Sterol methyltransferase: functional analysis of highly conserved residues by site-directed mutagenesis.

Sterol methyltransferase (SMT), the enzyme from Saccharomyces cerevisiae that catalyzes the conversion of sterol acceptor in the presence of AdoMet to C-24 methylated sterol and AdoHcy, was analyze...
Chocolate consumption is inversely associated with prevalent coronary heart disease: The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Family Heart Study

Summary Background & aims Epidemiologic studies have suggested beneficial effects of flavonoids on cardiovascular disease. Cocoa and particularly dark chocolate are rich in flavonoids and recent studies have demonstrated blood pressure lowering effects of dark chocolate. However, limited data are available on the association of chocolate consumption and the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). We sought to examine the association between chocolate consumption and prevalent CHD. Methods We studied in a cross-sectional design 4970 participants aged 25–93 years who participated in the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) Family Heart Study. Chocolate intake was assessed through a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. We used generalized estimating equations to estimate adjusted odds ratios. Results Compared to subjects who did not report any chocolate intake, odds ratios (95% CI) for CHD were 1.01 (0.76–1.37), 0.74 (0.56–0.98), and 0.43 (0.28–0.67) for subjects consuming 1–3 times/month, 1–4 times/week, and 5+ times/week, respectively ( p for trend Conclusions These data suggest that consumption of chocolate is inversely related with prevalent CHD in a general United States population.
Experimental Analysis of Moisture Intrusion into the Al/Li-Polysulfone Interface

Abstract Aluminum-polymer bonds in hot-moist environments are subject to degradation due to moisture intrusion into the bonded joint and the resulting conversion of the surface oxide to the hydroxide. In order to analyze moisture intrusion, work has been done on diffusion and/or solubility characteristics of humid air or water in polymer materials. These investigations have been concerned with the actual solution and transport behavior of water in resins, especially the influence of morphology, temperature, or concentration, which affects the moisture absorption and desorption of homogeneous materials. However, such testing cannot give information on the effect of water at the substrate/adhesive interface but it can be used to screen water-sensitive adhesives.
Information Desk Referrals: Implementing an Office Statistics Database

In fall 2006, Colorado State University Libraries in Fort Collins, Colorado, underwent an administrative reorganization. Part of this reorganization involved changing Morgan Libraries’ Reference Desk to an Information Desk from which staff and student assistants would provide reference referrals to librarians. To gather statistics and track the success of this new service, the College Liaison Librarians, formerly known as Subject Librarians, implemented an office statistics database to record and track referrals received in their offices from Information Desk staff. This database evolved to also provide a centralized online area to collect numbers of office reference transactions. This paper discusses the reasons behind the office statistics database’s creation and the statistics it provides CSU Libraries College Liaison Librarians.
Precipitation of Calcite by Indigenous Microorganisms to Strengthen Liquefiable Soils

Enrichments for indigenous microorganisms capable of hydrolyzing urea in the presence of CaCl2 were performed on potentially liquefiable saturated soils in both the laboratory and in situ. Following enrichment, treatment of soils with nutrients, CaCl2 and urea resulted in significant in situ precipitation of calcite, even at depth, by indigenous microorganisms. The biomineralized soils showed properties that indicate calcite precipitation increased their resistance to seismic-induced liquefaction.
Dopaminergic modulation of respiratory timing mechanisms in carotid body-denervated dogs

The role of central dopaminergic mechanisms in ventilatory control was investigated by monitoring phrenic motorneuronal output of anesthetized dogs which were vagotomized, paralyzed and artificially ventilated and in which bilateral carotid body denervation had been performed. Intravenous administration of dopamine (DA) had no effect on phrenic output in these dogs. In contrast, apomorphine (APO), a potent dopaminergic agonist, which unlike dopamine, crosses the blood-brain barrier consistently and significantly prolonged inspiratory duration and shortened expiratory duration without altering phrenic amplitude. The dopaminergic antagonist haloperidol produced a frequency-dependent decrease in basal phrenic minute activity and reversed or abolished APO-induced changes in the phrenic profile. These data verify the specificity of APO for dopamine receptors and further suggest that DA receptors in the central nervous system exert a tonic effect on central respiratory control mechanisms. In contrast, domperidone, a dopaminergic antagonist which poorly penetrates the blood-brain barrier did not alter basal phrenic characteristics. Moreover, with the exception of inspiratory duration, domperidone did not antagonize APO-induced alterations in the phrenic profile. We conclude that dopaminergic mechanisms within the brain or spinal cord modulate timing relationships of central respiratory output.
Nosocomial pneumococcal bacteremia.

• In five years we studied 56 episodes of pneumococcal bacteremia. Twenty-three (41%) were nosocomial and 33 (59%) community acquired. Most of our patients were elderly men with multiple underlying diseases; however, those patients with nosocomial infections had a significantly higher incidence of malignant neoplasms (57% vs 24%), poor functional status (70% vs 25%), and ultimately fatal underlying disease (61% vs 21%). Alcoholism was more common among the patients with community-acquired bacteremia (45% vs 17%). Nosocomial infections carried a significantly higher overall mortality (73.9% vs 45.4%). The mortality directly related to the pneumococcal bacteremia was also higher (52% vs 39%), but not significantly. Most of the isolated strains were serotypes present in the new pneumococcal vaccine, which only one study patient had received. Mixed pneumococcal bacteremia with gram-negative bacilli was more frequent in nosocomial infections. Streptococcus pneumoniae can be a nosocomial pathogen in elderly, debilitated patients. Pneumococcal vaccination should be incorporated in a hospital-based prevention program for high-risk patients. ( Arch Intern Med 1986;146:1509-1512)
Becoming Self and Mother: Posthuman Liminality in Toni Morrison's Beloved

This essay examines Toni Morrison's Beloved (1987) through posthumanist theories of liminal temporality and subjectivity. By positioning her women characters as both mothers and daughters, simultaneously past- and future-oriented, Morrison gestures toward a posthumanistic articulation of becoming-subjectivity. The liminality Morrison puts forward in Beloved suggests that black power need not be rooted solely in the past: the future can serve as an accessible site of authority and resistance as well.
FreeLoader: An Open Source Universal Testing Machine for High-Throughput Experimentation

We present a low cost, desktop size, open source, universal testing machine, designed for inexpensive high-throughput material testing. The tester can apply tensile and compressive loads up to 5 kN at rates ranging from 2 mm/min to 30 mm/min. Force measurements are achieved with ±1.8 N accuracy. The parts list for this machine represents an order of magnitude reduction in the cost per testing unit as compared to commercial systems. We describe the design and construction of the tester and validate its performance. The design, parts list, control software, and user manual are made available freely online under the open source BSD license.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Using Institutional Selection Factors to Develop Recruiting Profiles: Marketing Small, Private Colleges and Universities to Prospective Student Athletes

The purpose of this study was to identify important college choice factors for entering freshmen student athletes at small, private higher education institutions that compete in an National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics–member athletic conference representing small, private schools across the southeastern United States. Using Gabert, Hale, and Montalvo's (1999) Student-Athlete College Choice Profile, the study analyzed 23 factors in college selections of 247 freshmen student athletes. Findings showed playing opportunities and relationships with head coaches to be the top-rated factors, while significant differences between males and females and between major- and minor-sport athletes indicate that unique recruiting strategies for those groups may be necessary at small institutions.
Comparative cocarcinogenic effects of crocidolite asbestos, hematite, kaolin and carbon in implanted tracheal organ cultures.

Abstract The carcinogenicity of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), 3-methylcholanthrene (3 MC) in hamster tracheal tissues was examined after its adsorption on to four particulates—crocidolite asbestos, hematite, kaolin and carbon. After precipitation of 3 MC-coated particulates on the epithelial surface of the tracheal explants, the cultures were maintained for 4 weeks in vitro before either morphologic examination or implantation into syngeneic animals. Use of radiolabelled 3 MC made it possible to determine the relative amounts of the PAH adsorbed to and released from the particles with time. Tumours, the majority of which were carcinomas, appeared after exposure of organ cultures to 3 MC-coated particles, but not after exposure to particles alone. When total numbers of tumours (i.e. carcinomas, sarcomas and undifferentiated malignant tumours) were considered, the relative cocarcinogenicity of the dusts was crocidolite asbestos > hematite > kaolin > carbon. However, differences were not observed in the numbers of carcinomas induced by 3 MC-coated asbestos, hematite or kaolin. Relatively few carcinomas developed in animals exposed to carbon coated with 3 MC. Carcinogenicity was not related consistently to either the affinity of the particle for 3 MC or the elution of the hydrocarbon from the dust. For example, carbon adsorbed more 3 MC than the other particulates, but elution was minimal. Hematite released the greatest amount of PAH, whereas kaolin and asbestos eluted appreciably smaller quantities. Our data suggest that factors other than particle-enhanced availability of PAH are important in carcinogenesis in the respiratory tract. Alternative mechanisms of cocarcinogenesis by particulates include either cytotoxicity and the resultant augmentation of DNA synthesis or squamous metaplasia (or both).
Loss in Virulence of Yellow Fever Virus serially passed in HeLa Cells.

SummaryYellow fever virus that was passed one and three times in HeLa cells was characterized with respect to the following: (a) adaptation to growth in cell culture as indicated by the time required to obtain maximal titer, (b) level of titer, (c) production of a cytopathic effect (cpe), (d) stability of virus when aerosolized at either 50% or 80% relative humidity (RH), and (e) the loss of virulence of viral preparations for rhesus monkeys infected by the respiratory route. Four viral populations which possessed different combinations of these properties were obtained. In 11 of 12 experiments, one passage in cell culture yielded a virus population (Ty-1) that titered to 107 MICLD50/ml on day 5, that failed to cause cell lysis (cpe), that was equally stable at 50% and 80% RH, and that was lethal for monkeys. In contrast, in 4 of 6 experiments, 3 passages in cell culture yielded a virus pouplation (Ty-3) that titered 108 MICLD50 or greater on day 3, that induced a cpe, that had a greater sensitivity to 50...
Lack of Pharmacokinetic Interaction between Amdoxovir and Reduced- and Standard-Dose Zidovudine in HIV-1-Infected Individuals

Amdoxovir (AMDX) inhibits HIV-1 containing the M184V/I mutation and is rapidly absorbed and deaminated to its active metabolite, β-d-dioxolane guanosine (DXG). DXG is synergistic with zidovudine (ZDV) in HIV-1-infected primary human lymphocytes. A recent in silico pharmacokinetic (PK)/enzyme kinetic study suggested that ZDV at 200 mg twice a day (b.i.d.) may reduce toxicity without compromising efficacy relative to the standard 300-mg b.i.d. dose. Therefore, an intense PK clinical study was conducted using AMDX/placebo, with or without ZDV, in 24 subjects randomized to receive oral AMDX at 500 mg b.i.d., AMDX at 500 mg plus ZDV at 200 or 300 mg b.i.d., or ZDV at 200 or 300 mg b.i.d. for 10 days. Full plasma PK profiles were collected on days 1 and 10, and complete urine sampling was performed on day 9. Plasma and urine concentrations of AMDX, DXG, ZDV, and ZDV-5′-O-glucuronide (GZDV) were measured using a validated liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method. Data were analyzed using noncompartmental methods, and multiple comparisons were performed on the log-transformed parameters, at steady state. Coadministration of AMDX with ZDV did not significantly change either of the plasma PK parameters or percent recovery in the urine of AMDX, DXG, or ZDV/GZDV. Larger studies with AMDX/ZDV, with a longer duration, are warranted.
Depression is not associated with peripheral insulin resistance in patients with chronic hepatitis C infection.

Summary Depression is common in individuals infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV), and both depression and HCV infection are independently associated with insulin resistance (IR). To evaluate the relationship between depression and IR, among other factors, in an HCV-infected cohort. In this cross-sectional analysis, seventy-four non-type 2 diabetic, noncirrhotic, HCV-infected patients underwent comprehensive clinical, histologic and metabolic evaluation. IR was assessed directly with an insulin suppression test by measuring steady-state plasma glucose (SSPG) levels during continuous infusions of octreotide, glucose and insulin. Logistic regression modelling was used to evaluate predictors associated with depression. Thirty-nine (53%) patients were depressed, and 21 (54%) depressed patients were on at least one antidepressant. A higher estimated proportion of depressed patients were Caucasian (51% vs 20%, P = 0.005), unemployed (69% vs 49%, P = 0.07), heavier smokers (18 pack-years vs 13 pack-years, P = 0.07), on substance abuse therapy (16% vs 3%, P = 0.06) and had lower HDL levels (1.2 mmol/L vs 1.4 mmol/L, P = 0.01). The mean SSPG levels in depressed and nondepressed patients were 7.3 and 8.3 mmol/L (P = 0.45), respectively. In multipredictor adjusted analysis, only Caucasian race (OR 4.19, 95% CI 1.42–12.35, P = 0.009) and lower HDL (OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.89–0.99, P = 0.046) were associated with depression. In conclusion, although prevalent, depression was not associated with peripheral IR in this HCV-infected cohort. Attention to other modifiable factors associated with depression in the HCV-infected population is warranted.
THE DEVELOPMENT OF CHILDREN'S ENJOYMENT AND COMPREHENSION OF THEMATIC RIDDLES

Homonymic joking riddles representing two types of theme (neutral and aggressive) and two types of incongruity structure (logical and illogical) were administered to 90 elementary school boys evincing low, moderate, or high levels of behavioral aggression. Contrary to expectation, aggressive content in logical incongruity riddles diminished enjoyment for older children at all three behavioral levels. Alternative explanations for this effect are considered, including the possibility that it reflects the struggle of this age group to cope adaptively with hostile impulses.
Tlg2p, a Yeast Syntaxin Homolog That Resides on the Golgi and Endocytic Structures

Intracellular membrane fusion events in eukaryotic cells are thought to be mediated by protein-protein interactions between soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) complex proteins. We have identified and analyzed a new yeast syntaxin homolog, Tlg2p. Tlg2p is unique among known syntaxin family proteins in possessing a sizeable hydrophilic domain of 63 amino acids that is C-terminal to the membrane spanning region and nonessential for Tlg2p function. Tlg2p resides on the endosome and late Golgi by co-localization with an endocytic intermediate and co-fractionation with markers for both endosomes and late Golgi. Cells depleted for Tlg2p missort a portion of carboxypeptidase Y and are defective in endocytosis. In addition, we report that Tlg2p forms a SEC18-dependent SNARE complex with Snc2p, a vesicle SNARE known to function in Golgi to plasma membrane trafficking. Based on these findings we propose that Tlg2p is a t-SNARE that functions in transport from the endosome to the late Golgi and on the endocytic pathway.
To β or not to β: Canonical β‐catenin signaling pathway and ovarian development

The mammalian embryonic gonad is a unique organ primordium in that it can adopt two different developmental fates-namely, differentiate as either a testis or an ovary-with dramatic consequences for an individual. While a molecular cascade culminating in testis development is well characterized, the ovarian pathways still remain enigmatic. The canonical Wnt/beta-catenin signaling implements a conserved mechanism of regulating gene expression that is integral to development of all metazoans. In this review, we summarize the recent evidence that suggests a central role for this signaling pathway in the development of the mammalian female.
Public Images for Private Spaces? The Place of Sculpture in the Georgian Domestic Interior

This paper examines the increasing prominence of sculpture within the Georgian interior in terms of the relationship between the (apparently) public nature of sculpture and recent discussions of the Habermasian public sphere. In what way was the (publicness' of sculpture constituted and to what degree is it legitimate to read this mode of representation in terms of its role within the emergent public sphere? How might the incorporation of sculpture within the interior then be understood? The use by neo-Palladian architects of reliefs and busts within the interior registers the complexity of the relationship between public and private. If the public was embedded in the private, this was manifested in material terms through the greater visibility of sculpture within the interior, fust as sculptures such as statues and monuments were being reconfigured so as to take account of new expectations of what constituted the public, so the apparently public art of sculpture could be more easily accommodated within the seemingly private spaces of the domestic interior.
Improving Pain Management in Long-Term Care Facilities

Improving pain management in long-term care facilities has several unique barriers in comparison to the acute hospital setting. To address these barriers the Medical College of Wisconsin Palliative Care Program began a project in 1996, initially working with 87 long-term care facilities, to improve pain management practices through a series of educational and quality improvement steps. This article will review the overall structure, results, strengths and weaknesses of this approach to improving pain management in this important site of clinical care. This article was excerpted from a thematic issue, "Promoting Better Pain Management in Long-Term Care Facilities," Volume 3, Number 1, 2001 of the online journal Innovations in End-of-Life Care at .
Influence of Pressure and Temperature on the Crystal Structure of Deuterated Ammonium Copper Tutton Salt, (ND4)2[Cu(D2O)6](SO4)2

The influence of pressure on the unit cell parameters of deuterated ammonium copper(II) sulfate hexahydrate at various temperatures from 50 to 325 K obtained from pulsed neutron powder diffraction ...
Triumphalism, fear and humiliation: The psychological legacy of Sri Lanka's civil war

The Sri Lankan government's recent victory over the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) presents a unique opportunity to resolve the long-standing ethnic conflict in the country. However, the Tamil population's distrust of the government will not change easily. Furthermore, the Tamil diaspora located in Europe, Australia, and Canada believed that the LTTE was the only force that could protect the Tamil people from annihilation, and the war's end has left them confused and humiliated. Significant psychological hurdles – including group narcissism on the part of the majority Sinhalese, feelings of vulnerability and distrust on the part of Sri Lankan Tamils, and a sense of humiliation on the part of the Tamil diaspora – need to be surmounted in order to reach a successful reconciliation.
Application of recursive filters in edge detection of images

The use of IIR (infinite impulse response) filters for edge detection is studied. IIR filters are shown to perform better than the FIR (finite impulse response) filters for this application. It is also shown that the computational savings in using IIR filters is quite significant. >
Primary oral infection of infants with Streptococcus mutans

Abstract Strep. mutans was not detected in 16 normal predentate infants, but was isolated from 3 43 infants with 1 to 5 primary incisor teeth and 12 42 infants with 6 to 8 incisors. The salivary level of Strep. mutans was determined for the 42 mothers of the infants with only 6 to 8 incisors. The difference in the distribution of the salivary levels of Strep. mutans within the maternal populations of infected versus non-infected infants was statistically significant (p = 0.03). Ten mothers harboured greater than 105 colony-forming units (CFUs) of Strep. mutans per ml. saliva. The organism was detected in 6 of their infants. Of 13 mothers with levels less than 103 CFUs per ml. saliva only 2 of their infants harboured the organism.
709-4 Intraaortic Balloon Pump Counterpulsation in Octogenarians: Outcome and Complications

The use of intraaortic balloon pump counterpulsation (IABP) in octogenarians has not been well defined. Pts 80 years of age or older, who underwent percutaneous insertion of IABP at the Beth Israel Hospital between 1987 and 1994, inclusively, were identified. 48 Pts had 49 IABP and are the focus of this report. The mean age was 83 ± 3 (range 80–90) years and 41% were women. 6 Pts had diabetes mellitus and 6 Pts had hypertension. The indication for counterpulsation was acute myocardial infarction in 42 Pts (87%) with cardiogenic shock in 11 Pt (23%) and refractory angina in 6 Pts (12%). Mean PCWP was 21 ± 11 mmHg and mean cardiac index was 2.5 ± 0.7 L/min/m2. Baseline creatinine was 1.4 ± 0.6 mg/dl. Peak CK-MB in Pts with myocardial infarctions was 112 ± 128 Lu. Mean catheter size was 9.7 ± 0.6 French and 9 insertions (18%) were sheathless. 14 Pts (29%) underwent percutaneous revascularization and 28 Pts (55%) had coronary artery bypass surgery ± valve replacement. The mean diastolic augmentation was 51 ± 31 mmHg and the mean systolic unloading was 22 ± 18 mmHg. The average hospital stay was 16 ± 12 days. Strokes were seen in 3 Pts (6%). 9 Pt (19%) had vascular complications requiring surgical repair. Pts with smaller body surface area had a higher vascular complication rate (p = 0.04). There were 19 (40%) in-hospital deaths and 4 deaths on follow-up. None of the deaths were related to IABP. The average duration of follow-up was 14 ± 21 months. The 30 day mortality was 40% and the one year mortality was 47%. A history of hypertension and the presence of cardiogenic shock were found to be independent predictors of poor survival (p = 0.004, P l 0.001, respectively). Conclusion While IABP effectively augments diastolic BP and unloads the left ventricle in octogenarians, its use is associated with a high mortality rate which may reflect the poor prognosis of myocardial infarction and shock in this population. Vascular complications are higher than historically reported in younger patients and are inversely related to body surface area.
Testing a Nonlinear Regression Specification: A Nonregular Case

Abstract A statistical test of whether an additive nonlinear term in the response function should be omitted from a nonlinear regression specification is considered. The regularity conditions used to obtain the asymptotic distributions of the customary test statistics are violated when the null hypothesis of omission is true. Moreover, standard iterative algorithms are likely to perform poorly when the data support the null hypothesis. Methods designed to circumvent these mathematical and computational difficulties are described and illustrated.
Peptide synthesis catalyzed by an antibody containing a binding site for variable amino acids

Monoclonal antibodies, induced with a phosphonate diester hapten, catalyzed the coupling of p-nitrophenyl esters of N-acetyl valine, leucine, and phenylalanine with tryptophan amide to form the corresponding dipeptides. All possible stereoisomeric combinations of the ester and amide substrates were coupled at comparable rates. The antibodies did not catalyze the hydrolysis of the dipeptide product nor hydrolysis or racemization of the activated esters. The yields of the dipeptides ranged from 44 to 94 percent. The antibodies were capable of multiple turnovers at rates that exceeded the rate of spontaneous ester hydrolysis. This achievement suggests routes toward creating a small number of antibody catalysts for polypeptide syntheses.
Acute alcohol use temporally increases the odds of male perpetrated dating violence: a 90-day diary analysis.

Objective Despite an extensive theoretical literature on acute alcohol intoxication likely increasing the odds of aggression between intimate partners, there have been few temporal studies on the relation between alcohol use and increased odds of intimate partner violence (IPV). Moreover, the literature on the temporal relation between marijuana use and IPV is in its infancy. The existing temporal research has yet to examine in the same study the three distinct types of IPV that occur most often between partners: physical, psychological, and sexual. Thus, the present study examined the temporal relationship between acute alcohol use, marijuana use, and male perpetrated physical, psychological, and sexual dating violence.
Calcaneal osteomyelitis: an analysis of aetiology and pathogenic organisms

Summary Forty-nine cases of calcaneal osteomyelitis in 47 patients were evaluated between 1984 and 1993. Data on all osteomyelitis patients was collected prospectively in a computer data base. This data was reviewed to determine aetiology, pathogenic organisms and host characteristics of the patients. Aetiology was divided into five groups: diabetes mellitus ( n = 21); central nervous system lesion ( n = 10); post-traumatic ( n = 9); nail puncture wounds ( n = 5); and other ( n = 2). Each case was staged using the Cierny-Mader classification for osteomyelitis: IIA ( n = 3); IIB ( n = 16); IIIA ( n = 10); IIIB ( n = 18); IVB ( n = 2). Pathogenic organisms were categorized by each type of aetiology and host (A = uncompromised, B=compromised). Compromised hosts and patients with impaired sensation had more organisms cultured than uncompromised hosts. Treatment consisted of culture specific antibiotics (all); irrigation and debridement/partial calcanectomy (29); debridement with free flap (three); below knee amputation (10) and above knee amputation (one). All amputations were done in B hosts with impaired sensation. Eight of the 11 amputations were in diabetic patients. Patients with impaired sensation more commonly had multiple organisms cultured from their wounds and had a higher rate of amputation.