cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Estimating Life Scatter in Fretting Fatigue Crack Initiation

A new approach was developed to estimate the crack initiation life of a fretting contact while accounting for the variability in the fatigue response. This was accomplished using a modified application of the Smith-Watson-Topper (SWT) fatigue criterion. A combined finite–discrete element model of a cylinder-on-flat configuration incorporating material randomness and disorder via a Voronoi tessellation was developed. The SWT equation was used with this model to predict the crack initiation lives for multiple material domains. The predicted crack initiation lives displayed a large degree of scatter and were less conservative than previous deterministic implementations of the SWT parameter. The scatter in the predicted initiation lives was quantified using Weibull statistics.
Fish assemblages of interior tidal marsh channels in relation to environmental variables in the upper San Francisco Estuary

Tidal marsh wetlands represent critical habitat for many estuarine fishes and are particularly important to conserving and restoring native and at-risk species. We describe the seasonal and regional variation in the composition and abundance of fishes in interior tidal marsh channels in the upper San Francisco Estuary (SFE), and relate these to variation in environmental conditions. Fish were sampled quarterly using modified fyke nets from October 2003 to June 2005 in 18 interior tidal marsh channels spanning 3 distinct river systems: Petaluma River, Napa River and West Delta. We collected 116 samples and 9452 individuals of 30 fish species. Four non-native species dominated—Mississippi silverside, western mosquitofish, yellowfin goby, and rainwater killifish—with an additional 13 species occurring commonly (represented equally by natives and non-natives, residents and transients). Large seasonal differences in composition and abundance of fishes occurred, with the lowest abundances in winter and spring and highest abundances in summer and fall. Correlation of ordination scores and environmental variables further supported the importance of season, as well as fish species’ status (native vs. non-native), feeding preference (pelagic vs. demersal), and marsh utilization (resident vs. transient), as factors influencing fish assemblage composition. The proximity of the marsh systems to freshwater and marine influences, which largely control salinity and temperature variation, explained 26% of the variation in fish composition, while channel geomorphology explained 22%. We recommend that both edge habitat (which may be beneficial to fish foraging success) and the extent of tidal connectivity (which allows access for fishes), in addition to location along the estuarine gradient, be considered in designing and managing tidal marsh restoration.
Uptake of sodium fluorene-2-selenonate-75Se by spleen and of sodium N-7-fluorenylacetamido-2-selenonate-75Se by tumor in mice.

Two new radioactive compounds, sodium fluorene-2-selenonate-75Se, (II), and sodium N-7-fluorenylacetamido-2-selenonate-75Se, (V), have been synthesized. The tissue distribution of these compounds in tumor-bearing mice has been studied at different time intervals. The first compound localized itself in spleen, and its distribution was also studied in tumor-free mice. This compound gave quite favorable ratios of concentration in spleen to the concentration in tissues. The use of this compound in splenic scanning is suggested. The second compound was concentrated in tumor to a greater extent than in the vital organs, from which it was eliminated later, showing the affinity of the compound for the tumor tissue.
Pseudogout in the Temporomandibular Joint With Imaging, Arthroscopic, Operative, and Pathologic Findings. Report of an Unusual Case

The authors present a case of a 60-year-old woman with a destructive painful condition in the right temporomandibular joint (TMJ) that proved to be calcium pyrophosphate crystal deposits at subsequent biopsy examination. The patient presented with the chief complaints of pain and limitation that had not resolved with splint therapy, medications, and habit control. Magnetic resonance imaging studies showed internal derangement without reduction. Right TMJ arthroscopy with manipulation of the jaw under anesthesia showed unique findings of fronds of synovial tissue in the posterior joint space and areas of white matter. Because there was no long-term improvement in her clinical symptoms, she subsequently underwent arthroplasty of the right joint, with the white material clearly seen at surgery, and the biopsy examination confirmed the clinical and arthroscopic impression of pseudogout. The presentation, diagnosis, pathology, and treatment of pseudogout of the TMJ are discussed.
Diagnosis of atrial fibrillation from surface electrocardiograms based on computer-detected atrial activity

A computerized method to detect atrial fibrillatory activity on the surface electrocardiogram is presented. After ventricular activity was canceled by creating a remainder electrocardiogram, significant differences were found in the percent power of the remainder electrocardiograms for a group of rhythms with atrial fibrillation (mean ± SD; lead V1, 47.4 ± 29.7%; lead II, 39.4 ± 26.8%) and a control group (irregular rhythms or rhythms without readily detectable P waves; lead V1, 17.6 ± 14.6%; lead II, 19.2 ± 13.9%) for both leads (p < 0.0001). A discrimination algorithm that classified a rhythm as atrial fibrillation if the percent power was greater than 32% and if noncoupled P waves were not present had a specificity of 90.0% and a sensitivity of 69.7% for the training set and a specificity of 87.8% and a sensitivity of 68.3% for the test set. In addition, the algorithm correctly detected all 66 of the 66 sinus rhythms tested. The algorithm produced good results that may be incorporated into arrhythmia interpretation systems to improve their specificity.
Lemon Oil Analysis. 3. Rapid; Capillary Gas Chromatography With Combined flow and Temperature Programming

SUMMARY– Without preliminary treatment, cold-pressed lemon oil was gas chromatographed on a 100-ft temperature and flow programmed capillary in 10 min. Twenty important volatile flavor constituents were identified and approximately 40 more were detected. The speed and convenience of this procedure suggest use in general survey applications.
Alcohol Dysregulates Corticotropin-Releasing-Hormone (CRH) Promoter Activity by Interfering with the Negative Glucocorticoid Response Element (nGRE)

EtOH exposure in male rats increases corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) mRNA in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN), a brain region responsible for coordinating stress and anxiety responses. In this study we identified the molecular mechanisms involved in mediating these effects by examining the direct effects of EtOH on CRH promoter activity in a neuronal cell line derived from the PVN (IVB). In addition, we investigated the potential interactions of EtOH and glucocorticoids on the CRH promoter by concomitantly treating cells with EtOH and the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) antagonist RU486, and by sequentially deleting GR binding sites within glucocorticoid response element (GRE) on the CRH promoter. Cells were transiently transfected with a firefly luciferase reporter construct containing 2.5 kb of the rat wild type (WT) or mutated CRH promoter. Our results showed that EtOH treatment induced a biphasic response in CRH promoter activity. EtOH exposure for 0.5 h significantly decreased promoter activity compared to vehicle treated controls, whereas promoter activity was significantly increased after 2.0 h of EtOH exposure. Treatment with RU486, or deletion of the GR binding sites 1 and 2 within the GRE, abolished the EtOH-induced increase in the promoter activity, however did not affect EtOH-induced decrease in CRH promoter activity at an earlier time point. Overall, our data suggest that alcohol exposure directly regulates CRH promoter activity by interfering with the normal feedback mechanisms of glucocorticoids mediated by GR signaling at the GRE site of the CRH promoter.
Decreased interleukin-2 production in schizophrenic patients.

function in patients with anorexia nervosa. Acta Endocrinol8:252-262. Vigersky RA, Loriaux D, Anderson AE, Mecklenberg RS, Vaitukaitis JL (1976): Delayed pituitary hormone response to LRF and TRF in patients with anorexia nervosa and with secondary amenorrhea associated with simple weight loss. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 43:487-496. Wollesen F, Swerdkoff RS, Ode11 WD (1976): LH and FSH responses to luteinizing releasing hormone in normal fertile women. Metabolism 25:1275-1285.
Nuclear magnetic resonance relaxation study of water absorbed on milled northern white-cedar

Abstract 1 H nuclear magnetic resonance relaxation time measurements are reported for water equilibrated on milled Northern white-cedar wood. At water contents below 0.38 g of water per gram of dry wood, no freezing event is detected in the NMR experiment. At water contents greater than this transverse relaxation is nonexponential, but may be understood using a simple model. Longitudinal relaxation is nonexponential throughout the water content range studied; however, the data may not be analyzed using the concept of preferential filling of successive layers of water. The magnitudes of the relaxation times measured require that the motion of the average water molecule adsorbed to the wood surface be very rapid with correlation times for reorientation of the interproton vector on the order of nanoseconds at 240°K.
Radio-iron absorption in the rat after phenyl hydrazine induced anaemia

1. The effect of phenyl hydrazine in doses of 50 mg, and 100 mg per kg on rat haemoglobin levels, and radio-iron absorption in vivo have been determined. 2. The gradient of increased iron absorption with the two phenyl hydrazine dose levels were parallel, both reaching maximal levels of increased absorption four days post haemolysis. Six weeks after haemolysis iron absorption is still 4–7 times greater than control values. 3. It seems unlikely that in the presence of iron deficiency or acute haemolysis the iron content of the mucosal cell is of prime importance in controlling iron absorption as both a greater, and an earlier onset of absorption should be demonstrable in the group which received the larger dose of phenyl hydrazine. Such was not the case in this study.
Inhibition of anandamide hydrolysis in rat brain tissue by (E)‐6‐(bromomethylene) tetrahydro‐3‐(1‐naphthalenyl)‐2H‐pyran‐2‐one

Anandamide, an endogenous canabinoid substance, is hydrolyzed by an amidohydrolase activity present in rat brain and liver. We report that the bromoenol lactone, (E)-6-(bromomethylene) tetrahydro-3-(1-naphthalenyl)-2H-pyran-2-one (BTNP), is a potent inhibitor of this enzyme activity. BTNP prevented anandamide hydrolysis in rat brain microsomes with an IC50 of 0.8 +/- 0.3 microM. Kinetic and dialysis experiments indicated that this effect was non-competitive and irreversible. After chromatographic fractionation of the enzyme activity, BTNP was still effective, suggesting that it interacts directly with the enzyme. Anandamide hydrolysis was 12-fold greater in rat cortical neurons (1.94 +/- 0.1 pmol/min/mg protein) than in cortical astrocytes (0.16 +/- 0.01 pmol/min/mg protein) and, in either cell type, it was inhibited by BTNP (IC50 = 0.1 microM in neurons). These results suggest that BTNP may provide a useful lead for the development of novel inhibitors of anandamide hydrolysis.
High-dose implantation of Si in SiO2: formation of Si crystallites after annealing

Abstract The behavior of high-dose (8 × 10 17 /cm 2 ) silicon implanted in X-cut, α-quartz at four different temperatures has been investigated. The formation of buried crystallites of silicon under substantial compressive stress and outdiffused silicon under tensile stress on the surface is observed after rapid thermal annealing. In samples annealed at 1000, 1100 or 1150°C the implanted silicon formed buried crystallites, with no evidence of outdiffusion. Differential interference microscopy, Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy and Raman microprobe spectroscopy provided information on the structure of the silicon within and on the surface of the implanted quartz substrate.
Light curves of the Be stars of NGC 3766

Nonradial pulsations (NRPs) are a possible formation mechanism for the equatorial disks surrounding Be stars. The open cluster NGC 3766 has a high fraction of transient Be stars, Be stars that have been observed with both emission due to a circumstellar disk and a non-emitting B-type spectrum. Because of the large fraction of transient Be stars, this cluster is a prime location for studying the formation mechanisms of Be star disks. We observed NGC 3766 for more than 25 nights over three years to generate Stromgren uvby light curves of the Be population. We present the results of a period search to investigate the presence of NRPs.
Successful use of somatostatin in a case of neonatal chylothorax

A 2-week-old infant status postrepair of gastroschisis had spontaneous bilateral chylothoraces necessitating thoracostomy drainage. Voluminous chylous drainage persisted despite cessation of enteral feedings. On administration of the somatostatin analogue octreotide, pleural drainage diminished markedly and ceased entirely within 4 days. These results, along with reported successes in treatment of chylothorax after thoracic surgery, support the prospective investigation of somatostatin use in problematic chylothorax.
Caregiver–child relationships as a context for continuity in child care

This paper focuses on one aspect of continuity – the caregiver–child relationship – within a larger global study of continuity in child care based at a university-affiliated child care center. Case studies are presented of two toddler boys, followed as they transitioned from their infant classroom to the preschool classroom at the age of approximately 2½ years. Data from caregiver notes, developmental progress reports, coded teacher interviews, Attachment Q-Sets, and the Pianta Student–Teacher Relationship Scale (STRS) were analyzed and integrated to form case profiles to reflect the children’s relationship experiences across the transition. Results are discussed in terms of individual differences in child behavior and caregiver perceptions, continuity and discontinuity factors in the transition experience, and implications for policy and practice.
FOODSERVICE, A VITAL PART OF THE TOURIST INDUSTRY

The School of Travel Industry Management (TIM) at the University of Hawaii investigated the interface between foodservice and tourism in Hawaii. This investigation revealed that the average expenditure by Hawaii tourists on food was $24.50 per person per day with the Japanese visitor spending slightly more ($25.12). At breakfast and lunch the tourists' most important consideration in choosing a restaurant was getting the best value for the dining dollar whereas at dinner time tourists were most interested in high quality cuisine. A survey conducted uncovered considerable differences in Japanese tourists' opinions of Hawaii's foodservice facilities from those of US and Canadian tourists. The Japanese were, overall, much more critical of what Hawaii had to offer in the way of foodservice. Data was obtained on the interface between foodservice and tourism by means of two separate surveys - one sent to a group of visitors who had recently returned home from Hawaii and the second survey was sent to a group of Hawaii restaurateurs whose sales depended heavily on the tourist trade. A complete report of this research, including 59 tables and the two survey instruments, was prepared by the School of Travel Industry Management and is available to interested parties.
Incompatibility of stochastic regularization and Zwanziger's gauge fixing

An explicit breakdown of gauge invariance is observed when Zwanziger's gauge fixing is used in conjunction with stochastic regularization.
Nutritional effects of culture media on mycoplasma cell size and removal by filtration

Careful media filtration prior to use is an important part of a mycoplasma contamination prevention program. This study was conducted to increase our knowledge of factors that influence efficient filtration of mycoplasma. The cell size of Acholeplasma laidlawii was measured after culture in various nutritional conditions using scanning electron microscopy. The maximum cell size changed, but the minimum cell size remained virtually unchanged and all tested nutritional conditions resulted in a population of cells smaller than 0.2 microm. Culture in Tryptic Soy Broth (TSB) resulted in an apparent increase in the percentage of very small cells which was not reflected in increased penetration of non-retentive 0.2 microm rated filters. A. laidlawii cultured in selected media formulations was used to challenge 0.2 microm rated filters using mycoplasma broth base as the carrier fluid. We used 0.2 microm rated filters as an analytical tool because A. laidlawii is known to penetrate 0.2 microm filters and the degrees of penetration can be compared. Culture of A. laidlawii in TSB resulted in cells that did not penetrate 0.2 microm rated filters to the same degree as cells cultured in other media such as mycoplasma broth or in TSB supplemented with 10% horse serum.
The Effects of Stock and Prerelease Marine Net-Pen Culture on Survival to Adulthood, Age at Maturity, and Fisheries Contribution for Three Stocks of Chinook Salmon in Southeast Alaska

Abstract Three stocks of juvenile stream-type Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha were evaluated as part of an ocean ranching and broodstock development program at Little Port Walter, Southeast Alaska. Fish were either cultured in freshwater throughout the presmolt period or moved to marine net-pens with an artificial freshwater lens for five periods (2–210 d); all fish were released on the same day. The fish were tagged with coded wire tags to determine the effect, if any, of stock and duration of marine net-pen culture on precocity, fishery contribution, survival to adulthood, and size in the commercial fisheries relative to traditional freshwater culture. Recoveries of tagged fish in the fisheries and at the hatchery weir indicated significant overall effects of stock on marine survival; the Unuk stock survived better than the Chickamin and King Salmon stocks. Culture overwinter in marine net-pens produced higher survival to adulthood in all stocks but also resulted in higher mortality during cultu...
Ophthalmologic manifestations of genitourinary diseases.

Abstract There are several urologic disorders which also involve the eye and orbit. We have compiled examples of these and reviewed the literature. Metastasis from genitourinary malignancy (including neuroblastoma), Wilms tumor, Reiter syndrome, tuberous sclerosis, von Hippel-Lindau disease, and oxalosis may all have ophthalmologic manifestations. Urologists need to be aware, of these and obtain appropriate consultation in order to fully care for patients with these diseases.
Optimal defense in plants: assessment of resource allocation costs

Genetic and environmental variation of functional traits within populations might be maintained by natural selection when resource allocation costs (RACs) balance trait benefits. Despite the intuitive appeal of optimization models, empirical tests have failed to support the importance of RACs for plant traits that confer resistance against pests. To address this discrepancy, we modified an early model by allowing the cost function to vary across a resource gradient as predicted for RACs and by assuming that the benefits depend on variation in the pest population for susceptibility. Instead of the intermediate defense optimum of the original model, defenses were predicted to be either high or absent, depending on resource availability and history. This result is not supported by empirical tests for ecological or evolutionary outcomes, including our own examination of glucosinolate toxins from sib-families of Boechera stricta (Brassicaceae) grown across an NPK fertilizer gradient. Although we detected an apparent cost of defense in the absence of herbivores, the cost did not increase as resources became more limiting. Also defense production did not vary across the resource gradient as predicted by the modified model. Thus, a model based on explicit expectations of RACs produced predictions that are not supported. Instead, other kinds of costs, such as ecological (indirect) costs may be more important. Alternatively, general conflicts in gene expression and antagonistic crosstalk among signaling pathways may underlie apparent costs.
The influence of surface structure on predicted particle dry deposition to natural grass canopies

Equations describing particle transport to surfaces by diffusion, interception, impaction, and sedimentation have been used to predict dry deposition onto five wild grass canopies. Detailed measurements of plant height and spacing, width of stems, leaves, and inflorescences, and wind data collected within and above each canopy have been applied as model input data. The resulting curves of deposition velocity versus particle diameter have then been used with size distribution data from the literature for Pb and sulfate to predict overall dry deposition. Results of these calculations suggest a wide range of dry deposition velocities of 0.05 to 1 cm s−1 for these species, the variation resulting from differences in surface structure and size distribution characteristics. At least 40% of the mass deposition of lead and sulfate results from the largest 10% of the airborne material.
Disconjugacy Criteria for Matrix Difference Equations

Abstract Discrete inequalities are given and applied to the matrix-Jacobi equation, −Δ2Yt−1 + PtYt = 0, to develop criteria for disconjugacy that take into account the cancellation of positive and negative parts of Pt.
Positron emission tomography for assessment of viability.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW The recent success of magnetic resonance imaging for viability assessment has raised questions about the future role of positron emission tomography and older imaging modalities in the assessment of viability. Recent information, however, indicates that positron emission tomography will remain a valuable tool. RECENT FINDINGS The primary positron emission tomography tracer used for assessment of viability is 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose, a glucose analogue that exhibits enhanced uptake in ischemic tissue. The finding of enhanced 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake and a relative reduction in perfusion is considered the positron emission tomography correlate of myocardial hibernation. The mismatch pattern has been shown to identify patients with improvement in systolic function, heart failure symptoms, and prognosis with revascularization. Mismatch identifies a subset of patients with vulnerable myocardium who have a higher likelihood of a cardiac event compared with those without significant mismatch. Delay in revascularization may pose extra risk for those with mismatch. Positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrate a close correlation in the detection of viable myocardium. The development of combined positron emission tomography/computed tomography scanners can reduce imaging time and improve functional-anatomic correlations. SUMMARY Positron emission tomography imaging utilizing 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose and perfusion tracers provides valuable diagnostic and prognostic information in patients with ischemic left ventricular dysfunction and has comparable accuracy to competing technologies for detection of viability.
Autoantibody to hLSm4 and the heptameric LSm complex in anti‐Sm sera

Objective To characterize the 15-kd human SmD-like autoantigen and its associated proteins previously shown to be recognized by IgM antibodies in patients with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-induced infectious mononucleosis. Methods The full-length complementary DNA for the 15-kd protein was expressed as recombinant protein and analyzed for reactivity using biochemical analysis and immunoprecipitation (IP). Results The 15-kd protein was determined to be the human like-Sm protein LSm4 (hLSm4). Rabbit antibody raised against the C-terminal polypeptide immunoprecipitated a 68-kd complex composed of LSm4 together with a group of smaller proteins ranging in size from 6.5 to 14 kd, consistent with the reported heptameric LSm complexes involved in U4/U6 duplex formation and messenger RNA (mRNA) decapping/degradation. About 80% of all anti-Sm sera from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) recognized the hLSm4 in vitro translated product, while 6.7% (29 of 434) immunoprecipitated from cell extracts hLSm4 together with the other members of the hLSm complex. Four sera (0.92%) showed apparently exclusive reactivity to the hLSm complex in the absence of reactivity to Sm core proteins in the IP assay. Conclusion These findings document that while IgM, but not IgG, autoantibodies to LSm4 were found in sera from patients with EBV infection, IgG autoantibodies to hLSm4 are detected in a large number of anti-Sm-positive sera from patients with SLE. Importantly, in a small number of anti-Sm sera the LSm complex can be recognized independently of the Sm core protein antigens. Our data introduce the concept that “Sm” autoantigens include Sm as well as LSm complexes involved in the maturation and degradation of mRNA.
Predictors of Exam Performance in Web and Lecture Courses

THE FIRST OBJECTIVE OF THIS RESEARCH was to compare the demographic and academic profiles of introductory sociology students who completed Web-based courses (n=62) to those who completed traditional lecture-based courses (n=77). The second objective was to determine the extent to which demographic variables (age, gender, and race), academic variables (high school grade point average, and verbal and quantitative Scholastic Assessment Test scores) differentially predicted exam performance in the two learning environments. The demographic and academic profiles of students in the two learning environments were similar, with the exception of racial composition. The Web-based courses had a significantly lower percentage of racial minorities than the lecture-based courses. Hierarchical regression analysis indicated that race was a significant predictor of exam performance in the Web-based courses but not in the lecture-based courses. The implications of the findings and the need for further investigation regarding differential racial enrollment rates and academic success in Web-based courses are discussed
Analysis of a sustainable gas cooled fast breeder reactor concept

Analysis of a thorium fuelled gas cooled fast breeder reactor (TGFBR) concept has been done to demonstrate the self-sustainability, breeding capability, actinide recycling ability, and thorium fuel feasibility. Simultaneous use of 232Th and used fuel from light water reactor in the core has been considered. Results obtained confirm the core neutron spectrum dominates in an intermediate energy range (peak at 100 keV) similar to that seen in a fast breeder reactor. The conceptual design achieves a breeding ratio of 1.034 and an average fuel burnup of 74.5 GWdMTHM. TGFBR concept is to address the eventual shortage of 235U and nuclear waste management issues. A mixture of thorium and uranium (232Th + 233U) is used as fuel and light water reactor used fuel is utilized as blanket, for the breeding of 239Pu. Initial feed of 233U has to be obtained from thorium based reactors; even though there are no thorium breeders to breed 233U a theoretical evaluation has been used to derive the data for the source of 233U. Reactor calculations have been performed with Monte Carlo radiation transport code, MCNP/MCNPX. It is determined that this reactor has to be fuelled once every 5 years assuming the design thermal power output as 445 MW. Detailed analysis of control rod worth has been performed and different reactivity coefficients have been evaluated as part of the safety analysis. The TGFBR concept demonstrates the sustainability of thorium, viability of 233U as an alternate to 235U and an alternate use for light water reactor used fuel as a blanket for the production of plutonium.
Pharmacological specificity of enhanced sensitivity to naltrexone in rats.

Rats treated weekly with cumulative doses (1–100 mg/kg, IP) of naltrexone develop an enhanced sensitivity to the operant response-rate decreasing effect of naltrexone. In the present experiment the pharmacological specificity of that enhanced sensitivity was determined by testing a variety of drugs for cross-sensitivity to naltrexone. Cross-sensitivity was evaluated with two procedures. In one, dose-effect functions were determined for each of the test compounds before and after the development of enhanced sensitivity to naltrexone in a single group of rats. In the second procedure, one group of rats was made sensitive to naltrexone, while a second was not. Test compounds were then evaluated in both groups. For both procedures, a shift to the left in the dose-effect functions similar to naltrexone was considered evidence of cross-sensitivity. Of the opioid antagonists tested, only naloxone showed clear cross-sensitivity to naltrexone, although MR 2266 and diprenorphine also showed evidence of cross-sensitivity. The opioid antagonist quadazocine did not show cross-sensitivity to naltrexone on the day of testing, although some evidence of cross-sensitivity was evident 24 h later. In addition, the dose-effect function ford-amphetamine was significantly changed following naltrexone treatment. No evidence of cross-sensitivity was observed for the optical isomer of naloxone,d-naloxone, or for naloxone's quaternary derivative, naloxone methiodide. None of the opioid agonists or agonist-antagonists tested showed cross-sensitivity to naltrexone (i.e. morphine, U-50, 488H, ethylketocyclazocine,N-allylnormetazocine and pentazocine). The non-opioid drugs chlordiazepoxide and phencyclidine also failed to show evidence of cross-sensitivity. However, the dose-effect curves for chlordiazepoxide were shifted significantly to the right following naltrexone treatment. The results of the present experiment indicate that the enhanced sensitivity which develops to naltrexone in rats is stereospecific and centrally mediated. The effect is specific, in that it does not appear to confer changes in the behavioral effects of non-opioids or even opioid agonists.
Equivalence of the Schwinger model to a scalar-field gauge theory.

It is shown that the usual Schwinger model is entirely equivalent to a particular limit of a spin-zero field interacting with a conserved current. The demonstration is essentially trivial, but depends crucially upon the use of the first-order formulation for both the Maxwell field and the scalar field.
Microglial tyrosine phosphorylation systems in normal and degenerating brain.

Phosphotyrosine and protein tyrosine phosphatase antibodies have been used to assess the distribution and potential functions of tyrosine phosphorylation systems in normal brain and cell cultures, as well as in a model of neural degeneration. Western blot and immunohistochemical analysis showed that a panel of antiphosphotyrosine antibodies recognizing different tyrosine phosphorylated substrates all selectively labeled ramified microglia in sections of brain tissue. This significantly extends our previous observation (GLIA 2:412-419, 1989) that a single, limited, phosphotyrosine antibody served as a histological marker for microglia. The present results show that tyrosine phosphorylation of a variety of substrates is quantitatively enriched in microglia compared to other neural cell types. We also show that the protein tyrosine phosphatase, CD45, is constitutively expressed by ramified microglia in vivo and by ameboid microglia in vitro. Thus, the major enzymes constituting tyrosine phosphorylation systems are present in normal microglia. Neuronal degeneration in the trigeminal nucleus, caused by a introduction of the neurotoxic lectin, ricin, into the peripheral nerve, is accompanied by a robust upregulation of phosphotyrosine signal in ramified microglial adjacent to the nucleus and in ameboid microglia in the degenerating nucleus. The presence of phosphotyrosine in ramified microglia is consistent with a role for tyrosine phosphorylation systems in the activation of microglia and in the signaling events accompanying conversion of resting microglia to the ameboid form. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Base-collector junction capacitance of bipolar transistors operating at high current densities

An analytical physics-based comprehensive base-collector junction capacitance model is presented. The model, which includes high-current effects, describes the base-collector space-charge-region capacitance for all operating regions, including the saturation region in which the space-charge region becomes forward biased. The present model is compared with the depletion capacitance model and significant discrepancies are predicted. An emitter-coupled logic gate circuit is used to demonstrate the practical usefulness of the model.
The chemistry and origin of zincian spinel associated with the Aggeneys Cu-Pb-Zn-Ag deposits, Namaqualand, South Africa

Zincian spinel or gahnite [(Zn,Fe,Mg)Al2O4] occurs in metamorphosed sulphide-rich rocks, garnet quartzites, quartz-magnetite rocks, aluminous metasediments, barite-magnetite rocks, quartz veins, and pegmatites associated with the Aggeneys base metal deposits, Namaqualand, South Africa. Zincian spinel in, sulphide-bearing rocks, is considered to have formed predominantly by desulphurization reactions involving a member of the system Fe-S-O and sphalerite with sillimanite or garnet. Gahnite in sulphide-free garnet quartzites, quartz-magnetite rocks and barite-magnetite rocks probably formed from Zn and Al that were hydrothermally derived whereas gahnite in aluminous metasediments was derived from the metamorphism of metalliferous shales, in which Zn may originally have been linked to organic material. Gahnite is Zn-rich in sulphide-bearing rock, but is Fe-rich in sulphide-free garnet quartzites and quartz-magnetite rocks. Although Zn-rich spinels represent guides to ore in the Aggeneys area and elsewhere in the Namaqualand Metamorphic Complex, Fe-rich spinels should not be discounted because Zn-rich and Fe-rich spinels occur within metres of sulphides at Aggeneys.
Representation and misrepresentation: Tufte and the Morton Thiokol engineers on the Challenger.

This paper examines the role of the Morton Thiokol engineers in the decisions surrounding the launch of the Challenger, particularly with reference to an analysis of this event by Edward Tufte. The engineers at Morton Thiokol recommended against the launch of Challenger because the projected launch temperature between 26°F to 29°F was far outside their field database of successful launches. The engineers had asked for, but not received, data necessary to determine the cause of massive blow-by on the launch the previous January, and they had informed their managers and NASA that continuing flights could be catastrophic if the cause of the problems with the launches was not discovered. The authors conclude that the engineers thus did what they were ethically as well as professionally obligated to do.
13C-NMR spectra of 6-aminohexyl glycosides of O-β-D-galactopyranosyl-2-acetamido-2-deoxy-β-D-glucopyranose

13C-NMR spectral data on 6-aminohexyl glycosides of O-β-D-galactopyranosyl-2-acetamido-2-deoxy-β-D-glucopyranose are pr
The Brazilian species of Elaphoglossum section Polytrichia (Dryopteridaceae)

A taxonomic treatment for the 11 species of Elaphoglossum sect. Polytrichia found in Brazil is presented. The species of this section are recognized morphologically by the presence of subulate scales and lack of hydathodes on adult leaves. Two new species are described: E. amorimii and E. brevipetiolatum, both endemic to the Atlantic rainforest of eastern Brazil. Elaphoglossum brevipetiolatum is unusual in section Polytrichia by lacking subulate scales. Elaphoglossum polyblepharum, which was previously known only from Venezuela, is recorded for the first time in Brazil. Additionally, misapplied names that have long been used in the literature and herbarium specimens, such as E. apodum, E. beitelii, E. erinaceum, E. ornatum, and E. propinquum, are here excluded from the Brazilian flora. We provide identification keys, illustrations, descriptions, comments, synonymy, distribution maps, and an index to collector’s names and numbers for all the species.
How to do a simple epidemiological study. II. Practice

If the proposed study involves any alteration in how the study subjects would otherwise be managed (here this refers as much to the performance of additional laboratory tests as it does to alteration of therapy), then few would disagree that the study should receive prior approval from the appropriate ethics committee. If however the proposed study is purely observational, i.e. its aim is only to collect information about the subjects whilst seeking to avoid interfering with their ‘usual’ management, then some might argue that ethical approval was not always an absolute requirement, provided that legal requirements for data protection were observed (A clear example might be a study using centrally collected mortality data from government sources, in which subject identity had already been anonymised). Nevertheless, there is increasing emphasis on data protection. Thus even if one’s study only involves abstracting clinical information from pre-existing medical records, patient confidentiality could still be an issue which the local ethics committee might wish to consider. If the researcher is any doubt whatsoever about the question of ethical approval, he should seek advice from the Chairman of his local ethical committee. Different ethics committees have widely different procedures for applications and widely different requirements for the granting of approval. The differing experiences of a number of different research groups in the United Kingdom has recently been published [lo131. Whatever the policy of his local ethics committee, the researcher is best advised to make an ethics application his first priority once he has completed his study design and before he embarks upon any other practicalities.
Food insecurity is associated with diabetes mellitus: results from the National Health Examination and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999-2002.

BACKGROUND Food insecurity refers to limited or uncertain access to food resulting from inadequate financial resources. There is a clear association between food insecurity and obesity among women, but little is known about the relationship between food insecurity and type 2 diabetes.
External Stent for Repair of Secondary Tracheomalacia

Abstract Tracheomalacia was created in anesthetized piglets by submucosal resection of 3 to 5 tracheal cartilages. Measurements of airway pressure and flow showed that expiratory airway resistance is maximal at low lung volumes and is significantly increased by creation of the malacic segment. Cervical flexion increases expiratory airway resistance, whereas hyperextension of the neck reduces resistance toward normal. External stenting of the malacic segment reduces expiratory airway resistance, and the combination of external stenting and hyperextension restores airway resistance to normal except at low lung volume. Two patients with secondary tracheomalacia required tracheostomy and could not be decannulated after the indication for the tracheostomy was corrected. Both were successfully decannulated after external stenting of the malacic segment with rib grafts. Postoperative measurements of expiratory pulmonary resistance show a marked decrease from preoperative measurements. External stenting of symptomatic tracheomalacia reduces expiratory airway resistance by supporting and stretching the malacic segment and is preferable to prolonged internal stenting or tracheal resection.
Software system safety and reliability

The emerging discipline of software system safety is considered. The issues discussed are: methodology, application criteria, and phasing of activities during each phase of system design. The authors show how a systems approach to software safety and reliability enhances program effectiveness and reduces costs. >
Individual-, neighborhood-, and state-level socioeconomic predictors of cervical carcinoma screening among U.S. black women: a multilevel analysis.

BACKGROUND Cervical carcinoma is the fifth most common cancer among African American women in the U.S. Although the Papanicolaou (Pap) smear is an efficacious screening tool in the early detection of the disease, disparities are known to persist in the utilization of this procedure across socioeconomic groups. METHODS Data regarding cervical carcinoma screening and covariates were obtained from the 59,090 Black Women's Health Study participants across the U.S. via a mailed questionnaire in 1995. Logistic regression and multilevel techniques were used to assess the independent effects of the covariates on nonrecent cervical carcinoma screening. RESULTS In all, 8.3% of the 40,009 women in the present analysis had not undergone a Pap smear examination within the previous 2 years (nonrecent screening). Lower educational attainment, older age, obesity, smoking, and neighborhood poverty were found to be independently related to increased risk of nonrecent screening. The adjusted odds ratio for nonrecent screening was 1.2 (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.1–1.4) for women residing in neighborhoods with 20% or more poverty compared with those in neighborhoods with less than 5% poverty. State of residence was also associated with nonrecent cervical carcinoma screening. CONCLUSION These results suggest that among black women, residence in high-poverty (20%) neighborhoods is associated with an increased risk of nonrecent cervical carcinoma screening, independent of individual level risk factors. Cancer 2006. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Analysis of Ascorbic Acid by Ion Exclusion Chromatography with Electrochemical Detection

A highly sensitive and specific high-performance liquid chromatographic method for the analysis of ascorbic acid in foods and beverages was developed. Ascorbic acid was extracted with 0.lM H2SO4/ 0.01% EDTA solution, separated on an anion exclusion column and detected amperometrically with a platinum electrode operating at +0.6 V vs. Ag/AgCl reference electrode. Excellent correlation was observed among results obtained by ion exclusion chromatography with either electrochemical or UV detection and by the AOAC 2,6-di-chloroindophenol titrimetric method. Ion exclusion chromatography with electrochemical detection was more sensitive and specific for ascorbic acid than the other two methods.
Central Serous Chorioretinopathy and White Subretinal Exudation During Pregnancy

• Six otherwise healthy pregnant women had development of idiopathic central serous chorioretinopathy in one or both eyes. All had one or more focal areas of white subretinal exudate, which probably was fibrinous in type. In some patients, this was misinterpreted as subretinal neovascularization or retinitis. Symptoms developed in most patients in the third trimester and following delivery, there was spontaneous resolution of retinal detachment and return of visual acuity to 20/20 or better. In a randomly selected group of 50 patients with idiopathic central serous retinopathy unassociated with pregnancy, subretinal white exudation occurred in only six (17%) of 42 men and in zero (0%) of eight women. The cause for the higher prevalence of this exudate in pregnant women is unknown.
STUDIES IN SENSITIZATION TO SKIN : I. THE PRODUCTION OF ANTIBODIES TO SKIN BY MEANS OF THE SYNERGISTIC ACTION OF HOMOLOGOUS SKIN ANTIGEN AND STAPHYLOCOCCUS TOXIN.

1. Techniques for the preparation of skin antigen suitable for intramuscular injection in rabbits, and of skin antigens (autolysate) for serological experiments are described. 2. A method was evolved which produced a soluble skin antigen (autolysate) suitable for performing precipitin tests. 3. Injection of the rabbit skin antigen and of staphylococcus toxin in rabbits resulted in the formation of antibodies (precipitins) to homologous skin. 4. When homologous skin alone was injected into rabbits, the antibody formation was questionable, or at most, slight. 5. The injection of staphylococcus toxin alone resulted in antibody formation, this antibody being specific for the toxin and not reacting with broth. 6. By utilization of the synergistic action of staphylococcus toxin and of homologous skin antigen, it has been possible for the first time to produce specific antiskin antibodies in experimental animals.
Validity of prostate‐specific antigen as a tumour marker in men with prostate cancer managed by watchful‐waiting: correlation with findings at serial endorectal magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopic imaging

OBJECTIVE To investigate the validity of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) as a tumour marker in men with clinically localized prostate cancer who have selected watchful waiting, by determining if serial PSA level measurements are correlated with findings of malignancy or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) at serial endorectal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI). PATIENTS AND METHODS We retrospectively identified 69 men with biopsy-proven prostate cancer being managed by watchful waiting, who underwent serial endorectal MRI/MRSI and who had contemporaneous serial PSA measurements. The mean (range) follow-up was 392 (294–571) days. A panel of three experienced readers reviewed the initial and follow-up MRI/MRSI studies, and classified findings of prostate cancer as stable or progressive. Another reader assessed BPH by calculating total gland and central gland volumes on all studies. RESULTS At the follow-up MRI/MRSI, 51, 17 and one patient had stable, progressive, or unevaluable prostate cancer, respectively. The mean PSA velocity was significantly greater in patients with radiologically progressive disease (1.42 vs 0.42 ng/mL/year, P = 0.04). A PSA velocity of >0.75 ng/mL/year identified those with radiologically progressive disease with a true-positive fraction of 0.71 and a false-positive fraction of 0.39. PSA levels were not correlated with changes in total or central gland volumes (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS In men with clinically localized prostate cancer who select watchful waiting, serial PSA levels are correlated with findings of malignancy but not BPH at serial endorectal MRI/MRSI, suggesting that PSA is a useful longitudinal tumour marker in this population.
The efficacy of preoperative screening and the treatment of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in an otolaryngology surgical practice.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the efficacy of preoperative Staphy-lococcus aureus screening on postoperative methicillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA) infection rates in otolaryngology.STUDY DESIGN: Chart review.SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Postoperative MRSA infection rates in unscreened patients during a 1-year period were compared with infection rates in patients after preoperative S aureus screening was initiated. Colonized patients were treated with mupirocin and chlorhexidine preoperatively.RESULTS: Records of 420 patients were reviewed. In the 241 patients without screening, nine patients had S aureus infections, and there were two (0.8%) postoperative MRSA surgical-site infections. Of 179 patients after screening was initiated, 24 patients (13.4%) were colonized with S aureus and underwent preoperative treatment. There were no MRSA infections in the postoperative period.CONCLUSION: Early results show the potential benefit of preoperative S aureus screening in MRSA infection rate reduction. Although larger studies ar...