cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Construction of Energy Management and Control Information System in Iron and Steel Enterprise

The contribution of energy management and control information system (EMS) to energy conservation and emission reduction of iron and steel industry was expounded in this paper. According to the different management modes and system coverage of iron and steel enterprises, three basic application categories of EMS were summarized. Then, the application functions and their descriptions were studied in detail, followed by the introduction of the relationship between EMS and other information systems. Finally, the comprehensive evaluation indices and recommended standards of EMS were given. It provides a guideline for iron and steel enterprises to construct EMS, beneficial to the energy conservation and environmental protection.
Reactive Balance in Individuals With Chronic Stroke: Biomechanical Factors Related to Perturbation-Induced Backward Falling.

Background An effective compensatory stepping response is the first line of defense for preventing a fall during sudden large external perturbations. The biomechanical factors that contribute to heightened fall risk in survivors of stroke, however, are not clearly understood. It is known that impending sensorimotor and balance deficits poststroke predispose these individuals to a risk of fall during sudden external perturbations. Objective The purpose of this study was to examine the mechanism of fall risk in survivors of chronic stroke when exposed to sudden, slip-like forward perturbations in stance. Design This was a cross-sectional study. Methods Fourteen individuals with stroke, 14 age-matched controls (AC group), and 14 young controls (YC group) were exposed to large-magnitude forward stance perturbations. Postural stability was computed as center of mass (COM) position (XCOM/BOS) and velocity (ẊCOM/BOS) relative to the base of support (BOS) at first step lift-off (LO) and touch-down (TD) and at second step TD. Limb support was quantified as vertical hip descent (Zhip) from baseline after perturbation onset. Results All participants showed a backward balance loss, with 71% of the stroke group experiencing a fall compared with no falls in the control groups (AC and YC groups). At first step LO, no between-group differences in XCOM/BOS and ẊCOM/BOS were noted. At first step TD, however, the stroke group had a significantly posterior XCOM/BOS and backward ẊCOM/BOS compared with the control groups. At second step TD, individuals with stroke were still more unstable (more posterior XCOM/BOS and backward ẊCOM/BOS) compared with the AC group. Individuals with stroke also showed greater peak Zhip compared with the control groups. Furthermore, the stroke group took a larger number of steps with shorter step length and delayed step initiation compared with the control groups. Limitations Although the study highlights the reactive balance deficits increasing fall risk in survivors of stroke compared with healthy adults, the study was restricted to individuals with chronic stroke only. It is likely that comparing compensatory stepping responses across different stages of recovery would enable clinicians to identify reactive balance deficits related to a specific stage of recovery. Conclusions These findings suggest the inability of the survivors of stroke to regain postural stability with one or more compensatory steps, unlike their healthy counterparts. Such a response may expose them to a greater fall risk resulting from inefficient compensatory stepping and reduced vertical limb support. Therapeutic interventions for fall prevention, therefore, should focus on improving both reactive stepping and limb support.
A novel technique for pulsing magnet strings with a single switch

A new approach to switching a succession of kicker magnets using a single switch is described. This technique can be used when different timing delay and power inputs are needed for each kicker. The approach is straight forward and is limited only by the pulse length. Timing jitter between kickers becomes a function of the switch diodes and the transmission lines, rather than the accumulated jitter of individual switches. It is likely that this approach can be used whenever a repeatable pulse train, with arbitrary individual pulse amplitudes, needs to be generated from a single switch and trigger. >
Implementation science for the US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).

Working with implementing organizations and governments in over 32 countries, the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) has contributed to the rapid acceleration of HIV treatment access, availability of care and support services, and HIV prevention interventions. In the first phase of PEPFAR, these activities were appropriately carried out in an emergency fashion with the goal of using available interventions to reduce mortality and alleviate suffering from HIV disease as quickly and effectively as possible. Many lessons have been learned through examination of programs, including simple evaluations and operations research. Commensurate with the emergency response, however, state-of-the-art monitoring, evaluation, and research methodologies were not fully integrated or systematically performed. In the second phase of PEPFAR, characterized by an increased emphasis on sustainability, programs must demonstrate value and impact to be prioritized within complex and resource-constrained environments. In this context, there is a greater demand to causally attribute outcomes to programs. Better attribution can be used to inform midcourse corrections in the scale-up of new interventions (eg, male circumcision) or to reevaluate investments in programs for which impact is less clear. To meet these demands, PEPFAR is adopting an implementation science (IS) framework to improve the development and effectiveness of its programs at all levels. IS is the study of methods to improve the uptake, implementation, and translation of research findings into routine and common practices (the ‘‘know-do’’ or ‘‘evidence to program’’ gap). For example, IS was used to evaluate the routine operational effectiveness of the South African National Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission Programme. Investigators explored the survival of HIV-free infants across program sites and identified specific sources of variation such as health system factors (eg, limited antenatal visits and lack of syphilis screening) and individual behaviors (eg, breastfeeding practices). By framing the problem through IS, the study revealed opportunities for improving program performance that could be translated into immediate solutions (eg, improving quality of care, infant feeding counseling). In this way, IS proved to be a valuable tool that was used not only to improve program effectiveness, but also to explain what worked, why, and under what circumstances. Although no less rigorous than biomedical research dictated by a static protocol with robust internal validity (ie, ‘‘proof-of-concept’’ research with a precisely defined and narrow objective), an IS approach represents a paradigmatic shift in emphasis to greater external validity. The IS scope is also broader, seeking to improve program effectiveness and optimize efficiency, including the effective transfer of interventions from one setting to another. The methods of IS facilitate making evidence-based choices between competing or combined interventions and improving the delivery of effective and costeffective programs.
Nuclear data sheets for A=106

Abstract Nuclear structure information pertaining to A = 106 has been reviewed. The level properties obtained from decay and reaction experiments are shown in the drawings. Experimental methods, references, and comments are given in the text.
In vivo studies with low doses of levocabastine and diphenhydramine, but not pyrilamine, antagonize neurotensin-mediated antinociception

Abstract The present study describes in vivo experiments in the rat addressing the role of levocabastine, and two other specific histamine H 1 antagonists, diphenhydramine and pyrilamine, at neurotensin (NT)-mediated hypothermia and antinociception (hotplate). Levocabastine given i.p. or microinjected directly into the periaqueductal gray (PAG) did not cause antinociception or hypothermia. This indicates that despite the results with the recently-cloned levocabastine-sensitive NT receptors (NTR) in the rat (NTR-2) and mouse (NTRL), levocabastine by itself does not mediate either hypothermia or antinociception at NT receptors. However, pretreatment with 5 or 50 μ g/kg of levocabastine or 5 μ g/kg diphenhydramine all caused over a three-fold reduction in NT-mediated antinociception. Higher doses (500 or 5000 μ g/kg) of levocabastine did not cause any antagonism of NT-mediated antinociception. All three antihistamines did not affect NT-mediated hypothermia. In addition, histamine H 1 pathways are not involved in NT-mediated antinociception, as pretreatment with the much more potent histamine H 1 antagonist pyrilamine did not affect antinociception mediated by NT. Therefore, these data may suggest the presence of yet unidentified NTR subtypes responsible for NT-mediated hypothermia and antinociception.
Comparative Responsiveness of Early Chick Embryo Brainstem and Spinal Cord Neurons to Target-Conditioned Medium

Neurons from the early trigeminal (V) region of the basal plate and from the early ventral spinal cord of chick embryos were dissociated. Their responsiveness to muscle-conditioned medium (MCM) derived from age-matched appropriate and inappropriate target was compared. The V neurons responded to appropriate but not inappropriate MCM by enhanced survival and increased neurite production. Conversely, there were no differences in these measures in spinal cord neurons cultured in control medium and in MCM derived either from appropriate or inappropriate (trigeminal) target. The differences in specificity expressed by these two early populations is discussed.
Inhibition of β-D-galactosidases by D-galactal☆

Abstract This report presents evidence indicating that D -galactal (1,2-dideoxy- D - lyxo -hex-1-enopyranose, (I)) is a potent inhibitor of β- D -galactopyranosidases derived from a variety of sources. D -Galactal represents a new type of inhibitor for glycosidases, and it is suggested that the planar half-chair conformation (II or IIa), preferred by D -galactal, is responsible for its inhibitory action.
AC and DC testing for electrical insulation value of rubber gloves

The method developed for testing of the glove material consists of inserting samples (cut out from the glove) between energized electrodes. To prevent corona at electrode edges and flashover along the surface of the glove sample, the entire assembly (electrodes and samples) is immersed in an oil both. Oil-bath testing is particularly useful for numerous reasons: waterline corona, water turbulence, splashing, and their effects do not obscure the analysis; sections of the glove, such as the cuff area, that are not tested fully in the water tank, can be tested in the oil-bath vessel; many sections of the glove can be tested, providing data on the uniformity of glove material properties; one glove yields several samples for testing in the oil-bath vessel, significantly increasing the number of data points for statistical analysis; reject gloves (with local surface imperfections) at low unit cost can be used. It is shown that all tested samples have met the minimum withstand requirements for Class II gloves. Additional collected data suggest that aging of the rubber is not significant. The oil-bath vessel proved to be a reliable tool for statistical study of AC and DC breakdown characteristics of samples of rubber protective equipment, and extensions of the procedures to Class III and IV gloves is feasible. >
Echocardiographic Detection of a Congenital Diverticulum of the Right Ventricular Outflow Tract

Congenital diverticula of the right ventricle are extremely rare and may be life threatening. The ultrasound demonstration and recognition of such an abnormality and the important differential features are discussed.
Reply: HHV-8 transmission via saliva to soothe blood-sucking arthropod bites

Sir, I thank M Coluzzi et al for their interest in my letter published in 2003 on traditional behavioural practices and exchange of saliva among sub-Saharan African populations. The comments by M Coluzzi et al on my letter highlight a potentially important behavioural practice associated with human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) transmission; the use of saliva to soothe blood-sucking arthropod bites. As mentioned in my letter, I found some evidence of this practice in reviewing ethnographic material from the Human Relations Area Files (HRAF). However, neither the extent nor frequency of saliva-associated behavioural practices, including those highlighted by Coluzzi et al, has been investigated among sub-Saharan African populations. The HRAF files present only descriptive, ethnographic data. Scientifically oriented epidemio-logical studies need to be developed to better characterise the frequency and distribution of saliva-associated behavioural practices and evaluate the potential association between these practices and risk of infection with HHV-8. The ‘promoter arthropod’ hypothesis raised by Coluzzi et al (2002) concerning the use of saliva to soothe blood-sucking arthropod bites merits further investigation and may pertain to transmission of other viruses in addition to HHV-8. In their letter, Coluzzi et al discuss ecological data from a previous study Coluzzi et al (2003), suggesting a relationship between larviciding campaigns and decreased population HHV-8 seroprevalence in Sardinia. Although this ecological level data is intriguing, the association may be confounded by other time-dependent environmental or behavioural factors, and individual level studies are needed to test this hypothesis. In addition, in light of widespread infection with HHV-8 in diverse sub-Saharan African environments, ecological level analysis may be less informative in this context. Studies that assess the frequency of behavioural practices associated with saliva including treatment of insect bites and exposures to proposed environmental risk factors (e.g. the density of ‘promoter arthropods’) at the individual level are needed.
Crash Frequency Modeling using Negative Binomial Models: An Application of Generalized Estimating Equation to Longitudinal Data

Abstract The prediction of crash frequency models can be improved when several years of crash data are utilized, instead of three to five years of data most commonly used in research. Crash data, however, generates multiple observations over the years that can be correlated. This temporal correlation affects the estimated coefficients and their variances in commonly used crash frequency models (such as negative binomial (NB), Poisson models, and their generalized forms). Despite the obvious temporal correlation of crashes, research analyses of such correlation have been limited and the consequences of this omission are not completely known. The objective of this study is to explore the effects of temporal correlation in crash frequency models at the highway segment level. In this paper, a negative binomial model has been developed using a generalized estimating equation (GEE) procedure that incorporates the temporal correlations amongst yearly crash counts. The longitudinal model employs an autoregressive correlation structure to compare to the more traditional NB model, which uses a Maximum Likelihood Estimation (MLE) method that cannot accommodate temporal correlations. The GEE model with temporal correlation was found to be superior compared to the MLE model, as it does not underestimate the variance in the coefficient estimates, and it provides more accurate and less biased estimates. Furthermore, an autoregressive correlation structure was found to be an appropriate structure for longitudinal type of data used in this study. Ten years (2002–2011) of Missouri Interstate highway crash data have been utilized in this paper. The crash data comprises of traffic characteristics and geometric properties of highway segments.
Reactions of monodentate tertiary phosphines with the dirhenium(II) alkyne complexes [Re2Cl3(μ-dppm)2(CO)-(η2-RCCH)]X (X = PF6 or O3SCF3) to form ylides

The η2-alkyne adducts [Re2CL3(μ-dppm)2(CO)(η2-RCCH)]XR = H, Prn, Bun or Ph; X = PF6 or O OSCF3 have been reacted with monodentate tertiary phosphines PR3 (R3 = Me3, Et3, Me2PH or Me2Ph of Me PHa2 to afford in hight yield (> 600% a new class of resonance stabilized ylides of composition [Re2Cl3(μ-dppm)2(CO)(C(R)CH(PR3)]X. These diamagnetic complexes have been characterized by IR, 1H NMR and 31P{1H} NMR spectroscopies and cyclic voltammetry, and the structure of a representative example determined by single crystal X-ray crystallography. Crystal data for [Re2Cl3(μ-dppm)2(CO)(C(Prn)CH(PMe2Ph))]SO3 CF3·0.83C7H8 at 173 K: monoclinic space group Pn (No. 7), a = 16.404(4), b = 11.907(2), c = 19.866(2) A, β = 110.58(1)°, V = 3632(2) A3, Z = 2. The structure was refined in full-matrix least-squares to R=0.052 (Rw=0.068) for 4156 data with I > 3σ(I). This structure determination shows that the basic geometry present in the parent complexes [Re2Cl3(μ-dppn)2(CO)(η2- RCCH)]X is retained, the principal difference being the conversion of the η2-alkyne ligand RCCH to the η1-bound ylide C(R)CH(PR3). The ReRe bond length of 2.311(1) A signifies the retention of an Re≡Re bond.
Resveratrol inhibits Cdk5 activity through regulation of p35 expression

We have previously reported that cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) participates in the regulation of nociceptive signaling. Through activation of the ERK1/2 pathway, Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α) induces expression of Egr-1. This results in the sustained and robust expression of p35, a coactivator of Cdk5, in PC12 cells, thereby increasing Cdk5 kinase activity. The aim of our present study was to test whether resveratrol, a polyphenolic compound with known analgesic activity, can regulate Cdk5/p35 activity. Here we used a cell-based assay in which a p35 promoter-luciferase construct was stably transfected in PC12 cells. Our studies demonstrate that resveratrol inhibits p35 promoter activity and also blocks the TNF-α mediated increase in Cdk5 activity in PC12 cells. Resveratrol also inhibits p35 expression and blocks the TNF-α mediated increase in Cdk5 activity in DRG neurons. In the presence of resveratrol, the MEK inhibitor decreased p35 promoter activity, whereas the inhibitors of p38 MAPK, JNK and NF-κB increased p35 promoter activity, indicating that these pathways regulate p35 expression differently. The TNF-α-mediated increase in Egr-1 expression was decreased by resveratrol treatment with a concomitant reduction in p35 expression and protein levels, resulting in reduced Cdk5 kinase activity. We demonstrate here that resveratrol regulates p35 promoter activity in PC12 cells and DRG neurons. Most importantly, resveratrol blocks the TNF-α-mediated increase in p35 promoter activity, thereby reducing p35 expression and subsequent Cdk5 kinase activity. This new molecular mechanism adds to the known analgesic effects of resveratrol and confirms the need for identifying new analgesics based on their ability to inhibit Cdk5 activity for effective treatment of pain.
The impact of level 1 pediatric trauma center designation on demographics and financial reimbursement

A retrospective analysis of medical and financial records of trauma patients admitted over a 4-year period was undertaken to determine the impact of level 1 pediatric trauma center designation on demographics and financial reimbursement. Three hundred fifty-four patients were admitted from November 1, 1985, to October 31, 1986 (Prelevel 1 designation [PREL1]). Five hundred seven patients were admitted from November 1, 1986, to October 31, 1987 (Postlevel 1 designation [PostL1]) (P less than .005). Mechanisms of injury were similar in both groups, with falls being most prevelant (PreL1, 50.8%; PostL1, 43.4%). The magnitude of injuries in the PostL1 period, as expressed by Pediatric Trauma Scores and Injury Severity Scores, did not change significantly. The types of injuries, as indicated by organ systems involved, did not change. The exception was thoracic injuries, which increased from 1.7% to 4.5% (P = .037). Total hospital charges per patient increased ($5,820 PreL1; $7,691 PostL1) (P = .034). Collection rates did not change (77.6% PreL1; 76.4% PostL1). The institution incurred a financial loss per patient of $1,149 PreL1 and $1,795 PostL1 (P = .055). Years 2 and 3 PostL1 designation were analyzed to identify trends (year 2 PostL1: November 1, 1987 to October 31, 1988 [488 patients]; year 3 PostL1: November 1, 1988 to October 31, 1989 [459 patients]). The distribution of Pediatric Trauma Scores and Injury Severity Scores did not change. Total hospital charges per patient remained fairly constant ($8,082 year 2 PostL1; $7,276 year 3 PostL1). Unreimbursed costs increased significantly compared with losses during the PostL1 period ($4,262 year 2 PostL1, P less than .005; $2,799 year 3 PostL1, P = .04).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
The influence of topic knowledge, domain knowledge, and interest on the comprehension of scientific exposition

Abstract In this study, we explored the influence of subject-matter knowledge and interest on college students' comprehension of scientific exposition. Two forms of subject-matter knowledge were considered: Passage-specific (i.e., topic) knowledge and general (i.e., domain) knowledge. College students read two passages from physics, one dealing with Stephen Hawking and Grand Unification Theory, and one about the search for the truth quark. Students' topic knowledge and domain knowledge were tested before reading the passages. After reading each passage, students rated their interest in what they read. Comprehension measures were then completed for each passage. We performed regression analyses to determine the effects of subject-matter knowledge and interest on the comprehension scores for each passage. For the more technical Quarks passage, domain knowledge and interest were both significant predictors of comprehension. For the more personally-involving Hawking passage, topic knowledge, domain knowledge, and interest were significant predictors of comprehension performance. Overall, students were more interested in less abstruse and more personally-involving information for both passages.
Diastereofacial solid phase synthesis and self-promoted cleavage of a [2.2.1] bicyclic diversity scaffold.

We have previously described a diastereofacially selective 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction of isomunchnones with vinyl ethers. While adapting this methodology for solid phase synthesis, we discovered a chemoselective and self-promoted linker aminolysis that provides liberated product in high purity, at a significantly enhanced rate. Herein we describe the implementation of a chiral auxiliary as a solid-phase linker, the detailed investigation of its unique aminolysis, and the utility of this cleavage within a chemical diversity format.
Localization ofα2c-adrenergic receptor immunoreactivity in catecholaminergic neurons in the rat central nervous system

Abstract Given the importance of α 2 -adrenergic receptors in the regulation of catecholaminergic transmission, we analysed the distribution of immunoreactivity corresponding to the C-subtype of α 2 -adrenergic receptor in central catecholaminergic neurons using double-label immunohistochemistry with antibodies directed against a,c-adrenergic receptors and tyrosine hydroxylase. Cells exhibiting both α 2c -adrenergic receptor and tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity were found in most areas containing catecholaminergic cell groups. However, the percentage of double-labelled cells varied in a region-specific manner. In the medulla, α 2c -adrenergic receptor immunoreactivity was characteristic of only a minority of cells exhibiting tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity (40–43% in area A1/C1, 27–36% in area A2/C2, 35% in area C3) while a larger percentage of double-labelled cells was observed in the pons (65% in A5, 92% in locus coeruleus, 68% in A7). In the midbrain, α 2c -adrenergic receptor immunoreactivity was detected in most tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive cells in dopaminergic regions (63% in the retrorubral field, 77–83% in substantia nigra, 67% in ventral tegmental area). These results suggest that α 2c -adrenergic receptors may act as autoreceptors on some central adrenergic and noradrenergic neurons. In addition, the colocalization of α 2c -adrenergic receptor and tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactivity in dopaminergic cell groups suggests that reported effects of α 2 -adrenergic receptor agonists in these areas may be mediated by the C-subtype.
Reference collection maintenance: Theory and (mal)practice

Librarians have lavished years of scholarship on the subject of collection development. The rewarding process of organizing and building a relevant and competitive collection is one of librarianship's more rewarding jobs.
Tibial geometry in individuals with neurofibromatosis type 1 without anterolateral bowing of the lower leg using peripheral quantitative computed tomography.

Introduction Lower leg bowing with tibial pseudarthrosis is associated with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). The objective of the study is to determine if the geometry of the lower limb in individuals with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) differs from controls, and to characterize the osseous components of the tibia in NF1.
Flow Control Over a Circular Cylinder Using Pulsed DBD Actuators

Immersed bodies such as struts, vanes, and instrumentation probes in gas turbine flow systems will, except at the lowest of flow velocities, shed separated wakes. These wakes can have both upstream and downstream effects on the surrounding flow. In most applications, surrounding components are designed to be in the presence of a quasi-steady or at least non-variant flow field. The presence of unsteady wakes has both aerodynamic and structural consequences. Active flow control of wake generation can therefore be very valuable. One means to implement active flow control is by the use of plasma actuation. Plasma actuation is the use of strong electric fields to generate ionized gas that can be actuated and controlled using the electric fields. The controlling device can be based on AC, DC, or pulsed-DC actuation. The present research was conducted using pulsed-DC from a capacitive discharge power supply.The study demonstrates the applicability of, specifically, pulsed-DC plasma flow control of the flow on a circular cylinder at high Reynolds numbers. The circular cylinder was selected because its flow characteristics are related to gas turbine flowpath phenomena, and are well characterized. Further, the associated pressure gradients are some of the most severe encountered in fluid applications. The development of effective plasma actuators at high Reynolds numbers under the influence of severe pressure gradients is a necessary step toward developing useful actuators for gas turbine applications beyond laboratory use.The reported experiments were run at Reynolds numbers varying from 50,000 to 97,000, and utilizing various pulse frequencies. Further, the observed performance differences with varying electric field strengths are discussed for these Reynolds numbers. The results show that flow behaviors at high Reynolds numbers can be influenced by these types of actuators. The actuators were able to demonstrate a reduction in both wake width and momentum deficit.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Clinical pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile of etoricoxib.

The NSAID etoricoxib is a selective inhibitor of cyclo-oxygenase 2 (COX-2), approved for treatment of patients with chronic arthropathies and musculoskeletal and dental pain. The rate of absorption of etoricoxib is moderate when given orally (the maximum plasma drug concentration occurs after ∼1 hour), and the extent of absorption is similar with oral and intravenous doses. Etoricoxib is extensively protein bound, primarily to plasma albumin, and has an apparent volume of distribution of 120 L in humans. The area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) of etoricoxib increases in proportion to increasing oral doses between 5 and 120 mg. The elimination half-life of ∼20 hours in healthy subjects enables once-daily dosing. Etoricoxib is eliminated following biotransformation to carboxylic acid and glucuronide metabolites that are excreted in urine and faeces, with little of the drug (<1%) being eliminated unchanged in the urine. Etoricoxib is metabolized primarily by the cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4 isoenzyme. Plasma concentrations (AUC) of etoricoxib appear not to be different in patients with chronic renal insufficiency compared with individuals who have normal renal function. Compared with healthy subjects, it has been reported that the AUC is increased by approximately 40% in patients with moderate hepatic impairment. No inhibitory effects on CYP2C9, 2C19, 2D6, 2E1 or 3A4 are expected to occur with etoricoxib. Coadministration of etoricoxib with other drugs has been examined only to a limited extent, thus further assessment is necessary. Etoricoxib has been assessed for the management of several specific disease states, including pain, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis, and has shown similar efficacy in comparison with traditional NSAIDs (including naproxen, diclofenac and ibuprofen) in these conditions. Etoricoxib has demonstrated a significant reduction in gastrointestinal toxicity compared with many traditional NSAIDs. The renal adverse effects of etoricoxib appear to be similar to those of other NSAIDs, and the cardiovascular adverse effects of this selective COX-2 inhibitor require further clinical scrutiny. Further study is necessary to delineate the relevance of the pharmacokinetic disposition in terms of the clinical benefits and risks of etoricoxib compared with other options in the clinical arsenal.
Influence of Open-Heart Surgery on Respiratory Work

1.The work of breathing, measured from pressure volume loops, was determined preoperatively and postoperatively in 20 patients following open-heart surgery for acquired valvular disease. In all patients the work of breathing was twice normal before operation. 2.Thirteen surviving patients had physiologically insignificant increase in the work of breathing on the first or second day following the operation. This change does not explain the respiratory difficulties experienced by these patients. 3.In seven fatal cases, the respiratory work increased an average of five times the preoperative value (ten times normal). In such patients, the excessive work of breathing produces a significant demand upon the cardiac output, and controlled mechanical ventilation is indicated in the postoperative period.
Lipid-Based Amphotericin B for the Treatment of Fungal Infections

The frequency of life-threatening fungal infections has increased dramatically over the past few decades. For more than 30 years amphotericin B has been the standard treatment for systemic and deep-seated fungal infections, primarily because of its broad spectrum of activity. Its usefulness is limited by a relatively high frequency of significant adverse events including infusion-related reactions and nephrotoxicity. In an effort to overcome these side effects, a number of lipid-based formulations were developed, each with its own composition and pharmacokinetic behavior. The clinical significance of these differences is unknown. Available clinical data suggest the formulations have a reduced propensity for causing nephrotoxicity. However, considering limited efficacy data, they should be reserved as second-line therapy for patients who cannot tolerate or fail an adequate trial of conventional amphotericin B or cannot benefit from other antifungal agents.
Three-dimensional density reconstruction from a series of two-dimensional projections

Abstract An iterative relaxation technique is presented for unfolding three-dimensional distributions from a series of two-dimensional projections taken at several different orientations relative to the object being investigated. The achievable resolution is discussed. Analyses of both computer simulations and actual measurements are presented. This type of analysis has applications in radiography, electron transmission microscopy, radiotherapy, and nuclear medicine. Features of the technique which may make it especially suitable for particular applications are described.
Jewish victims of the Katyn massacre 1

En 1940, environ 26.000 fonctionnaires polonais sont massacres a Katyn par les autorites sovietiques. Meme sous la direction de M. Gorbatchev, l'URSS n'a pas livre les archives les plus accablantes sur cet episode. Les documents ont ete rendus publics par B. Eltsine en 1992. Parmi les victimes, un grand nombre de juifs sont morts aux cotes de polonais en luttant pour l'independance de leur pays
Teratogenicity of three polychlorinated dibenzofurans in C57BL/6N mice*1

Abstract Polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) are widespread environmental contaminants which have been detected in human tissues and implicated in several poisoning incidents. Their toxic effects are similar to those observed with other related halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons such as TCDD. The teratogenic effects of three PCDFs, 1,2,3,7,8,-pentachlorodibenzofuran (1-PeCDF), 2,3,4,7,8-pentachlorodibenzofuran (4-PeCDF), and 1,2,3,4,7,8-hexachlorodibenzofuran (HCDF), were assessed in C57BL 6N mice. Pregnant mice were exposed on Gestation Days 10–13 to 10 ml corn oil/kg containing PCDFs. The dams were killed on Gestation Day 18 and maternal and fetal toxicity were assessed. All three compounds were highly teratogenic, with very steep and parallel dose-response curves for the two diagnostic indicators of dioxin-like teratogenicity, hydronephrosis, and cleft palate. 4-PeCDF was the most teratogenic with an ED50 of 36 μg/kg for cleft palate and 7 μg/kg for hydronephrosis. 4-PeCDF was approximately 4 times as potent as 1-PeCDF and 10 times as potent as HCDF. The teratogenic responses occurred at a dose below that where any obvious maternal or fetal toxicity was detected. Thus, these three compounds cause teratogenic responses similar to those seen with TCDD but are only 1 10 to 1 100 as potent.
Do episodic migraineurs selectively attend to headache-related visual stimuli?

Objective.— To assess pain-related attentional biases among individuals with episodic migraine. Background.— Prior studies have examined whether chronic pain patients selectively attend to pain-related stimuli in the environment, but these studies have produced largely mixed findings and focused primarily on patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain. Limited research has implicated attentional biases among chronic headache patients, but no studies have been conducted among episodic migraineurs, who comprise the overwhelming majority of the migraine population. Methods.— This was a case-control, experimental study. Three hundred and eight participants (mean age = 19.2 years [standard deviation = 3.3]; 69.5% female; 36.4% minority), consisting of 84 episodic migraineurs, diagnosed in accordance with International Classification of Headache Disorders (2nd edition) criteria using a structured diagnostic interview, and 224 non-migraine controls completed a computerized dot probe task to assess attentional bias toward headache-related pictorial stimuli. The task consisted of 192 trials and utilized 2 emotional-neutral stimulus pairing conditions (headache-neutral and happy-neutral). Results.— No within-group differences for reaction time latencies to headache vs happy conditions were found among those with episodic migraine or among the non-migraine controls. Migraine status was unrelated to attentional bias indices for both headache (F [1,306] = 0.56, P = .45) and happy facial stimuli (F [1,306] = 0.37, P = .54), indicating a lack of between-group differences. Lack of within- and between-group differences was confirmed with repeated measures analysis of variance. Conclusions.— In light of the large sample size and prior pilot testing of presented images, results suggest that episodic migraineurs do not differentially attend to headache-related facial stimuli. Given modest evidence of attentional biases among chronic headache samples, these findings suggest potential differences in attentional processing between chronic and episodic headache subforms.
Cord blood nesfatin-1 in large for gestational age pregnancies.

Abstract Objective To investigate possible alterations in cord blood levels of adipokine nesfatin-1 (secreted by adipose tissue and pancreatic β-cells and implicated in glucose metabolism and insulin resistance), as well as insulin, in large (LGA) and appropriate for gestational age (AGA) pregnancies, granted that these groups differ in body fat mass and metabolic/endocrine mechanisms. Materials and methods Cord blood nesfatin-1 and insulin concentrations were prospectively measured in 40 LGA (9 born from diabetic and 31 from non-diabetic mothers) and 20 AGA singleton full-term infants as well as their mothers. Results Cord blood nesfatin-1 concentrations were significantly lower in LGA compared to AGA neonates ( b = −0.206, SE 0.07, p = 0.005). However, cord blood nesfatin-1 concentrations were elevated in infants born from mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), compared to those born from non-diabetic mothers, after controlling for group ( b = 0.190, SE 0.10, p = 0.05). Finally, cord blood nesfatin-1 concentrations were lower in cases of vaginal delivery ( b = 0.11, SE 0.05, p = 0.042). Insulin levels were significantly elevated, as customized centiles increased ( b = 0.004, SE = 0.002, p = 0.016). No significant correlation was found between insulin and nesfatin-1 in maternal and umbilical cord levels. Conclusions In this study nesfatin-1 levels are decreased in LGA compared to AGA fetuses. Fetal nesfatin-1 concentrations are higher in cases of GDM and cord blood nesfatin-1 concentrations are lower in cases of vaginal delivery.
Optimal spectral sampling for color imaging

I consider the problem of numerically computing tristimulus values for a given spectral power density. In particular, I examine the use of interpolatory quadrature rules for the solution of this problem. A good deal of effort has gone into creating tables of weights and abscissas for solving this problem. Wallis has proposed a more sophisticated approach using Gauss quadrature rules. I show that the performance of these techniques can be improved in a well- defined sense, and derive a method based on a new class of quadrature rules. These rules give optimal performance in the sense that they maximize the overall degree of precision while simultaneously minimizing the number of function evaluations.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Mortality differentials by size of place and sex in Pennsylvania for 1960 and 1970.

Abstract Factors which affect mortality rates differ by size of place of residence. Mortality differentials were examined by size of place of residence for two recent time periods. A new method of rate adjustment was employed to eliminate the confounding effects of differences in age composition upon rates. Positive associations between adjusted mortality rates and size of place were evident in both metropolitan and nonmetropolitan counties. The smallest places in metropolitan counties had the lowest adjusted mortality rates. The adjusted mortality rates for males exceeded those for females in each size of place. These patterns were evident in data for both 1960 and 1970. The adjusted mortality rates for females declined by greater percentages than did those for males in each size of place between 1960 and 1970.
Do raphe nuclei of the reticular formation have a neurosecretory or vascular sensor function

Abstract Golgi analysis of the various subnuclei of the raphe complex of the brain stem's reticular core reveals an apparently special neurovascular relationship for two of them. Cells of the n. raphe pontis and n. linealis rostralis which have been recognized for some time as forming paired systems are now seen to lie closely applied along the surface of raphe vessels which ascend from the basilar artery on each side of midline. Both cells and dendrites of these two neuronal ensembles ascend along the vessels, the dendrites frequently appearing to bear specialized expansions en passage or terminally, with which to relate to the vascular walls. Histochemical and electron microscopic techniques have been used in efforts to determine the actual nature of this relationship. It has been suggested that the role of the two raphe systems might include: (i) neurosecretion, releasing some active principle into the underlying vascular system; (ii) chemosensor function, responding to specific circulating substances, (iii) mechanoreceptor function, responding to changes in tone and/or diameter of the vessel wall. Introductory studies appear to make the first unlikely, although all possibilities need further evaluation. If these nuclei should be shown to fulfill the second or third roles, it would make it less likely that raphe neurons themselves represent the original triggr for the onset of slow wave sleep, but rather, act in response to a distant pacemaker.
Architectural issues in VLIW video signal processors

As digital video becomes more prevalent, video signal processors (VSPs) emerge as a solution to accelerate computational-intensive multimedia applications. While dedicated VSPs are available for MPEG CODECs, the need for greater functionality and time-to-market pressures will push the video industry towards programmable VSPs. Combining a high degree of parallelism with the efficiency of statistically scheduled instructions, very long instruction word micro-architecture is becoming very popular and widely adopted. In this paper, we provide an overview of problems involved in VSP design, including hierarchical architectural paradigm, register and memory sizing, streaming computation, and so on. Analyses and solutions are also presented in addition to problem formulation. Understanding these problems well would help us realize architectural tradeoffs and pinpoint bottleneck in different stages of design sophistication.
Structural and functional implications of the amino acid sequences of dimeric, cytoplasmic and octameric mitochondrial creatine kinases from a protostome invertebrate

The cDNA and deduced amino-acid sequences for dimeric and octameric isoforms of creatine kinase (CK) from a protostome, the polychaete Chaetopterus variopedatus, were elucidated and then analysed in the context of available vertebrate CK sequences and the recently determined crystal structure of chicken sarcomeric mitochondrial CK (MiCK). As protostomes last shared a common ancestor with vertebrates roughly 700 million years ago, observed conserved residues may serve to confirm or reject contemporary hypotheses about the roles of particular amino acids in functional/structural processes such as dimer/octamer formation and membrane binding. The isolated cDNA from the dimeric CK consisted of 1463 nucleotides with an open reading frame of 1116 nucleotides encoding a 372-amino-acid protein having a calculated molecular mass of 41.85 kDa. The percentage identity of C. variopedatus dimeric CK to vertebrate CK is as high as 69%. The octameric MiCK cDNA is composed of 1703 nucleotides with an open reading frame of 1227 nucleotides. The first 102 nucleotides of the open reading frame encode a 34-amino-acid leader peptide whereas the mature protein is composed of 375 amino acids with a calculated molecular mass of 42.17 kDa. The percentage identity of C. variopedatus MiCK to vertebrate CK is as high as 71%. This similarity is also evident in residues purported to be important in the structure and function of dimeric and octameric CK: (a) presence of seven basic amino acids in the C-terminal end thought to be important in binding of MiCK to membranes; (b) presence of a lysine residue (Lys110 in chicken MiCK) also thought to be involved in membrane binding; and (c) presence of a conserved tryptophan thought to be important in dimer stabilization which is present in all dimeric and octameric guanidino kinases. However, C. variopedatus MiCK lacks the N-terminal heptapeptide present in chicken MiCK, which is thought to mediate octamer stabilization. In contrast with vertebrate MiCK, polychaete octamers are very stable indicating that dimer binding into octamers may be mediated by additional and/or other residues. Phylogenetic analyses showed that both octamer and dimer evolved very early in the CK lineage, well before the divergence of deuterostomes and protostomes. These results indicate that the octamer is a primitive feature of CK rather than being a derived and advanced character.
Conflict in Multicultural Classes: Approaches to Resolving Difficult Dialogues.

Survey data are presented from instructors (N = 114) regarding how they would hypothetically use conflict management interventions within multicultural courses. Findings indicate that participants had more difficulty dealing with conflict directed at the instructor than with cognitive conflict, which involved students’ ideas or beliefs. In addition, higher preferences were associated with the use of relationship-building interventions across all types of conflict.
An Examination of Carbonaceous Deposits in Direct-Utilization SOFC Anodes

The deposition, stability, and function of carbonaceous films formed by exposing porous yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) anodes in YSZ-based solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) to n-butane at elevated temperatures was studied using a combination of four-probe conductivity, impedance spectroscopy, and cell polarization measurements. The carbonaceous deposits were found to have high electronic conductivity and to be relatively stable for steam-to-carbon ratios as high as 3.75. Comparison of the performance of cells in which carbon films were used as the sole current collector in the anode with anodes containing both Cu and carbon films indicated that in the latter case, the carbon layer plays an important role in providing electronic conductivity near the three-phase boundary.
Integration of evolutionary programming and simulation to optimize a pull production system

This paper describes the use of evolutionary programming (EP) integrated with a simulation model of a manufacturing system to determine the minimum number of kanbans and corresponding production trigger values required to meet demand. For this problem, a new two step heuristic is developed based on EP and the classical kanban sizing equation used by Toyota. The procedure is illustrated with an applied problem and the results indicate that the new heuristic provides good solutions to the problem.
Terra Incognita: Program design and evaluation in teacher education

On May 20, 1990, a unique cadre of new teachers will be graduated from the University of Virginia. Simultaneously receiving a baccalaureate from the College of Arts and Sciences and a Master of Teaching degree from the Curry School of Education, they will be the first to complete a radically reformed program of teacher preparation. The design of this new Five-year Teacher Education Program is guided by a set of fundamental beliefs, a core of professional knowledge, and a commitment to expansive change. This change fundamentally alters the curriculum and technology of instruction, the system of roles and distribution of authority, as well as relationships among faculties in liberal arts, education, and the public schools. In short, the reform is an attempt not only to redefine a program of teacher preparation, but to change the culture which supports that program. This article will describe the history and context of Virginia's reform agenda as well as the beliefs that underlie the program design. The research and evaluation efforts have been evolutionary and developmental, as well as secondary to curriculum design and implementation. So far, the research has been focused on the "small picture." We have