cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
3D microstructure construction and quantitative evaluation of sintered ZrO2 under different sintering conditions

In this study, the microstructural evolution of yttria-stabilized ZrO2 after different sintering conditions is quantitatively presented. Focused ion beam (FIB) is used as a critical tool for sintering microstructural evolution understanding. 3D images are constructed with Amira software based on a series of 2D images obtained from FIB cutting of samples with an interval of 10 nm. Pore connectivity, pore numbers, grain-pore interfacial areas, and pore tortuosity of the sintered samples are calculated by IDL software using the 3D images. Our new tortuosity definition describes the actual sample microstructural changes while the other two in the literature fail to do so. FIB cutting and 3D microstructure reconstruction offer many new aspects of sintering microstructure that have not been available before.
Stress measurement as a new technique for determining glass transition temperatures and other thermomechanical properties of polymers

Some of the most important properties of polymers include the glass transition temperature (T g), melting temperature (Tin), stress relaxation rate, coefficient of thermal expansion, biaxial elastic modulus and crystallization temperature. A method is presented here in which measurement of stress in a polymer film allows the experimenter to determine all of these properties. Growing interest in thin polymer films [1], which do not lend themselves well to traditional measurement techniques, has motivated this work. Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), a common amorphous commercial polymer, was tested for some of these properties to demonstrate the method. The values obtained for the properties studied were in excellent agreement with published results. If an initially unstressed film adhering to a substrate is subjected to a change in temperature, the difference in thermal expansion of the two materials will induce stress in the film. The amount of thermally generated stress can be calculated [2] as
Nifedipine therapy for stable angina pectoris: preliminary results of effects on angina frequency and treadmill exercise response.

Ten patients with stable angina pectoris secondary to atherosclerotic coronary artery disease received nifedipine (10 mg and 20 mg orally three times daily, each for 2 weeks) or placebo (for 2 weeks) in a single-blind manner during a 6 week period. One patient was excluded because nocturnal and resting angina developed while he was receiving placebo. The frequency of anginal attacks in the remaining nine patients decreased from 11.2 ± 2.2 (mean ± standard error of the mean) per patient per week during administration of placebo to 7.1 ± 1.6 during therapy with nifedipine at 10 mg and to 6.3 ±1.7 during administration of 20 mg of nifedipine (P < 0.05 for both doses of active drug versus placebo). Nitroglycerin consumption similarly decreased from 8.9 ± 2.3 tablets per patient per week (placebo) to 4.8 ± 1.4 tablets during administration of 10 mg of nifedipine and to 4.2 ± 1.2 during therapy with 20 mg of the drug (P < 0.05 for both doses of drug versus placebo). Duration of treadmill exercise increased from 368 ± 50 seconds (placebo) to 471 ± 72 seconds at the 10 mg dose of nifedipine and 522 ± 79 seconds at 20 mg (P < 0.05 for both doses versus placebo). Maximal S-T segment shift and product of heart rate × systolic blood pressure did not differ between the placebo period and that of active drug therapy. Treadmill exercise performed during subsequent double-blind, randomized crossover treatment with placebo and nifedipine revealed increased exercise duration after nifedipine therapy (524 ± 49 seconds) compared with that after placebo (462 ± 52 seconds) (P < 0.005) but, again, maximal S-T shift and the product of heart rate × systolic blood pressure did not differ. Side effects from nifedipine were minor and easily tolerable. The results seem to indicate that nifedipine prolongs exercise time by decreasing heart rate × systolic blood pressure product at a given work load, possibly in a manner similar to that of long-acting nitrate therapy.
Parents' Religious Affiliation and Family Support for Student Activism.

The influence of the family on the protest-proneness of college youth has been a focus of concern of several observers (e.g., 2, 4 ) . The available data indicate that student leftpolitical activists are not rebelling against core family values; rather, through their attempts to effect social reform, these individuals seem to be living out the sociopolitical convictions of their parents or other family members (3, 5, 6, 7 ) . Another consistent finding in this regard is that persons indicating Jewish affiliation or coming from Jewish homes are disproportionately represented among activist-oriented youth (e.g., 1, 6, 7 ) . Together, these trends suggest that the families of Jewish students are more inclined to support, or less disposed to proscribe, left-political activism than the families of Christian students. As part of a larger scudy of student activism, 78 introductory psychology volunteers who had indicated either Christian ( N = 72, 51 Protestant and 21 Catholic) or Jewish ( N = 6 ) affiliation for both parents completed a measure of the degree of support for activism they perceived to exist in their immediate family climates? Since no difference was found between the family support for activism scores of the Protestant and Catholic Ss, their data were combined. Despite the small Jewish sample, those students' family support scores (M = 8.67, SD = 1.4) were significantly higher than the scores ( M = 7.08, SD = 1.8) of their counterparts of Christian background ( t = 2.13, d f = 76, p < .05, twotailed). This finding of a perceived relative absence of family disapproval for engaging in political activism among 6 Jewish students is congruent with Flacks ( I ) and Lipset's ( 4 ) bclicf that Jtwish homes are more permissive than Christian ones. In addition, the present results suygcst indirectly that student political activists are behaving in accordance with, rather rhan In opposition to, the expectations of family members.
Giant urethral diverticulum in an adult male: a complication of the artificial urinary sphincter.

Urethral diverticulum in the male is a rare entity that may be congenital or acquired. An acquired diverticulum usually results from infection, urethral stricture or trauma.1 Patients typically present with symptoms of urinary incontinence, dysuria, perineal pain, or a mass on the ventral aspect of the genitalia or perineum. We report a case of a large male urethral diverticulum occurring after placement of an artificial urinary sphincter (AUS). CASE REPORT A 70-year-old male underwent radical retropubic prostatectomy for adenocarcinoma of the prostate in 1997. Postoperatively, incontinence and erectile dysfunction developed, and in 1999 the patient underwent placement of an inflatable penile prosthesis and AUS. During the following 2 to 3 years he experienced progressive left scrotal swelling, intermittent dysuria, recurrent urinary tract infections and microhematuria. He was treated with long-term antibiotic therapy. Ultimately, radiographic evaluation demonstrated urethral extravasation with associated urinoma. The AUS was removed and the urinoma drained. A urethral catheter was left indwelling. He was subsequently evaluated after the catheter had been indwelling for 3 months. A repeat retrograde urethrogram at that time revealed persistent extravasation of contrast material from the bulbous urethra. Physical examination showed passage of urine from the meatus around the urethral catheter with palpation of the visibly enlarged scrotum. Voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) demonstrated a large urethral diverticulum filling the scrotum during the voiding phase (fig. 1). Flexible cystoscopy confirmed an opening within the mid bulbous urethra leading into an extensive smooth walled diverticulum. The patient underwent surgical exploration in the exaggerated lithotomy position. An 18Fr soft silicone catheter was placed through the urethra and into the bladder. A midline perineal and scrotal incision was made. The large diverticulum was identified and dissected from the surrounding tissues. After it was free ventrally and laterally the diverticulum was opened to expose better its communication with the urethra (fig. 2). After complete resection of the diverticulum the urethra was closed with interrupted 4-zero polydioxanone sutures. The operative wound was then closed in layers and drained. VCUG 2 weeks postoperatively revealed a nicely patent urethra without extravasation. The patient was to be considered for a repeat AUS after approximately 6 months.
The Macular Buckling Technique in the Treatment of Optic Disk Pit Maculopathy

In 1988 we introduced the macular buckling procedure for the treatment of optic disk pit maculopathy and we have been applying it since then. The surgery consists of a scleral sponge fixation of 7.5 × 5.5 mm at the posterior pole of the globe corresponding to the macula along the vertical axis of the 12 to 6 o'clock meridian. No additional treatment of any kind (laser, diathermy, or cryotherapy) is used. The correct positioning of the sponge during the surgery is monitored by B-scan ukrasonography. Within the first week after surgery, indocyanine green angiography (ICG) is used to evaluate the choroidal circulation. During the same period, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the orbit is performed to determine the sponge position in relation to the optic nerve. We analyze the results of 23 eyes with optic disk pit maculopathy that underwent surgery with the macular buckling technique between November 1988 and December 1998. In 20 of them the macula and the surrounding area of the retina became completely ...
Hypothermia associated withpercutaneous nephrolithotomy

Abstract Objectives. To characterize the perioperative fall in core body temperatureassociated with percutaneous nephrolithotomy, and to identify patients at greater risk of hypothermia. Methods. A retrospective review was undertaken of core body temperatures in 77 patientswho underwent 95 percutaneous-nephrolithotomy (PNL) procedures using room temperature irrigants over a 3 year period. Intraoperative temperature measurements were obtained via an esophageal thermistor probe. Results. Mean core body temperature fell from 36.7°C preoperatively to 35.8°C afterretrograde manipulations and subsequent patient positioning before commencing the renal puncture. The mean core temperature fell an additional mean 1.0°C during the percutaneous nephrolithotomy. This additional temperature drop was proportional to the length of the procedure. Female patients had a significantly greater decline in intraoperative core body temperature than male patients (p Conclusions. Hypothermia occurs in the majority of patients undergoing PNL. Nearly an equivalent fall in temperature is seen during presurgical preparation, induction of anesthesia, and patient positioning as is seen during the surgical procedure itself. Efforts to preserve core body temperature both before and during the percutaneous procedure may reduce the degree of hypothermia and its potential complications.
Strategies for the Shannon Switching Game

(1996). Strategies for the Shannon Switching Game. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 103, No. 3, pp. 250-252.
“The Vision Thing”: Educational Research and AERA in the 21st Century Part 2: Competing Visions for Enhancing the Impact of Educational Research

Editor's note: This is the second in a series of mini-feature articles by former presidents of the American Educational Research Association about the future of the association and educational research in general. This particular collection of brief essays presents quite different visions of how to enhance the impact of educational research in the policymaking arena. These essays and the other brief articles in this series were gathered and submitted by Jane Stallings, a former association president. They were originally presented in two symposia Dr. Stallings organized for the 1996 AERA annual meeting in New York City. The symposia featured presentations by presidents from 1963-1964 to 1993-1994. All but two of the original presenters agreed to have their work included in this series. The papers have been grouped topically and, in some instances, shortened by the features editor. It is hoped that this series will generate others to think and write about the future of our field. We are particularly interested in receiving submissions--either feature-length articles or briefer pieces that could be considered for additional installments of "The Vision Thing" series-from those whose life experiences and/or socialization to the field have led them to think differently than those who have been elected president of AERA.
Reduced levels of globular and asymmetric forms of acetylcholinesterase in rat left ventricle with pressure overload hypertrophy

The aim of the present work was to determine the effect of abdominal aortic stenosis on molecular forms of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in rat heart. Pressure-overload, left ventricular hypertrophy was produced in male Sprague-Dawley rats by suprarenal abdominal aortic constriction. After two weeks the relative heart weight was increased over 20% compared to sham-surgical controls, mostly due to left ventricular enlargement. Aortic constriction reduced AChE activity per wet weight and per unit protein by 25-30% in the left ventricle and interventricular septum, but not in the other chambers. However, total AChE activity per chamber was normal in the left ventricle and interventricular septum, but was elevated in the atria. The molecular forms of AChE were separated in linear sucrose gradients and their specific activities were calculated from the resulting percent activities and total AChE activities. This data showed that although aortic constriction had no effect on ratios of the various forms, it did reduce the specific activities of globular and asymmetric forms in the left ventricle and interventricular septum. The reduced AChE activity suggests that slower rates of ACh hydrolysis occur in the left ventricle in pressure-overload hypertrophy.
Gestural interfaces for immersive environments

We are witnessing an explosion of new forms of Human Computer Interaction devices lately for both laboratory research and home use. With these new affordance in user interfaces (UI), how can gestures be used to improve interaction for large scale immersive display environments. Through the investigation of full body, head and hand tracking, this paper will discuss various modalities of gesture recognition and compare their usability to other forms of interactivity. We will explore a specific implementation of hand gesture tracking within a large tiled display environment for use with common collaborative media interaction activities.
SNP panel identification assay (SPIA): a genetic-based assay for the identification of cell lines

Translational research hinges on the ability to make observations in model systems and to implement those findings into clinical applications, such as the development of diagnostic tools or targeted therapeutics. Tumor cell lines are commonly used to model carcinogenesis. The same tumor cell line can be simultaneously studied in multiple research laboratories throughout the world, theoretically generating results that are directly comparable. One important assumption in this paradigm is that researchers are working with the same cells. However, recent work using high throughput genomic analyses questions the accuracy of this assumption. Observations by our group and others suggest that experiments reported in the scientific literature may contain pre-analytic errors due to inaccurate identities of the cell lines employed. To address this problem, we developed a simple approach that enables an accurate determination of cell line identity by genotyping 34 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Here, we describe the empirical development of a SNP panel identification assay (SPIA) compatible with routine use in the laboratory setting to ensure the identity of tumor cell lines and human tumor samples throughout the course of long term research use.
Measurement of arginase activity

Abstract Current methods for determining arginase ( l -arginine amidinohydrolase, EC 3.5.3.1) activity involve the measurement of urea. The carbon dioxide evolved through the action of urease has been measured manometrically (1–3), although more frequently ammonia is determined by established but cumbersome procedures (4, 5). Urea also is measured colorimetrically. Its reaction with isonitrosopropriophenone in addition to requiring a one-half hour heating period leads to the formation of an unstable colored reaction product. Similarly, its reaction with xanthydrol (6, 7) results in the formation of a photolabile product, dixanthylurea. Recently a method was introduced which takes advantage of the different absorptivities of arginine, ornithine, and urea at 206 mμ (8). Urea and p -dimethylaminobenzaldehyde (Ehrlich reagent) react in dilute H 2 SO 4 to form N -( p -dimethylamino)benzalurea, which is stable for a day or more. The measurement of urea in arginase reaction mixtures using this reaction is described.
The importance of networking in the academic and professional experiences of racial minority students in the USA

Through examination of the experiences of minority undergraduate doctoral aspirants in the United States, this study points to the importance of academic and professional influences of networking, as well as its role in the academic attainment and professional experiences of underrepresented groups in academe. The findings suggest that networking positively influences academic and professional lives of marginalized racial minority students. Recommendations for providing meaningful networking opportunities to students for postsecondary administrators and faculty are provided.
Defining Homosexuality: News Coverage of the `Repeal the Ban' Controversy

This paper examines news coverage in the Washington Post of President Clinton's attempt to repeal the ban on gay men and lesbians in the military. The analysis found that coverage presented a male, heterosexist discourse which reinforced homophobic myths and stereotypes, promoted militarism and rendered women invisible while legitimating arguments against repeal of the ban. The analysis also demonstrates how gender, race, class and sexual orientation were constructed within the narrative to support the argument against repeal. The findings point to ways in which `gay-ness' and `lesbian-ness' can be rearticulated to promote positive social change.
Observations of X rays from near NGC6440

ON nine separate occasions between October 27, 1971, and January 6, 1973, the MIT instrument aboard OSO-7 scanned the region of sky within about 10° of the galactic centre. Subsequent analysis of this data, in the form of all-sky maps, led to the discovery of several previously unreported X-ray sources1. The most intense of these, MX1746–20, was found at α = 17 h 46.0 min.δ = −20° 22.2′ (1950.0) or, in galactic coordinates lII = 7.73°, bII = 3.76°. The 90% confidence contour for this position is a circle of radius approximately 0.26°. This uncertainty includes an estimate of the probable aspect error as well as statistical uncertainty.
Genomic organization of the mouse Tla locus: study of an endogenous retroviruslike locus reveals polymorphisms related to different Tla haplotypes.

A retrovirus element (TLev1) is located within the Thymus leukemia antigen (T7a) locus of the C57BL/10 mouse major histocompatibility complex. Low-copy probes have been isolated from sequences flanking the TLev1 integration site to examine the distribution of TLev1 among inbred mouse strains having genotypically determined variations in TL-antigen expression. It was found that the low-copy probes cross-hybridize to regions within the Tla locus in a genotype-specific manner. Although a strong association was found between TL mouse strains and TLev1, the presence or absence of the TLev1 locus did not exclusively correlate with expression or nonexpression of TL antigens. Analysis of different Mus subspecies indicates that TLev1 integrated into a common ancestor of the species Mus musculus. It is suggested that the loss of the TLev1 locus from certain mouse genomes reflects evolutionary rearrangements in the TL region; the resulting diversity may relate to the differential expression of TL antigens among mouse strains. The probes described here provide a useful tool for examining the genomic expansions and contractions which have occurred during the evolution of the Tla locus
Earthquake hazard in Jordan

An estimate of the maximum macroseismic intensities and ground accelerations which might be expected for the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is made. The inferred maximum magnitudes lie in the range of 6.1 to 7.3 although the possibility that larger earthquakes can occur with long recurrence times cannot be precluded. Peak horizontal accelerations in the range of 0.4 to 0.5 g can be expected in Jordan. Probabilistic estimates indicate that the odds are about even (50-50) that an earthquake with a magnitude of at least 6 will occur within 80 years.
BootJacker: compromising computers using forced restarts

BootJacker is a proof-of-concept attack tool which demonstrates that authentication mechanisms employed by an operating system can be bypassed by obtaining physical access and simply forcing a restart. The key insight that enables this attack is that the contents of memory on some machines are fully preserved across a warm boot. Upon a reboot, BootJacker uses this residual memory state to revive the original host operating system environment and run malicious payloads. Using BootJacker, an attacker can break into a locked user session and gain access to open encrypted disks, web browser sessions or other secure network connections. BootJacker's non-persistent design makes it possible for an attacker to leave no traces on the victim machine.
Numerical studies of microturbulence in water

Abstract By combining a classical molecular N-body dynamics with Maxwell-Boltzman thermodynamics a system of several hundred differential equations is solved on a supercomputer to demonstrate a transition to turbulence.
Alcohol Use, Alcohol Problems, and Depressive Symptomatology Among Newly Married Couples

Background: Individuals married to heavy drinking spouses often have poorer health compared to those whose spouses are not heavy drinkers. This work examined how one spouse’s alcohol involvement and alcohol-related problems affect his/her spouse’s depressive symptomatology over time.
Altered Acetylcholine Metabolism of Brain in Uremia: Role of Secondary Hyperparathyroidism

Objective Cholinergic system and its neurotransmitter, acetylcholine (ACh), play a major role in both behavior and motor function of the nervous system. Cholinergic neurons synthesize ACh from choline and acetyl-CoA by choline acetyltransferase in the nerve ending. The release of ACh in response to nerve impulses is dependent on the intracellular calcium ([Ca 2+ ]i) concentration and its gradient. The regulation of a synthesis of ACh after depolarization and ACh release is controlled by mass-action effect on choline acetyltransferase equilibrium. Behavioral and motor changes in uremia may be due in part to derangements in ACh metabolism and such possible abnormalities may be related to the state of secondary hyperparathyroidism of chronic renal failure (CRF). Design We studied ACh and choline content, choline release, choline kinase activity in brain synaptosomes of CRF with and without secondary hyperparathyroidism and in CRF rats treated with verapamil which normalize [Ca 2+ ]i in brain synaptosomes of CRF rats. Results The content of ACh of brain synaptosomes increased progressively with the duration of CRF from 3 to 6 weeks. ACh and choline release as well as choline uptake were significantly higher in CRF rats at all time intervals studied. Conclusion Choline content and the activity of choline kinase of brain synaptosomes were deceased after 3 weeks of CRF and were significantly lower than in synaptosomes of normal. Normalization of ACh and choline content as well as ACh release and the activity of choline kinase by parathyroidectomy or treatment with verapamil but these maneuvers did not prevent the rise in choline uptake and choline release. Resting levels of cytosolic calcium of brain synaptosomes in rats with CRF were significantly higher (437 ± 9 nM) as compared to normal rats (345 ± 9 nM). This rise in [Ca 2+ ]i was prevented either by parathyroidectomy prior induction of CRF or by treatment of CRF rats with calcium channel blocker verapamil.
Decline in mitochondrial bioenergetics and shift to ketogenic profile in brain during reproductive senescence

Abstract Background We have previously demonstrated that mitochondrial bioenergetic deficits precede Alzheimer's pathology in the female triple transgenic Alzheimer's (3xTgAD) mouse model. Herein, we sought to determine the impact of reproductive senescence on mitochondrial function in the normal non-transgenic (nonTg) and 3xTgAD female mouse model of AD. Methods Both nonTg and 3xTgAD female mice at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months of age were sacrificed and mitochondrial bioenergetic profile as well as oxidative stress markers were analyzed. Results In both nonTg and 3xTgAD mice, reproductive senescence paralleled a significant decline in PDH, and Complex IV cytochrome c oxidase activity and mitochondrial respiration. During the reproductive senescence transition, both nonTg and 3xTgAD mice exhibited greater individual variability in bioenergetic parameters suggestive of divergent bioenergetic phenotypes. Following transition through reproductive senescence, enzymes required for long-chain fatty acid (HADHA) and ketone body (SCOT) metabolism were significantly increased and variability in cytochrome c oxidase (Complex IV) collapsed to cluster at a ∼ 40% decline in both the nonTg and 3xTgAD brain which was indicative of alternative fuel generation with concomitant decline in ATP generation. Conclusions These data indicate that reproductive senescence in the normal nonTg female brain parallels the shift to ketogenic/fatty acid substrate phenotype with concomitant decline in mitochondrial function and exacerbation of bioenergetic deficits in the 3xTgAD brain. General significance These findings provide a plausible mechanism for increased life-time risk of AD in postmenopausal women and suggest an optimal window of opportunity to prevent or delay decline in bioenergetics during reproductive senescence.
Evidence for the involvement of macrophage-derived nitric oxide in the modulation of immune status by a conditioned aversive stimulus

Prior work in our laboratory has demonstrated that exposure to a conditioned aversive stimulus developed through pairings with electric shock results in pronounced alterations of immune status. These conditioned alterations of immune status include a decreased in natural killer cell activity, decreased production of interleukin-2 and gamma-interferon by concanavalin A (ConA)-stimulated splenocytes and a profound suppression of the mitogenic responsiveness of T and B lymphocytes to mitogens. The present study examines the role of macrophage-derived nitric oxide in the conditioned stimulus-induced suppression of lymphocyte proliferation by measuring the level of nitrite accumulation in culture, determining the effect of macrophage depletion, and assessing the effect of NG-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA), a specific inhibitor of the L-arginine-dependent nitric-oxide synthesizing pathway, alone and in combination with L- or D-arginine. The results show that the conditioned suppression of the mitogenic responsiveness of splenocytes to ConA is accompanied by a marked increase in nitrite accumulation. Both the depletion of macrophages and the addition of L-NMMA attenuates the conditioned suppression of ConA-stimulated lymphocyte proliferation. Furthermore, the addition of excess L-arginine, but not D-arginine, counteracts the effect of L-NMMA. The present findings show that the neuroendocrine alterations induced by a conditioned aversive stimulus suppress lymphocyte proliferation through alteration of the production of nitric oxide by macrophages.
Adsorption and Desorption of HCl on Ice

Pulsed molecular beam and mass spectrometric techniques are used to study the adsorption of hydrogen chloride on thin ice films at temperatures from 100 to 170 K. The adsorption and desorption of HCl from an ice surface is relevant to the polar stratosphere where it is thought that chlorine atoms are liberated from reservoir species such as HCl by heterogeneous reactions occurring on the surface of polar stratospheric clouds. We have measured the sticking coefficient for HCl at an incident translational energy of 0.09 eV on thin film ice surfaces using a modified version of the reflectivity technique of King and Wells. By modeling the HCl partial pressure versus time waveforms for surface temperatures of 100−125 K, we obtain a sticking coefficient of 0.91 ± 0.06. The model incorporates first-order HCl desorption and a loss term also first order in HCl. Fitted kinetic parameters are Edes = 28 kJ/mol, νdes = 2 × 1014 s-1 for desorption and Eloss = 21 kJ/mol, νloss = 4 × 1011 s-1 for the loss. The loss may b...
Differential gonadotropin responses to N-methyl-D,L-aspartate in metestrous, proestrous, and ovariectomized rats.

Peripheral administration of N-methyl-D,L-aspartate (NMA), an analogue of the excitatory amino acid aspartate, elicits LH and prolactin (PRL) release in rats, most likely by increasing endogenous releasing-hormone secretion. These experiments were carried out to assess the degree to which NMA stimulates FSH and to analyze the relationship between endocrine status and responsiveness to NMA in female rats, in contrast to male rats, as described in the companion paper [Biol Reprod 48:000-000]. In experiment 1, estrous rats (n = 10) and diestrous rats (n = 10) and in experiment 2, estrous rats (n = 11) and rats ovariectomized (OVX) 8 days previously (n = 10) were fitted with atrial catheters and injected s.c. with 100 micrograms of an LHRH antagonist or vehicle at 2100 h. Starting at 0900 h the next day (metestrus, proestrus, or Day 9 post-OVX), blood was withdrawn every 10 min for 3 h. Each animal received i.v. 5 mg NMA after the first hour and i.v. 500 ng LHRH after the second hour. NMA significantly increased LH in metestrous and proestrous females, and LHRH antagonist blunted the increases. In OVX females, LH decreased after NMA. FSH was not affected by NMA in any group. PRL increased after NMA in proestrous and metestrous animals. LHRH caused surge-like LH and small FSH increases in vehicle groups; these increases did not differ in amplitude between intact and OVX animals and were blunted by pretreatment with LHRH antagonist. In experiment 3, 10 diestrous rats were fitted with atrial catheters and were serially bled at 2-h intervals from 1200 h on the following day (proestrus) until 0600 h on estrus morning. After the first sample the animals were injected s.c. with 0.2 mg/kg MK801, a noncompetitive NMA receptor antagonist, or with saline. Four of the 5 saline-treated animals exhibited surges of LH and FSH as well as elevated progesterone levels, with LH and progesterone peaking at 2000 h. Five of 5 MK801-treated animals failed to have elevated LH, FSH, or progesterone levels at any time point. These data demonstrate that LHRH mediates the LH response to NMA in rats and that endogenous NMA receptor binding may be necessary for the preovulatory gonadotropin surges. The lack of FSH responses to NMA during periods of low-level gonadotropin secretion suggests that physiological increments in endogenous LHRH secretion sufficient to induce a pulse of LH are insufficient to stimulate pulse-like FSH release.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Controlled‐release delivery system for the α‐MSH analog Melanotan‐I using poloxamer 407

The overall objective of these studies was to develop a controlled-release formulation of Melanotan-I (MT-I) containing poloxamer 407 (P407). Various aqueous formulations were evaluated containing MT-I and 25% w/v P407 alone, or with one of the following additives present, i.e., poly(vinylpyrrolidone) 10 000 (PVP), methylcellulose (MC), or hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC). The in-vitro release profiles of MT-I from the P407 formulations and the dissolution of the gel were obtained simultaneously using a membraneless in-vitro model. These data were obtained at 37 °C and room temperature (24 °C). It was observed that the PVP-containing P407 formulations of MT-I accelerated the dissolution of gel and the release of the peptide compared to the control formulation. The formulations containing MC or HPMC exhibited the slowest dissolution rates and release of MT-I. The same rank order was observed for the dissolution and release profiles of MT-I from the various formulations at both temperatures. The in-vivo release kinetics of selected formulations were analyzed in guinea pigs following intrap-eritoneal administration. The plasma concentration–time profiles showed an extended release of the peptide formulated with gel compared to the intraperitoneal administration of MT-I in solution. On the basis of the in-vitro and in-vivo results, the P407 formulations of MT-I with MC or HPMC as an additive showed potential for use as a controlled-release delivery system for MT-I.
Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis After Cervical Spine Epidural Injection

Headache is a common presenting complaint to the emergency department. Benign causes must be differentiated from life threatening causes. Cerebral venous thrombosis is a rare disease that has significant morbidity. This is a case report of a 36-year-old female who presented to multiple emergency departments within the span of 1 week after having a cervical spine epidural injection for her chronic neck pain. She was told repeatedly by multiple emergency departments that she had a spinal headache, but was ultimately diagnosed with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. This case demonstrates a rare disease presenting with a common complaint and highlights the importance of considering alternative diagnoses and maintaining a broad differential diagnosis for headaches, especially in the face of an obvious cause. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.4021/jmc924w
Teaching and learning apheresis medicine: The Bermuda Triangle in Education

Apheresis Medicine has evolved markedly due to an explosion of knowledge and technology, whereas the time available for training has shrunk as curricula have become increasingly overloaded. Apheresis teaching has inherited a strong clinical context where real patient problems are used in a hands-on environment. To optimize instruction, those involved in the education of apheresis professionals need to have (1) knowledge of how clinical laboratory medicine education has developed as a field, (2) an understanding of what is known from theory and research about how people learn, and (3) the skills to design teaching/learning activities in ways consistent with literature-based principles of adult education. These developments in education provide a context for curriculum projects currently underway by the American Society for Apheresis. Teachers must determine which competencies are central to the essence of a trained professional. Specific, robust, learning objectives targeted toward the development of higher levels of thinking, professional attitudes, and requisite skills are formulated to guide the learner toward mastering those competencies. Curriculum is developed for each objective, consisting of content and the best teaching/learning methods to help learners attain the objective. Appropriate assessment strategies are identified to determine whether the objective is being achieved. The integration of objectives, curriculum, and assessment creates The Bermuda Triangle of Education (Richter, The Circle of Learning and Bermuda Triangle in Education, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, 2004). When educators do not effectively navigate The Bermuda Triangle of Education, learning may disappear into the murky depths of confusion and apathy. When successfully navigated, the result will be a significant learning experience that leads to transformation through education. J. Clin. Apheresis, 2010. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Evidence for tissue-specific forms of glutaminyl cyclase

Glutaminyl cyclase (QC) is responsible for the presence of pyroglutamyl residues in many neuroendocrine peptides. An examination of the bovine tissue distribution of QC immunoreactivity, enzyme activity, and mRNA confirmed that QC was abundant in brain and pituitary by all three measures. However, enzymatic activity was considerably more widespread than either immunoreactivity or mRNA, suggesting multiple enzyme forms. Partially purified QC from bovine spleen differed significantly from the known bovine pituitary QC in physical and catalytic properties. We propose that this form of glutaminyl cyclase plays a role in the posttranslational processing of constitutively secreted pGlu-containing proteins.
Optical rotatory dispersion of viruses

The optical rotatory dispersion spectra of the following 16 viruses were measured: T2, T2(gt), T4, T6, T6(gt), λc, λ(K), λ(C), X174, T5, T7, B3, MS2, f2, R17 and α. T2 ghosts and T2, λ(C), λ(K), T7 and X174 DNA's and R17 RNA were also measured. The effect of high concentrations of lithium chloride salts at neutral pH on the DNA molecule in solution was also studied in relation to the packing of the DNA into the head of bacteriophages. The influence of the protein coat on the optical rotatory dispersion is shown to be small in the region above 250 mμ for DNA viruses of high nucleic acid content (∼50%), and for those viruses with nucleic acid content of around 25 to 30%; it is small above 280 mμ. The optical rotatory dispersion spectra of different types of viruses are qualitatively and quantitatively different. However, a difference spectrum of the nucleic acid inside and outside the virus shows qualitative similarities among all the DNA viruses tested. This indicates that the packing of the nucleic acid inside the virus has a common characteristic. Furthermore, the optical rotatory dispersion of the intact phage cannot be explained as the simple sum of the optical rotatory dispersion of the nucleic acid plus that of the protein coat. But the optical rotatory dispersion of osmotically shocked phage can be obtained by summing the optical rotatory dispersion of the DNA plus that of the ghost in solution. Equations are developed relating the different components of phage structure with the optical rotation spectra of the virus.
Nitric oxide scavenger carboxy-PTIO potentiates the inhibition of dopamine uptake by nitric oxide donors

2-(4-carboxyphenyl)-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl-3-oxide (carboxy-PTIO) has been increasingly used as nitric oxide (NO) scavenger. Carboxy-PTIO reacts with NO to form nitric dioxide and 2-(4-carboxyphenyl)-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl (carboxy-PTI). In rat C6 glioma cells expressing human dopamine transporter, carboxy-PTIO paradoxically potentiated the inhibition of [(3)H]dopamine uptake by two NO donors, diethylamine/NO and (Z)-1-[N-(3-ammoniopropyl)-N-(n-propyl)-amino]/NO. Further examinations revealed that carboxy-PTI concentration-dependently reduced dopamine uptake, indicating that the formation of carboxy-PTI may account for the failure of carboxy-PTIO to abolish NO elicited effects. These results suggest that caution should be taken in interpreting data obtained using carboxy-PTIO and probably other NO scavengers.
Persistent Rhodococcus equi infection in a renal transplant patient: case report and review of the literature.

Rhodococcus equi is a pathogen that mainly causes infection in immunocompromised hosts. We report a case of relapsing R. equi pulmonary infection in a 57-year-old male renal transplant recipient who was treated with 12 months of antibiotics, adjunctive surgery, and a reduction in his immunosuppression. He suffered from relapsing disease, treatment-related complications, and ultimately died of Pneumocystis pneumonia. Case reports in the literature portray a good cure rate for transplant-related R. equi infections, with shorter durations of antibiotics. The case illustrates the difficulties in the management of R. equi infections. Forty cases from the literature were reviewed and compared in terms of epidemiology, location of infection, transplant type, immunosuppression used, treatment used, outcomes, and possible exposures.
Left ventricular function during and after right ventricular pacing.

Objectives The aim of this research was to evaluate right ventricular pacing effects on left ventricular function. Background Right ventricular pacing alters the ventricular activation sequence and reduces left ventricular ejection fraction (EF). It is unclear whether the observed reduction in EF can be completely attributed to the alteration in activation sequence. Methods Twelve subjects (eight women), mean age 68 ± 12 years, with transvenous dual-chamber pacemakers, normal left ventricular function, and intact atrioventricular (AV) conduction were studied with serial-gated blood pool studies. Left ventricular EF was measured at a fixed rate after at least 1 week of atrial pacing only (baseline), during short-term (2 h) and mid-term (1 week) AV sequential pacing with a short AV delay, and after short- and mid-term AV pacing. Results Baseline EF was 66.5 ± 4.5%. Short-term AV pacing resulted in a decrease in EF to 60.3 ± 5.2% (p l 0.0002). After one week of AV pacing, there was a further decline in EF to 52.9 ± 8.3% (p l 0.0001). After cessation of mid-term pacing, EF was 57.3 ± 5.9% (p l 0.0001 vs. baseline). A total of 2, 5, 8, and 24 h later, EF remained depressed (59% to 60%, p l 0.007). At 32 h, EF was 62.9 ± 7.6% (p l 0.11 compared with baseline). Conclusions The abnormal activation sequence resulting from right ventricular pacing accounts for only part of the reduction in EF as mid-term pacing is associated with a lower EF than short-term pacing, and EF remains depressed after cessation of AV pacing. Changes in ventricular function induced by right ventricular pacing may account for some of its associated adverse effects.
Markov and renewal models for total manpower system

Abstract This study compares the predictive utility of three stochastic models for both total manpower system and cohort personnel movement. The models are all discrete time versions, including a first order Markov chain, a Markov chain with duration of stay (semi-Markov) and a vacancy model having both renewal and Markov properties. The analysis covers a continuous 20 year period: 1950–1970 for a state police (U.S.A.) internal labor market. The simple Markov chain model is inadequate for long term cohort forecasts, but reasonably adequate for long term organizational forecasts. The semi-Markov model outperforms the simple Markov model for cohorts, but is surprisingly less accurate for the total organization. The heuristic information it portrays for the cohort is, however, quite informative. The best model for intermediate (5 year) and long term (10 year) forecasts in both cohort and organizational tests is the renewal type vacancy model. This finding is viewed as particularly important both in terms of empirical performance, which we expect can be improved due to the initial simplifying assumptions used, and in terms of further theoretical explication of the underlying causal process since internal staff flows are conceptualized as contingent on the opportunities available.
Surgical treatment of calcinosis cutis in the upper extremity

Recent surgical experience with 11 cases of calcinosis cutis has given the authors an opportunity to define the role of surgery in the management of this condition. In scleroderma associated with dermatomyositis, when complications or disability arise from one or more areas of calcinosis, surgery may give significant palliation. Wound healing, although a potential problem, does not constitute a contraindication to operative treatment. Damage to deep structures usually is avoidable, but in some instances is a reasonable trade-off for the benefits obtained. Follow-up has confirmed that surgery is beneficial to patient comfort and function, even in the few patients in whom some calcinosis recurred.
Millimeter size patch behavior of gecko-inspired reversible adhesive

A synthetic adhesive inspired by the gecko should replicate the important properties found on the animal, but does not need to be a direct copy of its system. This paper describes the fabrication and testing of micron-sized vertical and tilted rectangular flaps composed of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) that successfully mimic key characteristics found on the creature. Rectangular flaps have been chosen in order to create large areas of contact on the face of the structures after shearing, similar to the animal's terminal structures. Additionally, an angle has been implemented to generate anisotropy in the system and offer comparisons with the vertical counterparts. The performance of the structures is characterized by measuring adhesion, shear, and shear adhesion forces with flat on flat testing geometry over an area of roughly 12 mm2 using a high precision home-built testing apparatus.
Complementary AlGaAs/GaAs HBT I/sup 2/L (CHI/sup 2/L) technology

The monolithic integration of non-self-aligned AlGaAs/GaAs N-p-n and P-n-p HBTs with selective organometallic vapor-phase epitaxy (OMVPE) has been utilized to demonstrate a low-power high-speed integrated injection logic (I/sup 2/L) technology. Seventeen-stage ring oscillators with a logic swing of 0.7 V exhibited a delay of 65 ps per gate with power dissipation of 13 mW per gate for a speed-power product of 850 fJ. This value was in excellent agreement with SPICE simulations based on extracted device parameters which predicted a speed-power product of 840 fJ. Additional simulations predicated a 28-fJ speed-power product and more than a factor of 2 reduction in gate delay with improved epitaxial design and use of submicrometer emitters and self-aligned processing. >
The Action of Ethyl Carbamate on Oxidative Phosphorylation

Ethyl carbamate inhibits α-ketoglutarate oxidation and phosphorylation proportionately, but does not affect succinate oxidation or its coupled phosphorylation in rat liver mitochondrial preparations. Oxidative phosphorylation uncoupling effect is not a general mechanism of action of narcotics.
Inhibition of oxidative stress and improvement of endothelial function by amlodipine in angiotensin II-infused rats.

Abstract Background Calcium channel blockers such as amlodipine are effective antihypertensive agents. In this study we investigated the effects of amlodipine on vascular oxidative stress, expression of the lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor (LOX-1), and endothelial function in angiotensin (Ang) II-infused rats. Methods Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with Ang II (0.7 mg/kg/day subcutaneously injected by mini-pump), with or without amlodipine (10 mg/kg/day by gavage), for 5 days and compared with control rats. Levels of aortic ring superoxide (O2−) and peroxynitrite (ONOO−) were determined, and systolic blood pressure (SBP) and endothelium-dependent relaxation were evaluated. Results Compared with control rats, Ang II-infused rats developed hypertension (175 ± 3 v 135 ± 2 mm Hg, P Conclusions Amlodipine has antihypertensive and antioxidant activity in vivo, which effectively inhibits many of the oxidative stress-dependent mechanisms involved in Ang II-mediated cardiovascular injury.