cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Arachidonic acid metabolites after excimer laser corneal surgery

Objective: We investigated early mediators of inflammation following excimer laser ablation in a rabbit cornea model. The ability of topical anti-inflammatory agents to influence these responses was also examined. Methods: Adult New Zealand white rabbits were subjected to photorefractive keratectomy with a 193-nm argon fluoride excimer laser. Prostaglandin E 2 and leukotriene B 4 levels were measured using an enzyme immunoassay, and leukocyte infiltration was determined histologically. Results: Prostaglandin E 2 production was rapid and sustained, but we were unable to detect the presence of leukotriene B 4 . Relative to control, postoperative topical diclofenac sodium treatment caused a significant decrease in prostaglandin E 2 levels and a significant increase in corneal leukocytes at 10 hours. Fluorometholone treatment did not significantly alter prostaglandin E 2 levels but markedly depressed leukocyte ingress. Conclusions: Diclofenac reduces prostaglandin E 2 levels but not leukocyte infiltration in the cornea following photorefractive keratectomy and thus may be useful clinically to reduce postsurgical pain.
Value of 18-Fluoro-2-Deoxyglucose PET in the Management of Patients with Fever of Unknown Origin

Timely identification of the cause of fever of unknown origin (FUO) is crucial for patient management. The initial evaluation for FUO includes a thorough history, physical examination, and standard laboratory and imaging tests. Advanced diagnostic imaging modalities, such as CT, MRI, and standard nuclear medicine procedures, are commonly used for the assessment of these patients. This article reviews different diagnostic imaging studies that are currently used for examining patients with FUO but also focuses on the role of 18-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose positron emission tomography and its impact on the management of patients with FUO.
Comparison of polymerization catalyzed by thesyn andanti diastereomers of [ethylidene(1-η5-tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)(1-η5-indenyl)]titanium dichloride and methylaluminoxane

Both the pure anti (1) and an equimolar mixture of1 and the syn (2) diastereomers ofrac-[ethylidene(1-η 5-tetramethylcyclopentadienyl)(1-η 5-indenyl)titanium dichloride have been synthesized. The polymerization behaviors of the two systems, activated by methylaluminoxane (MAO), have been compared from -20°C to +25°C. The2/MAO catalyst has about 30% more active species, which polymerizes propylene 20 to 50% faster depending on T p , undergoes chain transfers less frequently, and produces PP of higher molecular weight than the1/MAO system.
Effect of ionic content, solid content, degree of neutralization, and chain extension on aqueous polyurethane dispersions prepared by prepolymer method

There are many variables in the preparation of aqueous polyurethane (PU) dispersions. Carboxylic acid content, solid content, degree of pre/postneutralization of the carboxylic acids, and chain extension all impact dispersion particle size, viscosity, pH, molecular weights, and glass transition temperature. This study evaluated the impact of these variables on a given PU dispersion formulation prepared from isophorone diisocyanate, an aliphatic polyester polyol, dimethylol propionic acid, and hexamethylene diamine with triethyl amine as the neutralizing base and N-methyl pyrrolidone as the cosolvent. Changes in carboxylic acid content, degree of preneutralization, and chain extension were found to have the expected impacts on dispersions properties. Increased ionic content in the dispersion step led to lower particle size and higher viscosity, increased chain extension with its concurrent increase in molecular improved subsequent film properties. Surprising results were obtained by varying the amount of postneutralization and from increased solids content at the time of dispersion. Unexpectedly, both of these variations led to much higher dispersion viscosities and particle size in solution. To have these changes take place, it is theorized that there is a major change in solution morphology caused by these modifications. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 98: 2514–2520, 2005
Electrochemical characterization of aminated PVC‐based ion‐selective membranes

The potentiometric and impedance characteristics of a large number of pH sensitive, piperazine-based aminated PVC membranes are summarized. The main goal of the work was to predict the differences between “good” and “bad” responsive potentiometric pH membranes with very similar overall nitrogen contents. The only conclusion gained previously from other methods was that the N content should be between 0.5 and 0.8% for Nernstian response. The detailed analysis of the data show that a given N content of the basic material is a necessary but not a sufficient requirement with respect of the quality of potentiometric response. Conditions for appropriate pH response of the membrane are formulated in terms of surface and bulk impedance characteristics. The ideal pH response of an optimized aminated PVC membrane, which corresponds to a minimum surface impedance, is presented. The primary importance of surface amines relative to bulk amines (the conformation and distribution of active sites) is proven in a simple experiment.
Relationship between metabolic rate, lipofuscin accumulation and lysosomal enzyme activity during aging in the adult housefly, Musca domestica.

Abstract The objective of this study was to elucidate experimentally the significance of lipofuscin accumulation and lysosomal enzyme activity during the aging process. Average and maximum lifespans of male houseflies were extended more than two-fold by restricting flight activity. Levels of physical activity, measured by radar-Doppler system, and oxygen consumption rates were lower in the long-lived low activity flies as compared to the short-lived high activity flies. Rate of lipofuscin accumulation determined by morphometric techniques, in epithelial cells of the midgut and oenocytes of the fat body cells greater in high activity than in low activity flies. The activity of β-glycerophosphatase was unaffected by age and physical activity whereas ribonuclease levels decreased with age but remained unchanged by physical activity. Levels of β-glucoronidase were lower n low activity flies than in high activity flies. The results of this studysuggest that metabolic rate accelerates the rate of lipofuscin accumulation while shortening the lifespan of houseflies and has a variable effect on the activity of different lysosomal enzymes.
Software aids for the analysis of 2D gel electrophoresis images

Abstract A computer program, FLICKER, is described for aiding the analysis of two-dimensional gel electrophoresis images. It facilitates the comparison of parts of two or more images by flicker comparison as well as enabling the extraction and measurement of operator-selected regions. Measures of image distortion and the comparison of images are available for testing the validity of biochemical differences between the gels. The measurements available include transforming the density feature into a measure of polypeptide concentration.
Monitoring Students with ADHD within the RTI Framework.

Students with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD) can present unique behavioral and academic challenges within the school environment. The Response to Intervention (RTI) and Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) move- ments have sought to formalize intervention systems to address the needs of all children. An integral component is the need for initial and ongoing assessment strategies to guide decision making. The assessment strategies reviewed were selected to provide a menu of available resources to assist in matching assessment methods to levels of student needs within the RTI and PBIS framework.
REPRODUCTIVE RESPONSES TO GRAZING ENDOPHYTE-INFECTED TALL FESCUE BY POSTPARTUM BEEF COWS

The objective was to determine pregnancy rate and stage of embryonic loss in response to grazing endophyte-free (E-; n = 20) or infected (E+; n = 30) tall fescue in postpartum beef cows with calves. Three weeks before estrus synchronization, cow-calf pairs were introduced to pastures (April 1999). Cows were synchronized and bred by AI after detected estrus for a period of 6 d and then by natural service for 62 d. Bulls were rotated weekly to minimize effects of fescue toxicosis on male fertility. Fetal development was monitored weekly between 30 and 60 d of pregnancy and at weaning using transrectal ultrasound. Respiration rate (52.0 ± 1.4 vs 46.6 breaths/min; P 0.10) and occurred after environmental temperatures rose above 37.8°C for three weeks. Total pregnancy losses that occurred by weaning (between 70 and 126 d of gestation) were 5.5 (E-) vs 17.6 (E+) ± 8.0% (P > 0.10). Pregnancy rate and embryonic losses were not different between cows grazing E- and E+ tall fescue under these management conditions.
Withdrawal from IV cocaine binges in rats : ultrasonic distress calls and startle

Human cocaine abusers report that they experience intense anxiety during withdrawal from chronic use or "binging". Because the symptoms of cocaine withdrawal are not easily observed, it has been difficult to develop an adequate animal model for cocaine withdrawal that detects anxiety-like behavior. The objective of the present study was to examine the effects of continuous access to i.v. self-administered cocaine on ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) induced by startling tactile stimuli as a possible animal model for cocaine withdrawal. Five days after implantation of a jugular catheter, rats were placed into self-administration chambers with access to cocaine (0.25 mg/infusion). Once the animal had a stable response rate over 3 days, on a fixed schedule of reinforcement (FR5), they were given unlimited access to cocaine (0.25 mg/infusion) for 48 or 12 h. Subsequently, animals were exposed to 18 air puffs (20 or 10 psi) at 6, 24, 72 h, 7 and 14 days after the "binge". Rats that self-administered cocaine for 48 h and were subsequently startled with 20 psi stimuli increased the number of automatically recorded ultrasonic distress calls and showed an enhanced startle response at 6 h after the last cocaine infusion when compared to handled controls. Animals that self-administered cocaine for 48 h and were subsequently startled with 10 psi stimuli showed increased USVs and an enhanced startle reflex at both 6 and 24 h after the unlimited access. Animals that self-administered cocaine for 12 h also showed an increase in ultrasonic distress calls and enhanced startle responses to 10 psi tactile stimuli when compared to handled controls. USVs during cocaine withdrawal may be interpreted to reflect affective distress during the first 24 h after the last cocaine infusion of 12 or 48 of continuous access to drug.
Mutational Analysis of Flucytosine Resistance in Candida glabrata

The antifungal flucytosine (5-fluorocytosine [5FC]) is a prodrug metabolized to its toxic form, 5-fluorouracil (5FU), only by organisms expressing cytosine deaminase. One such organism is Candida glabrata, which has emerged as the second most common agent of bloodstream and mucosal candidiasis. This emergence has been attributed to the high rate at which C. glabrata develops resistance to azole antifungals. As an oral agent, 5FC represents an attractive alternative or complement to azoles; however, the frequency of 5FC resistance mutations and the mechanisms by which these mutations confer resistance have been explored only minimally. On RPMI 1640 medium containing 1 μg/ml 5FC (32-fold above the MIC, but less than 1/10 of typical serum levels), resistant mutants occurred at a relatively low frequency (2 × 10−7). Three of six mutants characterized were 5FU cross-resistant, suggesting a mutation downstream of the Fcy1 gene (cytosine deaminase), which was confirmed by sequence analysis of the Fur1 gene (uracil phosphoribosyl transferase). The remaining three mutants had Fcy1 mutations. To ascertain the effects of 5FC resistance mutations on enzyme function, mutants were isolated in ura3 strains. Three of seven mutants harbored Fcy1 mutations and failed to grow in uridine-free, cytosine-supplemented medium, consistent with inactive Fcy1. The remainder grew in this medium and had wild-type Fcy1; further analysis revealed these to be mutated in the Fcy2L homolog of S. cerevisiae Fcy2 (purine-cytosine transporter). Based on this analysis, we characterized three 5FC-resistant clinical isolates, and mutations were identified in Fur1 and Fcy1. These data provide a framework for understanding 5FC resistance in C. glabrata and potentially in other fungal pathogens.
Aqueous-based synthesis of ruthenium–selenium catalyst for oxygen reduction reaction

Carbon-supported Se/Ru(Se) catalysts of a broad range of composition were synthesized via a reduction procedure in which a mixture of RuCl3, SeO2 and Black Pearl carbon was treated with NaBH4 in basic media at room temperature. Physical characterization of the catalyst was performed by X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and by high resolution transmission electron microscopy. The effect of NaOH addition during the reduction by NaBH4 and the impact of a post-reduction thermal treatment at 500 °C were interrogated. The activity of the catalyst towards the oxygen reduction reaction was studied by the use of a rotating disk electrode. It was found that the half-wave potential for the oxygen reduction reaction was about 0.78 V vs. RHE. The Se-to-Ru ratio and metal loading on carbon were optimized for the oxygen reduction reaction and the optimized catalyst was tested at the cathode of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell. The stability of the Se/Ru(Se) catalyst was evaluated by electrochemical cycling and by leaching the catalyst in 0.5 M H2SO4 at 80 °C.
An uncertainty principle for function fields

Abstract In a recent paper, Granville and Soundararajan (2007) [5] proved an “uncertainty principle” for arithmetic sequences, which limits the extent to which such sequences can be well-distributed in both short intervals and arithmetic progressions. In the present paper we follow the methods of Granville and Soundararajan (2007) [5] and prove that a similar phenomenon holds in F q [ t ] .
Changes in the structure of soybean triglycerides during maturation

Soybeans of the Hawkeye variety were picked at eleven periods from 30 to 111 days after flowering and extracted with chloroform-methanol. The triglyceride fraction of five pickings, selected 35 to 91 days after flowering (when synthesis of lipid was most active), were isolated by silicic acid thin layer chromatography (TLC) and species composition determined using argentation TLC and lipase hydrolysis. The triglyceride content of the total lipid increased from 6.5% at 30 days after flowering to 85% in the mature bean (111 days). The major changes in fatty acid composition of the triglycerides occurred during the first 52 days after flowering. During this period linolenic acid decreased from 34.2% to 11.7%, the percentages of linoleic and oleic acids increased, stearic remained fairly constant and palmitic decreased slightly. Large quantitative changes occurred in the molecular species of the triglycerides of the bean during maturation; some triglycerides containing linolenic acid could not be detected approximately 66 days after flowering. Although changes occurred in the percentage and amount of each triglyceride species, the positional distribution of fatty acids remained virtually unchanged throughout maturation. Linolenic acid was distributed fairly uniformly between the β-position and the α-positions, linoleate favored esterification in the β-position, and oleate the α-positions. Most of the stearic and palmitic acids were esterified in the α-positions. The consistency of the positional arrangement of the fatty acids indicated that the mode of glyceride synthesis was established very early during maturation and molecular species composition was controlled by the fatty acids available for synthesis.
Non-Abelian geometric phase and long-range atomic forces.

Using fully quantal methods, we investigate various manifestations of the geometric phase in bound and free diatom systems. Adiabaticity and degeneracy are not invoked in the discussion.
Interplanetary Dust Particle Shielding Capability of Spacecraft Multilayer Insulation

Definition of interplanetary dust particle hypervelocity impact protection levels provided by spacecraft multilayer insulation/thermal blankets is provided for the first time. Development of a new data-anchored shock-hydrocode-computations-derived ballistic limit equation in the 7–150 km/s hypervelocity impact range for representative two-wall Whipple shields, in which spacecraft multilayer insulation is the bumper material impacted by fused silica dust, is presented. A baseline configuration was adopted for analysis: 0.0176-cm-thick Kapton bumper (monolithic and layered), 2.54 cm standoff, and 0.0762-cm-thick titanium alloy Ti-6Al-4V rear wall. Significant efforts made to verify and validate the computational methodology with hypervelocity impact test data are also described. With a solid Kapton bumper, the critical particle diameter for causing incipient spall in the rear wall, which is chosen to be the failure criterion, is found to be in the ∼650–1100 μm range, with the largest and the smallest size...
Rotational Invariance and Discrete Analyticity in the 2d Dimer Model

We exploit the discrete analytic structure present in the 2d dimer model to rigorously compute the exponents of a class of two point functions in all directions. This is a dimer analogue of the critical 2d Ising spin spin correlation function.
Intermediate Steel-Industry Suppliers in the Pittsburgh Region: A Cluster-Based Analysis of Regional Economic Resilience

The experience of intermediate steel-industry suppliers in the Pittsburgh region offers valuable insight into how traditional industrial clusters can serve as a source of economic resilience in regions like Pittsburgh, where a “signature” industry contracts or relocates. The authors find that intermediate steel-industry suppliers in Pittsburgh remain an important part of the region's economic base, serving as a significant source of export income from national and international markets. Survey results offer a description of the cluster's characteristics. An important subset of firms in this cluster relies on key contacts in the region such as suppliers, partners, and business networks for collaboration on product development or marketing. By recognizing and supporting local linkages of these kinds, policy initiatives can help to strengthen such clusters and contribute to a region's economic resilience.
Stand characteristics of ozone-stressed populations of Pinus jeffreyi (Pinaceae): extent, development, and physiological consequences of visible injury.

The development and physiological consequences of ozone-induced visible injury was investigated in native populations of Jeffrey pine (Pinus jeffreyi) that were exposed to chronic levels of anthropogenic ozone. Stand structure analyses demonstrated that the expression of visible ozone injury symptoms within self-regenerating populations of Jeffrey pine was highly variable. Of the 975 trees surveyed, 90% exhibited some degree of visible injury and 10% were classified as resistant to ozone. Needles of the most sensitive trees developed a chlorotic mottle characteristic of ozone injury 1 year after their initiation and prematurely abscised in their third year (normal needle retention is 5-6 years). Average needle retention was not different between diameter size categories but was the most variable within the smallest size category and the least variable in the largest size category. Gas exchange measurements indicated a negative correlation between photosynthetic rate and needle surface area covered by chlorotic mottle. Chlorophyll fluorescence kinetics of the current-year needles did not differ between symptomatic and asymptomatic trees but did differ between the oldest needles, suggesting an uncontrolled physiological decline in needles about to abscise in sensitive trees. The high degree of variability of ozone-induced visible injury coupled with the reduction of physiological capacity associated with visible injury suggest that mixed conifer forests growing in polluted regions could potentially undergo shifts in community structure if sensitive Jeffrey pine individuals were to experience differential mortality as a result of ozone exposure. Intraspecific variation in ozone sensitivity may potentially lead to increased population tolerance to oxidative air pollutants, but long-term population analyses will be required to address genetic changes in response to ozone stress.
Air pollution abatement and manpower requirements, a regional input-output analysis

Using cost estimates for the control of particulate matter and sulfur dioxide emissions in the state of West Virginia developed in a recent study by William H. Miernyk and J. Sears, this paper examines the impact of meeting federal air pollution abatement standards on manpower requirements in that region. Within a regional input-output framework, the effects of the technological changes and the capital requirements of several abatement alternatives are presented and compared.
Buoyancy Control in the Freshwater Turtle, Pseudemys scripta elegans

Freshwater turtles (Pseudemys scripta elegans) significantly corrected experimental displacements of their specific gravity. By reciprocally changing the volumes of lung air and stored water, they set their buoyancy and maintained their body volume. The cloacal bursae may be the active site for water storage and exchange in this mechanism.
Reduction of 4-androstene-3,17-dione by growing cucumber plants

Abstract 4-[4-14C]Androstene-3,17-dione was applied to the leaves of growing cucumber plants, Cucumis sativus, twice a week. Four weeks after the first
Bradykinin-stimulated release of [3H]arachidonic acid from phospholipids of HSDM1C1 cells: comparison of diacyl phospholipids and plasmalogens as sources of prostaglandin precursors.

Abstract Ethanolamine plasmalogens (1-alk-1′-enyl-2-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamines) of many tissues contain high levels of arachidonate at their 2-position, and in certain tissues have been implicated as possible donors of arachidonate required in the synthesis of prostaglandins and thromboxanes. In the present study, [3H]arachidonate-labeled phospholipids of HSDM1C1 cells, a cell line derived from a mouse fibrosarcoma, were examined to determine the donor of the arachidonic acid released upon bradykinin stimulation of the synthesis of PGE2. HSDM1C1 cells labeled with [3H]arachidonic acid for 24 hr in serum-free medium were used in most of the experiments and had the following distribution of label among the cellular lipids; phosphatidylcholine (33%), phosphatidylinositol (20%), diacyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (15%), ethanolamine plasmalogen (15%), and less polar lipids (16%). Bradykinin treatment stimulated a rapid hydrolysis of [3H]arachidonate from the cellular lipids and conversion of the released acid to PGE2, which was secreted into the medium. The label was released predominantly from phosphatidylinositol and possibly from phosphatidylcholine with no detectable change in the labeling of diacyl- or 1-alk-1′-enyl-2-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine. The ethanolamine plasmalogens, therefore, do not appear to be involved in the stimulated release of arachidonate in the HSDM1C1 cells. Indomethacin blocked the bradykinin-stimulated synthesis of PGE2 and to a lesser degree inhibited the release of [3H]-arachidonate from the cellular lipids into the medium.
Glucitol pathway in human pregnancy

Abstract The glucitol pathway in human pregnancy has been investigated by in vitro and in vivo studies. It has been shown in vitro that (a) the human placenta can transform glucose into glucitol, and to a lesser degree glucitol into fructose, and (b) the human fetal liver is capable of oxidizing glucitol into fructose. Furthermore, it has been found that glucitol concentration is higher in fetal than in maternal plasma at birth and that a significant arteriovenous difference (P
Can fetal renal artery Doppler studies predict postnatal renal function in morphologically abnormal kidneys? A preliminary report.

AbstractPurpose: The diagnosis of multicystic kidney in utero can be made with reasonable reliability with real-time sonography. However, a cystic hydronephrotic kidney may be difficult to distinguish from a multicystic kidney, necessitating postnatal renography. We report our preliminary observations of Doppler waveform variation in normal and cystic fetal kidneys.Materials and Methods: Five consecutive fetuses with a unilateral cystic kidney, and one with a unilateral hydronephrotic duplex kidney and cystic upper moiety were evaluated in utero with color Doppler renal sonography.Results: Doppler signal on serial ultrasound was consistently absent in the ipsilateral cystic kidney, while normal renal artery Doppler waveforms with a systolic and diastolic component were obtained from the contralateral and unaffected moieties. Postnatal renography confirmed nonfunction in all cystic moieties. The hydronephrotic noncystic moiety of the duplex kidney showed a normal Doppler waveform and good function.Conclusi...
The pattern of escape from metastability of a stochastic Ising model

We study further the metastable behavior of Metropolis dynamics for the two-dimensional nearest neighbor ferromagnetic Ising model, with positive and small external field, in the limit as the temperature vanishes (see [NS]). We focus on the typical features of the escape (nucleation) from the (metastable) configuration with all spins −1, to the (stable) configuration with all spins +1. Using the reversibility of the process as the main tool, we prove (for the discrete time version of the model) that the first step of a typical escaping path is the time reverse of a typical time evolution of a shrinking subcritical rectangular droplet, which is one slice smaller than a critical droplet. This subcritical droplet then evolves in a time of order 1 to a critical droplet, which finally grows with features described in [NS].
Y-maze behavior in the mouse after morphine or an enkephalin analog

The effects of morphine and an enkephalin analog on murine Y-maze behavior were examined. Vehicle-treated groups primarily showed an alternation response, entering the least recently visited alley of the maze. Treatment with morphine or the analog caused significantly reduced alternation, i.e., arms were entered with equal probability. Naloxone alone had no significant behavioral effects, but eliminated the behavioral effects of morphine and enkephalin.
Cellular pattern formation: Dictyostelium discoideum as a system for a biochemical approach

Abstract The cellular slime mold Dityostelium discoideum offers a convanient system in which to investigate the biochemical events that underlie the formation of two different cell types during development. Both morphological and biochemical evidence suggest that cyclic AMP plays a key role in the patterning of prestalk and prespore cells in this organism. The antagonistic distribution of adenylate cyclase and phosphodiesterase offers the potential for establishing a gradient of cyclic AMP across the two cell types.
Sensitization of rotation behavior in rats with unilateral 6-hydroxydopamine or kainic acid-induced striatal lesions

Following unilateral 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) lesions of the substantia nigra or unilateral kainic acid (KA) lesions of the striatum rats displayed rotation behavior in response to apomorphine (0.25 mg/kg SC or 1 mg/kg SC for the 6-OHDA- and KA-lesioned rats respectively). Three to five days following the initial apomorphine challenge rats were challenged under identical conditions with the same dose of apomorphine received previously. Both 6-OHDA- and KA-lesioned rats demonstrated a significant increase in the total number of rotations. Following a subsequent challenge with apomorphine, rats showed further increases in the total number of rotations. With the second and the subsequent apomorphine challenges there were significant increases in the maximal number of rotations, a significant decrease in the time of onset of rotation behavior and in some cases an increase in the duration of the rotation behavior. These increases in rotation behavior following repeated challenges with apomorphine indicate a supersensitivity to dopamine receptor agonists distinct from that elicited by lesions and chronic antagonist treatments. Furthermore, the utility of the rotation behavior model for testing the efficacy of dopaminergic agonists might be compromised if repeated challenges in individual animals are employed.
Clinical experience with exenatide in predominantly Asian and Pacific Islander patients with type 2 diabetes.

Exenatide is a new injectable medication for the treatment of hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes. Due to limited information of exenatide use in Asians and Pacific Islanders (API), we retrospectively reviewed API patients’ responses to exenatide treatment and compared the efficacy and safety of treatment to Caucasian patients. A total of 92 patients (70 API, 21 Caucasians, and 1 Hispanic) with type 2 diabetes were treated with exenatide. In all patients, there was a significant decrease in A1c level, BMI, and weight after 6 months of exenatide treatment (A1c from 8.63 ± 1.46 to 8.23 ± 1.46; P = 0.03, BMI from 34.54 ± 7.07 to 32.14 ± 6.41; P < 0.01, and weight from 215.24 ± 52.04 to 202.50 ± 49.90; P < 0.01 at 95% CI, N = 51). However, differences in mean change of A1c level, BMI, and weight between API and Caucasian patients were not observed at 3 and 6 months of treatment. Side effects and discontinuation of exenatide treatment between API and Caucasian patients were similar. In conclusion, exenatide is an effective anti-hyperglycemic agent in API patients with responses similar to that observed for Caucasian patients.
Rheumatoid arthritis and periodontitis - inflammatory and infectious connections. Review of the literature.

An association between oral disease/periodontitis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has been considered since the early 1820s. The early treatment was tooth eradication. Epidemiological studies suggest that the prevalence of RA and periodontitis may be similar and about 5% of the population are aged 50 years or older. RA is considered as an autoimmune disease whereas periodontitis has an infectious etiology with a complex inflammatory response. Both diseases are chronic and may present with bursts of disease activity. Association studies have suggested odds ratios of having RA and periodontitis varying from 1.8:1 (95% CI: 1.0-3.2, NS) to 8:1 (95% CI: 2.9-22.1, p<0.001). Genetic factors are driving the host responses in both RA and periodontitis. Tumor necrosis factor- α , a proinflammatory cytokine, regulates a cascade of inflammatory events in both RA and periodontitis. Porphyromonas gingivalis is a common pathogen in periodontal infection. P. gingivalis has also been identified in synovial fluid. The specific abilities of P. gingivalis to citrullinate host peptides by proteolytic cleavage at Arg-X peptide bonds by arginine gingipains can induce autoimmune responses in RA through development of anticyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies. In addition, P. gingivalis carries heat shock proteins (HSPs) that may also trigger autoimmune responses in subjects with RA. Data suggest that periodontal therapies combined with routine RA treatments further improve RA status. Conclusions: Periodontal infection ( P. gingivalis ) carries a unique risk for development of autoimmune antibodies associated with RA. Patients with RA have either lost many teeth or usually have severe periodontitis. Additional research, both in regards to basic mechanisms as well as clinical studies, are necessary before it can be said that there are causative links between RA and periodontitis. Cross-disciplinary research in well-defined populations should be performed to further enhance knowledge and develop clinical strategies how to coordinate therapy and risk assessments of RA and periodontitis. Keywords: rheumatoid arthritis; periodontitis; bacteria; inflammation; Porphyromonas gingivalis; citrullination; genetics; review (Published: 13 February 2012) Citation: Journal of Oral Microbiology 2012, 4 : 11829 - DOI: 10.3402/jom.v4i0.11829
Maternal and fetal adrenal function following single and repeat courses of antenatal corticosteroids (ACS)

A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL ANDREW ELIMIAN, DAVID GARRY, REINALDO FIGUEROA, ALAN R. SPITZER, VANDY WIENCEK, PAUL OGBURN, J. GERALD OUIRK, State University of New York at Stony Brook, Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Stony Brook, New York OBJECTIVE: No human randomized study has formally compared betamethasone anddexamethasone, thepreferred corticosteroids forantenatal therapy,with regards to their effectiveness in reducing neonatal morbidities and mortality. Our objective was to compare betamethasone with dexamethasone in terms of effectiveness in reducing perinatal morbidities and mortality among preterm infants. STUDY DESIGN: We enrolled 299 women at risk for preterm delivery in a double blind placebo-controlled randomized trial of antenatal betamethasone compared to dexamethasone 8/1/2002-7/31/2004. We excluded women with clinical chorioamnionitis, major fetal structural and chromosomal abnormalities, prior antenatal steroid exposure, and use of betamethasone or dexamethasone for other medical indications. Consenting women were randomly allocated to one of two groups by the Pharmacy using computer generated random numbers. The statistical analysis was performed in accordance of the intention-to-treat principle. Student t test, Chi square and Fisher exact test were used for analysis. A P value of ! .05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the groups with regards to baseline characteristics including maternal age, gestational age (GA) at steroid administration, GA at delivery, birth weight, fetal gender, antibiotic exposure, surfactant therapy, mode of delivery, and histologic chorioamnionitis. The rate of respiratory distress syndrome, neonatal mortality, need for vasopressor, necrotizing enterocolitis, retinopathy of prematurity, patent ductus arteriosus and neonatal sepsis were not significant different between the groups. However the rate of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) was significantly lower in the dexamethasone group compared to the betamethasone group [6/105(5.7%) versus 16/98(16.3%), P=.027] CONCLUSION: Betamethasone and dexamethasone are comparable in reducing the rate of most major neonatal morbidities and mortality in preterm neonates. However dexamethasone appears to be more effective in reducing the rate of IVH.
Soft x-ray image plane holographic microscopy

Image plane holographic microscopy is demonstrated combining coherent illumination from a compact 46.9 nm wavelength laser with Fresnel zone plate optics. The method enables imaging of low absorption samples with high resolution.
Neuroimmune modulation: Signal transduction and catecholamines

Abstract In recent years, much interest has centered on the commonalities and bi-directional interactions between the nervous system and the immune system. This review focuses on mechanisms through which, catecholamines, a class of neuro-endocrine molecules, modulate immune functions. Catecholamines can be immune suppressive and inhibit lymphocyte activation of both T and B cells as well as the generation of immune-mediated anti-tumor responses. Some of these catecholamine-regulated activities appear to be modulated through the second messenger, cyclic AMP, whereas others appear to be catecholamine-dependent but cyclic AMP independent. Further delineation of the interacting ligand-receptor complexes, populations of responding cells and signal transduction mechanisms leading to the activation of specifically involved genes and gene products, will lead to enhanced understanding of the integratory functions of the nervous sytem in immune responses, the biology of stress, the role of stress-associated molecular mechanisms in perturbations of physiological homeostasis and the development of a new biological psychiatry with accompanying rational therapeutic modalities.
Smoothness as a Failure Mode of Bayesian Mixture Models in Brain–Machine Interfaces

Various recursive Bayesian filters based on reach state equations (RSE) have been proposed to convert neural signals into reaching movements in brain-machine interfaces. When the target is known, RSE produce exquisitely smooth trajectories relative to the random walk prior in the basic Kalman filter. More realistically, the target is unknown, and gaze analysis or other side information is expected to provide a discrete set of potential targets. In anticipation of this scenario, various groups have implemented RSE-based mixture (hybrid) models, which define a discrete random variable to represent target identity. While principled, this approach sacrifices the smoothness of RSE with known targets. This paper combines empirical spiking data from primary motor cortex and mathematical analysis to explain this loss in performance. We focus on angular velocity as a meaningful and convenient measure of smoothness. Our results demonstrate that angular velocity in the trajectory is approximately proportional to change in target probability. The constant of proportionality equals the difference in heading between parallel filters from the two most probable targets, suggesting a smoothness benefit to more narrowly spaced targets. Simulation confirms that measures to smooth the data likelihood also improve the smoothness of hybrid trajectories, including increased ensemble size and uniformity in preferred directions. We speculate that closed-loop training or neuronal subset selection could be used to shape the user's tuning curves towards this end.
Entropy changes for steady-state fluctuations

The dissipative steady state far from equilibrium and subject to a slow modulation of external parameters is analyzed. It is shown that the time-integrated energy dissipation consists of three terms. The first of these is irreversible and consists of the time-integrated dissipation of the sequence of exact steady states defined by the externally controlled parameters traversed during the modulation. The second term is reversible and reflects the fact that the dissipation of the time-dependent modulated system, as calculated in a macroscopic way from ensemble averages, is not the same as the dissipation of a sequence of exact steady states. The third term is also reversible and relates to the ensemble dispersion in changes in stored energy during the modulation. If the system has a single degree of freedom and narrow fluctuations, then these fluctuations can be characterized by an effective temperature TN. The third term can then be shown to be equal toTN dS, whereS is the entropy calculated from the distribution function by the usual definition.
Multicultural Development in Human Services Agencies: Challenges and Solutions

Comprehensive multicultural organizational development (MCOD) is increasingly necessary in human services agencies. This article presents results from an exploratory study that identified challenges and solutions to MCOD, against the backdrop of daily realities of agency life. The author conducted interviews with 20 consultants and 20 practitioners experienced in MCOD. Qualitative analysis revealed four challenges--socioeconomic environment, organizational dynamics, conceptualization of the change effort, and consultant competence; and four solutions--collaborative environmental relations, leadership development, assessment and planning, and consultant selection. Results suggest the complexities of MCOD and ways that human services agencies can sustain such efforts.
Age Verification of Winter Flounder in Narragansett Bay

Abstract Between October 1987 and December 1988, 732 winter flounder Pleuronectes americanus, 91–380 mm total length, were collected during biweekly sampling from Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island. Left sagittal otoliths from these fish were embedded in epoxy resin, and transverse sections through the foci were prepared. With hyaline zones considered as annual increments, ages ranged from 1 to 11 for 608 winter flounder; 97% of the fish were younger than age 5. The dorsoventral otolith diameter was determined by linear regression analyses to be the best (r 2 = 0.90) of six “radial” axes for increment measurements. Marginal increment analyses for ages 1–4 showed that the increments, each composed of one opaque and one hyaline zone, are deposited annually, which clearly verified sectioned otolith ages for age-2 and age-3 fish. Opaque edges were prevalent in May, June, and July. Sectioned otoliths from winter flounder can provide clear increments and measurable increment widths through age 11. Two individuals r...
A One‐Sided Rank Test for Multivariate Censored Data

Summary An asymptotically distribution-free test is proposed for testing the equality of two multivariate failure distributions against a particular one-sided alternative based on censored observations. This test may be interpreted as a multivariate one-sided Gehan test. The consistency of the test is established. An illustrative example is given.
Reactor-released radionuclides and fine-grained sediment transport and accumulation patterns in Barnegat Bay, New Jersey and adjacent shelf waters

Anthropogenic radionuclides have been introduced into the Barnegat Bay environment via global fallout from nuclear weapons testing and by low-level discharges from the Oyster Creek Nuclear Generating Station. A significant portion of these radionuclides have been adsorbed to fine-grained particles and consequently provide excellent tracers for fine-sediment transport and accumulation patterns in the Bay and adjacent shelf environment. Fine-grained particles tagged with reactor nuclides are presently accumulating along the landward shore of Barnegat Bay at rates between I and 7 cm year−1. There is some indication that reactor-tagged sediments are also being transported into the mouths of small tributaries which discharge into the Bay. Reactor-tagged particles that escape from the Bay, through Barnegat Inlet, onto the shelf, are accumulating during the summer with fine-grained material from other sources, in depressions along the shelf bottom. These near-shore mud deposits are apparently resuspended and dispersed by major storms probably on a seasonal basis. By comparing radionuclide ratios in the reactor releases with the ratios observed in the fine-grained sediments in the vicinity of the reactor, it appears that (I) 35% to 50% of the total 137Cs activity in the top 30 cm of the sediments in Oyster Creek is attributable to reactor releases, (2) if transuranic releases have occurred from the Oyster Creek Reactor, the increments of 239,240Pu and 238Pu are not distinguishable from the fallout plutonium burden in the sediments and (3) radiocobalt is removed from the liquid effluent and stored in the sediments at least 20× more effectively than radiocesium. A budget of 60Co, based on inputs from the reactor, storage in the Bay sediments, and outputs through Barnegat Inlet on particles and in the dissolved phase, indicates that 40% of the 60Co released by the Oyster Creek reactor resides in the sediments of Barnegat Bay. The accumulation and dispersal patterns of reactive activation products such as 60Co released during routine nuclear reactor operations provide important clues to the probable transport pathways of a wide variety of pollutants including transuranic nuclides if significant releases of such materials were to occur.
Synthesis of [2S-2-2H]- and [2R-2-2H]hexadecanoic acids

Abstract [2S-2-2H]- and [2R-2-2H]hexadecanoic acids were synthesized in overall yields of 59–67%. Methyl(2R)-2-hydroxyhexadecanoate, from the acid produced by Hansenula sydowiorum, was converted to the p-toluenesulphonate, reduced to trideutero alcohol with lithium aluminium deuteride and oxidized to [2S-2-2H]hexadecanoic acid. Methyl (2S)-2-chlorohexadecanoate, which was a by-product of tosylation and was also prepared by chlorinatioon of the hydroxy ester with thionyl chloride, on reduction and oxidation as before gave [2R-2-2H]-hexadecanoic acid. Intermediates were fully characterized, isotopic purity was 97% and optical purity was maintained throughout the syntheses. Attempts to reduce the tosyl or chloro groups, only, with sodium borodeuteride gave low yields probably due to preferential reduction of the ester group; 1,2-epoxyhexadecane was obtained from the tosylate and 2-chlorohexadecan-1-ol from the chloro ester.
CARBON AND NITROGEN NUTRITION OF SCLEROTIUM CEPIVORUM

SUMMARY Several monosaccharides (glucose, galactose, mannose, fructose), diand trisaccharides (cellobiose, sucrose, raffinose, maltose), and polysachcharides (inulin, starch, dextrin, glycogen) were excellent carbon sources for growth and production of sclerotia of Sclerotium cepivorum. Inulin and soluble starch were exceptionally good sources of carbon for production of sclerotia by several isolates of the fungus. Pectic substances, gluconic acid, and sorbitol were utilized slightly for growth. Several carbohydrate derivatives and Krebs cycle intermediates were not utilized. Casein hydrolysate, vitamin-free casamino acids, NaNO3, NH4CI, the amino acids isoleucine, arginine, proline, aspartic acid, leucine, and the amides asparagine and glutamine were the best nitrogen sources for growth. Valine, lysine, serine, glycine, histidine, and threonine were not utilized for growth. Proline, arginine, histidine, casein hydrolysate, and glutamine were the only nitrogen sources that allowed production of sclerotia by all isolates tested. Optimum temperature range for growth of S. cepivorum was 15-20 C, and the fungus grew better at 10 than at 25 C. The optimum concentration of carbon/liter from glucose depended on the isolate used. For one isolate, growth increased linearly with an increase of glucose carbon from 0 to 20.0 g/liter. Two g of nitrogen/liter from L-proline or NaNO3 was the optimum concentration for growth. High concentrations of L-proline in the medium (more than 0.25 g nitrogen/liter) supported excellent production of sclerotia by three isolates.
Synchronized maturation and breeding in natural populations of Xiphophorus variatus (Poeciliidae)

Reproductive events tend to be synchronized in natural populations of Xiphophorus variatus. Males physically resembling one another tend to mature at the same rate and time. This coordinate development has also been seen in the laboratory. We hypothesize that juveniles resembling each other experience fewer aggressive responses from males than do juveniles without ‘look-alikes’, because of habituation of aggression. This would decrease social inhibition and permit their synchronous development.