cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition on pituitary hormone responses to insulin-induced hypoglycemia in humans.

Renin, angiotensin-II, and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) have been found in the hypothalamus and pituitary in rats, and renin, angiotensinogen, and ACE have been found in human pituitary lactotrophs. To determine the physiological relevance of the renin-angiotensin system in the pituitary hormone response to stress in humans, we created significant inhibition of ACE by administering a clinically used dose (10 mg) of enalapril (E) 4 h before measuring the stress hormone responses to insulin-induced hypoglycemia. Eight fasting lean healthy males (aged 20-35 yr) were given either placebo (P) or E (10 mg, orally) in two studies separated by at least 5 days in a blinded study design. Glucose, ACTH, cortisol, PRL, and GH levels were measured before E or P and at 20-min intervals beginning 20 min before insulin administration. ACE levels were similar at baseline (E, 21.6 ± 2.7; P, 22.4 ± 2.4 mU/mL/min), but were significantly lower at the time of insulin injection with E treatment (E, 2.9 ± 0 5; P, 20.9 ± ...
Results of pouch surgery after ileo-anal anastomosis: the implications of pouchitis.

The ileal pouch-anal operation is the procedure of choice for those suitable patients requiring surgery for chronic ulcerative colitis or familial adenomatous polyposis. The functional results are generally good but pouchitis remains a significant and poorly understood complication. This review encompasses factors relating to pouchitis, e.g., bacteriological, functional and histological changes, with emphasis on its biology and treatment, and the long-term implications.
A 250MHz-to-4GHz Δ-Σ fractional-N frequency synthesizer with adjustable duty cycle

A Δ-Σ fractional-N Phase-locked Loops (PLL)- based frequency synthesizer (FS) with a frequency range of 250 MHz to 4 GHz is presented. By employing the Δ-Σ fractional-N technique and utilizing the multi-phase clocks available in the ring-VCO of the PLL, the frequency synthesizer is capable of generating high-resolution and low-spur clocks with instant frequency switching. Moreover, the proposed FS has the ability to adjust clock duty cycle which is needed in applications such as time-interleaved ADCs, switched-capacitor circuits, and DC-DC converters.
Rabi oscillations in semiconductor multiwave mixing response

We studied the semiconductor response with respect to high intensity resonant excitation on short-time scale when the contribution of the Fermi statistics of the electrons and holes prevails. We studied both the single- and double-pulse excitations. For the latter case we considered the time evolution of the multiwave mixing exciton polarization. The main difference between the excitation by a single pulse or by two noncollinear pulses is that the Rabi oscillations of the multiwave mixing response are characterized by two harmonics. Analyzing the operator dynamics governed by the external excitation we found that there are three invariant spin classes, which do not mix with the evolution of the system. Two classes correspond to the bright exciton states and one contains all dark states. We found that the dynamics of the classes are described by six frequencies and the Rabi frequencies are only two of them (one for each bright class). We discuss the effect of the dispersion of the electrons and holes and the Coulomb interaction describing the semiconductor by the semiconductor Bloch equation (SBE). We show that if initially the system is in the ground state then the SBE preserves the invariant spin classes, thus proving the absence of the dark excitons in the framework of this description. We found that due to the mass difference between holes of different kind additional Rabi frequencies, two of those present in the operator dynamics should appear in the evolution of the exciton polarization.
Ultrafiltration Versus Diuretics in Congestive Heart Failure

Acute decompensated heart failure often coexists with renal failure, and together they increase in-hospital mortality. Sometimes either condition arises because of the decompensation of chronic kidney disease or chronic heart failure. High-dose diuretics along with vasodilators and other medications are the standard first-line therapy but are sometimes ineffective because of the development of diuretic resistance or acute kidney injury. Fluid can be removed with different forms of dialytic techniques, but controversy exists about how and when to perform these procedures. This article explores the risks and benefits of technological approaches and the existing evidence for the best course of action.
Origin of the Enhanced Interaction of Molecular Hydrogen with Extraframework Cu+ and FeO+ Cations in Zeolite Hosts. A Periodic DFT Study

The interactions of hydrogen molecules with Cu+ and FeO+ extraframework cations in chabazite were studied using periodic DFT (B3LYP) calculations. Dispersion forces were accounted for by adding Grimme’s correction to the DFT energy at the B3LYP-optimized geometries. Two potential binding sites are found for FeO+ cations inside chabazite as for Cu+. The preferred site I is located in the middle of the six-membered ring, where FeO+ coordinates to three oxygen atoms of the zeolite framework, while in the less stable site IV FeO+ coordinates to two oxygen atoms of the eight-membered ring (ΔE = 17.3 kJ mol−1). The interaction of H2 with FeO+ (Eads = −17.5 kJ mol−1) is weaker than that with Cu+ (Eads = −85 kJ mol−1), so that binding is only favorable at the more open site IV, where no framework reorganization is needed. For both CuCHA and FeOCHA, the geometry of the adsorbed H2−M+ complex is governed by M d → H2 σ* back-donation, which also contributes to a large extent to the final adsorption energy and contro...
Reproduction in same sex couples: quality of parenting and child development.

Purpose of review Same sex couples are steadily becoming more open about their relationships. One consequence of this growing openness is that more couples of the same sex are choosing to have children and infertility treatment centers are increasingly faced with requests for assistance in creating these families. The aim of this review is to address new trends in reproduction in same sex couples, to consider the quality of parenting in lesbian mother and gay father households, and to review the literature on the development of children raised by same sex couples. Recent findings The current literature on these families is limited by small sample sizes and a predominance of studies of lesbian mothers and their children, with few studies of gay fathers and their children. A recent study of adolescents living with same sex parents recruited from a large national sample supports the notion that adolescents raised by same sex couples are doing well psychologically and are not more likely to be homosexual. The authors concluded that it was the quality of parenting, not parental sexual orientation that accounted for developmental differences. Summary The literature supports the notion that children of lesbian mothers and gay fathers are not more likely to become homosexual and are not measurably different from children raised by heterosexual parents in terms of personality development, psychological development, and gender identity. Larger longitudinal studies of same sex parents, particularly gay men, are needed, including those who choose to become parents through the use of assisted reproduction.
Fetal open Spina bifida: a natural history of disease progression in utero

Objective To determine the natural history of the prenatal development of ventriculomegaly and talipes in fetuses with open spina bifida. Study design All fetuses with isolated open spina bifida and managed at our center between January 1996 and March 2000 were retrospectively evaluated. Ultrasonographic images and reports were reviewed from examinations performed every 3 to 4 weeks from the time of diagnosis to delivery for lesion level and type, ventriculomegaly (defined as an atrial width of ≥10 mm), and lower extremity appearance. Results Of the 53 pregnancies identified, 20 (38%) were electively terminated. In the 33 ongoing gestations, the lesions ranged from lower thoracic to sacral; 79% were characterized as meningomyeloceles and 21% as myeloschises. Fifty-five percent (n = 18) had ventriculomegaly at diagnosis (early onset, mean gestational age at diagnosis 22 ± 5 weeks), 33% (n = 11) subsequently developed ventriculomegaly (late onset, mean 29 ± 6 weeks), and 12% (n = 4) had normal ventricle size at the last sonogram before birth (mean 38 ± 1 weeks). The ventricular size prior to delivery was significantly smaller with late-onset ventriculomegaly than with early-onset: 15 ± 4 mm versus 28 ± 10 mm, (p = 0.001). Only 6% (n = 2) had talipes at the initial sonogram, and 18% (n = 6) were subsequently determined to have talipes (mean 30 ± 6 weeks). Conclusion Most fetuses with open spina bifida develop ventriculomegaly, and the majority do so by 21 weeks' gestation. Fetuses that develop ventriculomegaly later in gestation have less severe ventricular dilation at birth. In contrast, a minority of fetuses have congenital talipes, and because most cases develop after 20 weeks, they are not predicted by early midtrimester sonographic evaluation. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimental Measurement of Monovalent Cation Adsorption onto Bacillus subtilis Cells

Typically, the effects of ionic strength on metal adsorption to geosorbents are accounted for by models of the surface electric field, assuming a planar surface. However, bacterial cell walls are not two-dimensional surfaces. Furthermore, electric field model parameters for complex systems are difficult to determine and apply. We propose an alternative approach to electric field models of ionic strength effects by explicitly accounting for monovalent cation adsorption onto specific bacterial binding sites. We calculate stability constants for monovalent metal-bacterial surface complexes, and use them to determine the magnitude of correction needed for a previously determined stability constant for a Cd-bacterial surface complex.
ICP10PK inhibits calpain-dependent release of apoptosis-inducing factor and programmed cell death in response to the toxin MPP+.

Apoptosis is a widely accepted component of the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD), a debilitating neurodegenerative disorder characterized by loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. However, additional death programs were implicated, and current understanding of the cycle of intracellular events that leads to the demise of these neuronJis limited. Gene therapy strategies were proposed to inhibit apoptosis, but they have met with relatively limited success. Here we report that the antiapoptotic herpes simplex virus type 2 gene ICP10PK protects neuronally differentiated PC12 cells from death caused by 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (in vitro PD model) through inhibition of calpain I activation and the resulting inhibition of Bax translocation to the mitochondria, apoptosis-inducing factor release and caspase-3 activation. Neuroprotection is through ICP10PK-mediated activation of the PI3-K/Akt survival pathway and upregulation/stabilization of the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 and the cytoprotective chaperone heat-shock protein 70.
Nanorheology of viscoelastic shells: applications to viral capsids.

We study the microrheology of nanoparticle shells [A. D. Dinsmore et al., Science 298, 1006 (2002)] and viral capsids [I. L. Ivanovska et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 101, 7600 (2004)] by computing the mechanical response function and thermal fluctuation spectrum of a viscoelastic spherical shell that is permeable to the surrounding solvent. We determine analytically the damped dynamics of bend and compression modes of the shell coupled to the solvent both inside and outside the sphere in the zero Reynolds number limit. We identify fundamental length and time scales in the system, and compute the thermal correlation function of displacements of antipodal points on the sphere and the mechanical response to pinching forces applied at these points. We describe how such a frequency-dependent antipodal correlation and/or response function, which should be measurable in new AFM-based microrheology experiments, can probe the viscoelasticity of these synthetic and biological shells constructed of nanoparticles.
Numerical modeling of the energy storage and release in solar flares.

This paper reports on investigation of the photospheric magnetic field-line footpoint motion (usually referred to as shear motion) and magnetic flux emerging from below the surface in relation to energy storage in a solar flare. These causality relationships are demonstrated by using numerical magnetohydrodynamic simulations. From these results, one may conclude that the energy stored in solar flares is in the form of currents. The dynamic process through which these currents reach a critical value is discussed as well as how these currents lead to energy release, such as the explosive events of solar flares.
Morbid Risk to First Degree Relatives of Neuropathologically Confirmed Cases of Alzheimer's Disease

One source of variance in familial aggregation studies in Alzheimer''s disease (AD) is proband diagnosis. In this study, the morbid risk of primary progressive dementia (PPD) was assessed in first degree relatives of 32 patients with clinically diagnosed AD (mean onset = 59.9 ± 7.2 years) whose diagnoses were confirmed at autopsy. The Alzheimer''s Disease Risk Questionnaire and the Dementia Questionnaire were administered to multiple family informants by trained raters blind to the probands'' clinical and neuropathologic diagnoses. Morbid risk for PPD was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier life-table method. The estimated cumulative risk of PPD in first degree relatives (n = 159; age ≧: 45) was estimated to be 48.8 ± 11.3% by age 86. The risk estimate for affected siblings (n = 96; age ≧ 45) reached 54.9 ± 20.7 % by age 78. These figures are consistent with those calculated for most cohorts of relatives of clinically selected AD probands lacking autopsy confirmation of diagnosis. Although based on a relatively small sample, this series is the first morbid risk analysis to employ clinically diagnosed probands with neuropathologic confirmation of AD.
Influence of Modified Starches on the Stability of Beef Jerky Analogs During Storage

Textural stabilization of extruded beef jerky analogs (BJA) by using modified starches was studied. From a series of modified starches stodied, Frigex W and Instant Pure Flo were identified to show very reduced retrogra dation, both in gels and after extrusion. These starches were used as textural stabilizers for BJA, an extruded product obtained from potato granules and ground beef. The partial substitution of potato granules with modified starches, at a level of 5% of the formulation, led to increased moisture sorption capacity of the analogs. After a storage period of 1 mo, the samples that contained modified starch had a degree of swelling with 30% higher and much lower elastic modulus as compared to those that contained only potato starch. Le jerky de boeuf est une preparation a base de pomme de terre deshydratee et de viande de boeuf hache. Cette etude evalue l'effet de l'incorporation d'amidons acetyles et propylenoxydes sur la stabilite d'analogues de jerky de boeuf. L'hypothese de cette etude est reliee a la prevention de la retrogradation de la phase d'amidon par le remplacement partiel de pomme de terre par des amidons modifies.
Optimizing the hydrostatic properties of 1-3 piezocomposites

An improved micromechanical model has been developed to predict the hydrostatic response of 1 - 3 piezocomposites. The influence of matrix stiffness, interlayer stiffness, rod aspect ratio, and rod volume fraction on the load transfer and the effective hydrostatic piezoelectric voltage coefficient was investigated. Model predictions treat the ceramic rods as transversely isotropic and relax plane strain assumptions by integrating over the non-uniform strains in the rod and matrix. Results of the current model are compared with predictions from a plane strain model. Optimal interlayer and matrix properties for maximum sensitivity are discussed.
Learning about the Safety of Drugs — A Half-Century of Evolution

Fifty years ago, a constellation of events transformed the way we think about drug safety. Key among them: the actions of Frances Kelsey at the FDA, who kept thalidomide off the U.S. market, sparing Americans an epidemic of limb-reduction birth defects.
Preliminary Results of Aperture-Area Comparison for Exo-Atmospheric Solar Irradiance

Exo-atmospheric solar irradiance measurements made by the solar irradiance community over the past 25 years incorporated limiting apertures measured by a number of metrology laboratories using a variety of techniques. Knowledge of the aperture area is a critical component in the conversion of radiant flux measurements to solar irradiance. An Earth Observing System (EOS)-sponsored international comparison of aperture area measurements of limiting apertures provided by solar irradiance researchers is under way, the effort being executed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in coordination with the EOS Project Science Office. Apertures that have institutional heritage with historical solar irradiance measurements are measured using the absolute aperture measurement facility at NIST. The measurement technique employs non-contact video microscopy using a high-precision stage. The aperture area comparison aims to quantify the relative differences between the participating institutions' aperture area measurements. Preliminary results of the comparison will be reported.
Host defenses against pathogenic fungi

Host resistance against the pathogenic fungi is generally not the contribution of a single type of defense, but raLher is the result of a complex series of interactions of several defensive measures mediated by multiple populations' of cells and soluble factors. Because investigators have focused most attention on host defenses against systemic mycotic pathogens, this review will be limited to that group of organisms. For convenience in discussion, host resistance against the mycotic agents will be separated into two components (Table 1). First will be natural or innate mechanisms that are immediately functional upon initial exposure to the fungal pathogen. Second will be acquired immune resistance mechanisms which appear after adequate exposure to the organism. inhalation of the appropriate infectious particles, then it follows that natural defenses associated with the respiratory tract are the first encountered by the organisms. The mechanical and chemical barriers associated with the upper respiratory tract play a significant role in preventing entrance of the majority of the organisms encountered. If the organisms make their way past such initial barriers, then natural cellular defense begins. Until a few years ago, the cells considered to be responsible for eliminating fungi and other microbial pathogens, were the active phagocytic leukocytes, ie, polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNL) (23) and monocytes or macrophages (23, 31). More recently, a third group of cells has begun to attract attention as potential players in first-line cellular defense against fungal agents (24, 39). This group of nonphagocytic large granular lymphocytes include natural killer (NK) ceils and other natural cytotoxic cells (for reviews see, 20, 21).
Electrochemical transport of organic ions through Polyvinylchloride

Abstract Thin (5–15 μm) Polyvinylchloride membranes were cast from THF or cyclohexanone and characterized by infrared spectroscopy, micrometry and differential scanning calorimetry. The membranes were used in a diffusion cell whose donor compartment contained an organic salt and an electrode. The receptor compartment was a specially adapted UV cuvette used to measure, in situ, the amount of the organic ion that was transported electrochemically. This cuvette usually held aqueous 0.1 M sodium chloride and a second electrode. Using 4.0 M NaSal, the cathode in the donor compartment, and constant current pulses, which were typically 50 seconds in duration, the ionic flux was directly proportional to the current (0.1–0.5 mA). The efficiency (molecules Sal − /election) was 22%. There was no Sal − flux when no current was passed or when the direction of current flow was reversed. The cations dimethyldopaminium and methyl viologen were similarly transported when the anode was in the donor compartment. Current/voltage curves were recorded. When voltages of the magnitude used for the transport experiment (30 V) were applied, the membrane resistance was substantially lower than at low applied voltages. Measurement of efficiency and membrane resistance were made when plasticizers and salts (Me 4 NSal, LiClO 4 ) were added to the films, when the thickness and area of the film were changed and when solution compositions and concentrations were changed. It was determined that the membranes were weakly selective, and that the selectivity and resistance were not dependent, or very weakly dependent, on additives to the membrane. Sal − salts added to the membrane were not iontophoresed out. Comparison to a transport model from the literature is made.
A taste for development.

The final component of our model holds that once sensory fibers have found their targets, taste buds then differentiate and synaptic contacts form. At this point, taste buds become dependent upon nerves for maintenance, at least in mammals and some amphibians, as has been demonstrated many times. In addition, it is at this phase of development that differences between mammals and amphibians may become apparent. Specifically, while induction of mammalian taste bud precursor cells may be independent of innervation as discussed above, nerves may be required for initial cytodifferentiation of mammalian taste buds; such nerve contact is not necessary for induction or differentiation of amphibian taste buds. However, as we have discussed elsewhere, current published data are insufficient to settle this issue (Barlow and Northcutt 1998xBarlow, L.A and Northcutt, R.G. Trends Neurosci. 1998; 21: 338Abstract | Full Text | Full Text PDFSee all ReferencesBarlow and Northcutt 1998).In sum, the predominant model of embryonic development of taste buds has been one of neural induction; late in embryogenesis, ingrowing nerve fibers were envisioned to induce the differentiation of taste buds within the epithelium. However, recent studies have demonstrated that taste bud induction likely is independent of innervation. Instead, the ability of the oropharyngeal epithelium to generate taste buds is an intrinsic feature of this tissue, a feature that is acquired very early in embryonic development. These new findings have forced a reassessment of the traditional view of taste bud genesis, as well as construction of a new “nerve-independent” model of early taste bud development.*E-mail: lbarlow@du.edu.
Energy balance analysis of nighttime leaf temperatures and frost formation in a subalpine environment

Abstract Nocturnal leaf temperatures depend primarily on convective heat exchange with the air and longwave radiation exchange with the surroundings. Consequently, the leaf boundary layer and upper hemisphere infrared radiation dominate the energy balance of a leaf. Longwave radiation from the night sky may be particularly low in the subalpine environment because of the decreased atmospheric density, as well as the low moisture content of the atmosphere. The sky infrared radiation input during the growing season was often as low as 230 W m−2 in the subalpine, equating to a blackbody equivalent sky temperature of less than −20°C. Leaf temperatures predicted from energy balance equations were compared with field measurements of leaf temperatures for Erigeron peregrinus, a perennial herb common to subalpine meadows with a characteristic leaf dimension of approximately 2 cm. Differences between predicted and measured temperatures generated a root-mean-square error of 0.9°C, while the root-mean-square deviation between the air and leaf temperature observations was 3.9°C (n = 461). Leaf temperatures were modelled in simulations addressing the effects of ambient air temperature, wind speed, sky infrared radiation, and sky exposure characteristic of this high elevation environment. Leaf temperature responses to air temperature and sky infrared radiation were linear, while the sensitivity of the leaf temperature response to wind speed increased substantially under calm conditions (less than 0.4 m s−1). Low wind in combination with clear, cold nights generated simulated leaf temperature depressions of over 6°C below air temperature, frequently resulting in frost episodes during the entire growing season.
Systematic investigation of two-pion correlations at the AGS

Abstract We summarize recent HBT results from the Henry Higgins and Forward Spectrometers of BNL E866. These measurements are for pions of both signs in the mid- and forward-rapidity regions, 1.2 Y k T Source radii are fit using Bertsch-Pratt and Yano-Koonin parameterizations. The transverse momentum dependences imply transverse expansion in all systems. The radii scaling with centrality is consistent with both geometric and freeze-out interpretations. Comparisons to geometric overlap of the projectile-target system also give evidence for expansion. Emission durations are in the range, 2–4 fm/c, and for the first time show a linear correlation with geometric size.
Using verified control envelopes for safe controller design

This paper concerns the use of formal methods to design controllers for dynamic systems such that the closed-loop system satisfies given safety specifications. The usual approach to using formal methods for control applications is to verify safety for an abstraction of the closed-loop system using a candidate controller. We propose an alternative approach. The formal method is applied first to verify the safety of an entire class of possible controllers characterized by a nondeterministic input-output mapping call a control envelope. Safety of candidate controllers can then be verified by showing they are a refinement of the control envelope over an invariant set, rather than verifying the entire closed-loop system. Alternatively, the control envelope can be incorporated as an additional set of constraints directly in the controller synthesis procedure. Furthermore, this approach allows the designer to evaluate parameter trade-offs. Checking that the control envelope is satisfied is a static check on the input-output relation of the controller, rather than a dynamic check of closed-loop properties. The method is developed using differential dynamic logic (dL) and the associated theorem prover KeYMaera as the formal method and illustrated for an example of designing a safe strategy for an automotive cooperative intersection collision avoidance system for stop-sign assist (CICAS-SSA).
On exact stationary solutions of stochastically perturbed Hamiltonian systems

Exact stationary solutions are obtained for Hamiltonian systems with linear or nonlinear damping and subject to external or parametric excitations of Gaussian white-noises. Sufficient conditions for the existence and uniqueness of the solutions are given. It is shown that some exact stationary solutions published recently of nonlinear multi-degree-of-freedom stochastic systems are particular cases of the present results.
A comparison of the effects of pentobarbital and diphenylhydantoin on the GABA sensitivity and excitability of adult sensory ganglion cells.

Summary The actions of pentobarbital (PB) and diphenylhydantoin (DPH) have been studied on neurons of dorsal root ganglia from adult rats. At anesthetic levels (i.e. 1–2 × 10 −4 M), PB greatly enhanced neuronal responses to γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA); at 10 −3 M PB caused a small depolarization and profoundly attenuated GABA responses, probably because of cross-desensitization of GABA receptors. In contrast to results in some non-mammalian species, DPH (up to 2 × 10 −4 M) did not affect GABA responses under any conditions. PB depressed single intracellularly evoked action potentials only at high concentrations, but the cell's ability to fire trains of impulses in response to prolonged depolarization was impaired (i.e. accomodation was enhanced) at the anesthetic dosage level. DPH (1–2 × 10 −4 M) selectively depressed sodium-dependent action potentials of tetrodotoxin (TTX)-sensitive cells, and also impaired their ability to fire repetitively, but it did not influence sodium conductances and other aspects of excitability of TTX-insensitive neurons. In addition, both DPH and TTX reversed neuronal depolarizations induced by veratridine. Calcium-dependent potentials appeared to be unaltered by DPH. The results suggest that the anesthetic properties of PB may depend, in part, upon the enhancement of GABA-mediated inhibitions and increased accomodation. The anticonvulsant DPH exerts a selective, TTX-like depression of sodium conductances which does not extend to sodium conductances which are insensitive to TTX.
Culture of rabbit embryo in circulating medium.

OTHER reports from this laboratory have described the growth of late preimplantation to postimplantation stage rabbit embryos in vitro, in open culture dishes containing static medium1,2, and in large volumes of media with continuous bubbling of gases3. (Various types of roller tube cultures have also been attempted, but results have not been encouraging.) This article reports the stage of growth achieved when rabbit embryos are cultured in recirculating medium using a modification of the system designed by New4 for postimplantation rodent embryos. The earliest stages that have been successfully grown by this method are the 8-day post coitum hamster5 and 7.5 day post coitum rat embryos6. In these cases, the embryos at explantation were at the egg-cylinder to late pre-somite stages. In the work reported here using the rabbit, embryos were explanted 6 days and 18 h post coitum (at least 6 h before implantation) while still at early or preprimitive streak stages.
Performance analysis of burst admission-control protocols

The paper investigates the performance of two simple burst admission-control protocols for ATM networks. In the first approach, called 'tell-and-go', the source transmits its messages immediately in the form of bursts as soon as it receives the message from its application layer. In the second approach, called 'tell-and-wait', the source first reserves the bandwidth along the virtual circuit using a short 'request' message. The burst is transmitted only after the requested bandwidth has been allotted. The analysis, which is based on reduced load approximation, provides the performance comparisons between the two protocols with respect to the propagation delay, burst size and peak bit rate.
Forced Hot-Air Quarantine Treatment for Grapefruit Infested with Mexican Fruit Fly (Diptera: Tephritidae)

Grapefruit, Citrus paradise (MacFadyen), were infested artificially with late third instars of Mexican fruit fly, Anastrepha ludens (Loew), and treated with forced hot air until the fruit-center temperatures were 48°C. Artificially infested fruit heated more slowly than uninfested fruit. The forced hot-air treatment used an incremental air-temperature increase, with humidity controlled to maintain a dew point that was 2°C lower than the fruit surface temperature. This procedure prevented fruit damage resulting from scald by condensation and by desiccation. In total, 102,037 larvae in 2,488 fruit were killed, thus exceeding probit-9 mortality (99.9968%) requirements. The treatment did not affect significantly fruit appearance or flavor quality ratings, although ratings for flavor and overall preference were lower for treated late-season, commercially stored fruit.
Exact solutions of n-coupled harmonic oscillators related to Sp(2n, R) Lie algebra

Exact solutions of n-coupled harmonic oscillators related to the Sp(2n,R) Lie algebra are derived using an algebraic method. It is found that the energy spectrum of the system is determined by one-boson excitation energies built on a vector coherent state of Sp(2n,R)⊃U(n).
Thallus: The Samaritan?

In the extant writings of certain of the Church Fathers there are some interesting references to a man named Thallus. At the present time, beyond what can be inferred from these early Christian references, nothing is certainly known about him. In recent years, however, attempts have been made to fix the identity of this Thallus. Because of its potential significance for the early history of the gospel tradition, one of these attempts has become rather popular. Much of the acclaim over this suggested identification would seem to be based on a confusion between what has recently been said about Thallus and what is actually known about him from the early Christian references. Consequently, numerous errors of fact and fancy have arisen. It is the purpose of this paper to investigate, first, what is actually known about the Thallus referred to by the Church Fathers, and second, the validity of the identification currently proposed.
Measurement of sepsis in the burn patient

Septicemia is the 13th leading cause of death in the United States and its annual cost is estimated between $5-10 billion [2]. Much attention has been focused oil gramnegative septicemia and on endotoxemia in surgical patients over recent years and a variety of therapeutic modalities have been attempted [1, 6, 8, 13]. Polymyxin B, a cationic polypeptide with anti-endotoxin effects has been used as an anti-endotoxin agent for a considerable amount of time [9] and was recently confirmed to be of value as an extracorporeal fiber filter [3] that offered improved survival in thermally injured mice [5].
Monocyte transmigration induced by modification of low density lipoprotein in cocultures of human aortic wall cells is due to induction of monocyte chemotactic protein 1 synthesis and is abolished by high density lipoprotein

Incubation of cocultures of human aortic endothelial (HAEC) and smooth muscle cells (HASMC) with LDL in the presence of 5-10% human serum resulted in a 7.2-fold induction of mRNA for monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1), a 2.5-fold increase in the levels of MCP-1 protein in the coculture supernatants, and a 7.1-fold increase in the transmigration of monocytes into the subendothelial space of the cocultures. Monocyte migration was inhibited by 91% by antibody to MCP-1. Media collected from the cocultures that had been incubated with LDL induced target endothelial cells (EC) to bind monocyte but not neutrophil-like cells. Media collected from cocultures that had been incubated with LDL-induced monocyte migration into the subendothelial space of other cocultures that had not been exposed to LDL. In contrast, media from separate cultures of EC or smooth muscle cells (SMC) containing equal number of EC or SMC compared to coculture and incubated with the same LDL did not induce monocyte migration when incubated with the target cocultures. High density lipoprotein HDL, when presented to cocultures together with LDL, reduced the increased monocyte transmigration by 91%. Virtually all of the HDL-mediated inhibition was accounted for by the HDL2 subfraction. HDL3 was essentially without effect. Apolipoprotein AI was also ineffective in preventing monocyte transmigration while phosphatidylcholine liposomes were as effective as HDL2 suggesting that lipid components of HDL2 may have been responsible for its action. Preincubating LDL with beta-carotene or with alpha-tocopherol did not reduce monocyte migration. However, pretreatment of LDL with probucol or pretreatment of the cocultures with probucol, beta-carotene, or alpha-tocopherol before the addition of LDL prevented the LDL-induced monocyte transmigration. Addition of HDL or probucol to LDL after the exposure to cocultures did not prevent the modified LDL from inducing monocyte transmigration in fresh cocultures. We conclude that cocultures of human aortic cells can modify LDL even in the presence of serum, resulting in the induction of MCP-1, and that HDL and antioxidants prevent the LDL induced monocyte transmigration.
Ablaut reduplication in English: the criss­crossing of prosody and verbal art

The two properties that characterize Ablaut reduplication in English (chit-chat, dilly-dally) are: (1) identical vowel quantity in the stressed syllabic peaks, (2) maximally distinct vowel qualities in the two halves, with [i] appearing most commonly to the left and a low vowel to the right. In addition, Ablaut reduplicatives are described as having a trochaic contour, yet there is a great deal of uncertainty regarding the stress on the second part of the formation. Historically, Ablaut reduplication appeared long after Copy reduplication (boo-boo, yo-yo) and flourished during the Renaissance; its productivity declined sharply in the twentieth century.This article treats Ablaut reduplicatives as verbal art products, analogs of dipodic poetic meter. The naturalness of the template ensues from the interaction of conflicting segmental and prosodic constraints on identity and markedness. An independently established hierarchy blocks high back vowels from appearing in these forms. The height difference is a response to the principle of INTEREST which favors maximum perceptual differentiation between the stressed vowels. The linear ordering of the vowels correlates with domain-final lengthening. The ambiguity between compound stress and level stress that these words exhibit is related tentatively to the existence of a separate prosodic domain, a dipodic colon. The article provides Optimality-theoretic support for the analytical relevance of gradient phonetic properties and the relevance of the colon as a separate prosodic layer, and potentially enriches the taxonomy of metrical forms in English.
Maternal exposure to diethylstilbestrol during pregnancy and increased breast cancer risk in daughters

The idea that susceptibility to breast cancer is determined not only through inherited germline mutations but also by epigenetic changes induced by alterations in hormonal environment during fetal development is gaining increasing support. Using findings obtained in human and animal studies, this review addresses the mechanisms that may explain why daughters of mothers who took synthetic estrogen diethylstilbestrol (DES) during pregnancy have two times higher breast cancer risk than women who were not exposed to it. The mechanisms likely involve epigenetic alterations, such as increased DNA methylation and modifications in histones and microRNA expression. Further, these alterations may target genes that regulate stem cells and prevent differentiation of their daughter cells. Recent findings in a preclinical model suggest that not only are women exposed to DES in utero at an increased risk of developing breast cancer, but this risk may extend to their daughters and granddaughters as well. It is critical, therefore, to determine if the increased risk is driven by epigenetic alterations in genes that increase susceptibility to breast cancer and if these alterations are reversible.
Chlamydia trachomatis inclusion membrane protein CT228 recruits elements of the myosin phosphatase pathway to regulate release mechanisms

Chlamydia trachomatis replicates within a membrane-bound compartment termed an inclusion. The inclusion membrane is modified by the insertion of multiple proteins known as Incs. In a yeast two-hybrid screen, an interaction was found between the inclusion membrane protein CT228 and MYPT1, a subunit of myosin phosphatase. MYPT1 was recruited peripherally around the inclusion, whereas the phosphorylated, inactive form was localized to active Src-family kinase-rich microdomains. Phosphorylated myosin light chain 2 (MLC2), myosin light chain kinase (MLCK), myosin IIA, and myosin IIB also colocalized with inactive MYPT1. The role of these proteins was examined in the context of host-cell exit mechanisms (i.e., cell lysis and extrusion of intact inclusions). Inhibition of myosin II or small interfering RNA depletion of myosin IIA, myosin IIB, MLC2, or MLCK reduced chlamydial extrusion, thus favoring lytic events as the primary means of release. These studies provide insights into the regulation of egress mechanisms by C. trachomatis.
A course in software development

The paper discusses a course in software development, as advocated by the CC2001 report. The course revolves around a single project divided into six assignments. In addition, the course includes lab assignments covering the tool of the week. The order of coverage of topics and the order of labs is determined using just-in-time learning. Grading criteria and an assessment of the course are discussed.
Infant apnea detection after herniorrhaphy

Abstract Study Objective: To elucidate risk factors for apnea in preterm infants discharged from the hospital and in full-term healthy infants. To determine the efficacy of real-time cardiopulmonary monitoring versus computerized storage and retrieval for infants at risk. Study Design: Prospective study. Setting: Operating rooms and pediatric patient care units of university medical center. Patients: 27 preterm infants and 20 full-term infants no more than 60 weeks' postconceptional age, who were admitted for elective herniorrhaphy. Interventions: Infants were monitored before and after herniorrhaphy with general anesthesia using an infant apnea impedance monitor, pulse oximetry, and nursing observation. Measurements and Main Results: Demographic information and medical history were correlated with postoperative apnea. The sensitivity and specificity of nursing observation and oximetry were compared with computerized apnea monitors. Five patients (11%, four preterm, one full-term) were apneic postoperatively as recorded by computerized pneumocardiography. Previous apnea history, gestational age at birth, and postconceptional age at operation positively correlated with postoperative apnea. Nursing observation failed to detect 4 of 5 patients with documented apnea (sensitivity 20%, positive predictive value 50%). Pulse oximetry failed to detect 3 of 5 patients with apnea (sensitivity 40%, positive predictive value 66%). Conclusions: Although it is easier to predict postoperative respiratory dysfunction in previously sick or very young infants, absolute predictability for all neonates remains elusive. Clinical monitors with both storage and retrieval capabilities and real-time monitoring increase our ability to detect significant events in children at risk for apnea after herniorrhaphy.
Probe modeling for millimeter-wave integrated-circuit horn antennas

In an effort to develop an antenna-mixer array based on the existing technology, various antenna probes inside pyramidal horns have been examined on scaled model-horns at microwave frequencies. Modeling results and design principles of these antenna probes are presented, which include the resonant impedance, the operating frequency, and the bandwidth of the horn antennas. These measurement results provide a guideline for designing probes for millimeter/submillimeter-wave integrated-circuit horn-antenna-mixer arrays. All the impedance measurements indicate that the presence of the horn increases the effective length of the probe element. They also indicate that the resonant frequencies can be controlled by changing the length of the probes or loading the probes, and that resonant resistances can be increased to a reasonable matching range by folding the probes. The fan-probe design indicates that the bandwidth can be increased by changing the probe width. >
Interactions between polymeric containers and their contained solution : modeling of polymer-water solute partitioning via coupled solvent-water partition coefficients

The interaction between several polymeric materials, typical of those that have application as parenteral product containers, and 16 marker solutes was evaluated. Polymers used included polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, ethylenevinyl acetate, an olefin rubber, a polyester ether block copolymer, and various composites of these materials. In addition, the partitioning of solutes between two common PVC plasticizers (dioctyl phthalate and butyryl hexyl citrate) and water was also examined. Correlation between equilibrium interaction constants (Eb) (which describe the equilibrium distribution of a solute between contacting polymer and solution phases) and solute octanol-water (Po-w) or hexane-water (Ph-w) partition coefficients were in general poor for all materials studied. However, a bivariate linear interaction model relating Eb to both partition coefficients: effectively mimicked the interaction behavior of all materials evaluated. The utilization of the developed models to facilitate container compatability assessments is discussed. In addition, the use of a critical ratio of binding constants for a pair of solutes is introduced as a means of qualitatively assessing the effectiveness of a particular solvent as a polymer model.
A new Prodoxus from Yucca baccata: first report of a leaf-mining prodoxine (Lepidoptera: Prodoxidae).

Prodoxus phylloryctus , a new species of yucca moth, is described and illustrated. The larvae mine in the semisucculent leaves of Yucca baccata Torrey (Agavaceae); the surrounding leaf tissue hardens and becomes gall-like. P. phylloryctus occurs sympatrically with its sister-species, P. coloradensis Riley. The two are ecologically separated. Larvae of the latter live in floral stalks, and adults emerge about two weeks earlier. P. phylloryctus exhibited a 2:1 female-biased sex ratio. A skewed sex ratio was not observed in P. coloradensis nor has this phenomenon been reported in other yucca moths. Appreciable numbers of larvae of both Prodoxus species carry-over more than one year in a prolonged diapause. A phylogeny for prodoxine genera (sensu Davis 1987) is proposed.
Lorcaserin: An investigational serotonin 2C agonist for weight loss

Purpose The pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and adverse effects of the selective serotonin (5-HT) agonist lorcaserin are reviewed, with an emphasis on efficacy and safety data from Phase III clinical trials. Summary Lorcaserin is highly selective for a subtype of 5-HT receptors important in appetite regulation, with low affinity for other 5-HT-receptor subtypes whose activation is thought to underlie serious cardiovascular adverse effects; such effects have been seen with nonselective serotonergic agents for weight loss (e.g., fenfluramine). In two Phase III trials of lorcaserin, the cumulative proportion of patients who achieved weight loss of ≥5% over 12 months was about 47% with lorcaserin use versus 20–25% among placebo users ( p < 0.0001 for both trials). Lorcaserin was generally well tolerated in the clinical trials to date; nausea and vomiting, headache, and dizziness were the most commonly reported adverse effects. In two of the three Phase III trials to date, lorcaserin use was not found to increase the risk of cardiac valvulopathy; however, in the other Phase III trial, which focused on patients with diabetes, lorcaserin use was associated with an increased rate of new valvulopathy. In a carcinogenicity evaluation involving laboratory rats, lorcaserin was linked to the development of various malignancies, a finding with uncertain implications for its potential future use in humans. Conclusion Lorcaserin, a 5-HT2C agonist, has demonstrated efficacy in patients who are obese or are overweight with associated comorbidities. Phase III trials have found that more than 35% of patients lost greater than 5% of their baseline weight. The maker of lorcaserin has indicated it will continue to seek U.S. marketing approval of the drug for the indications of long-term weight loss and weight-loss maintenance in specific patient populations.