cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Urine vanadium concentrations in workers overhauling an oil-fired boiler.

Since fuel oil ash contains vanadium (V), the measurement of urinary levels of V may provide a biological marker in workers exposed to fuel oil ash. The usefulness of urine V samples as a biological monitoring tool ultimately depends on determining the appropriate time of sampling relative to when exposure occurs. Twenty boilermakers were studied during the overhaul of a large oil-fired boiler. A total of 117 urine samples were collected, 65 start-of-shift (S-O-S) and 52 end-of-shift (E-O-S) samples. Air V exposures were estimated with personal sampling devices and work history diaries. Air V concentrations ranged from 0.36 to 32.19 μg V/m3, with a mean ±SD of 19.1 ± 10.7, and a median of 18.5. On the first day of work on the overhaul, the V urine levels at the E-O-S (mean ±SD were 1.53 ± 0.53, median was 1.52 mg V/g creatinine) were significantly higher than those at the S-O-S (0.87 ± 0.32, median was 0.83), P = 0.004. However, the V concentrations of the S-O-S urine samples on the last Monday of the study were not significantly different from the S-O-S urine levels on the previous Saturday, a time interval of about 38 hr between the end of exposure and sample collection. The Spearman correlation coefficient (r) between the S-O-S urine V and the workplace concentration of V dust during the previous day was r=0.35. In summary, the results suggest a rapid initial clearance of V (elevating the E-O-S V concentration on the first day of work relative to the S-O-S concentration), followed by a slow clearance that is not complete 38 hr after the end of exposure, as evidenced by the Monday morning urine V concentrations. The Spearman correlations suggest that the S-O-S urine is preferred to the E-O-S urine for across-shift biological monitoring of V exposure.Am. J. Ind. Med. 33:55–60, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Fully-distributed fiber-optic high temperature sensing based on stimulated Brillouin scattering

We proposed a Brillouin optical fiber time domain analysis (BOTDA)-based fully-distributed temperature system as high as 1000°C and spatial resolution to 5 meters. This technique is prominent for high spatial resolution fully distributed high temperature and stress sensing over long distance.
Addressing health literacy through clear health communication: A training program for internal medicine residents

Abstract Objective To develop, pilot, and test the effectiveness of a clear health communication curriculum to improve resident knowledge, attitudes, and skills regarding health literacy. Methods Thirty-one internal medicine residents participated in a small group curriculum that included didactic teaching, practice with a standardized patient, and individualized feedback on videotaped encounters with real patients. Outcomes were assessed using a pre-post survey and a communication skills checklist. Results Mean knowledge scores increased significantly from 60.3% to 77.6% ( p p p =0.023). There were nonsignificant increases in the use of teach-back (0–36%, p =0.116) and encouraging questions (0–14%, p =0.502). Conclusion Training in clear health communication improves resident knowledge, attitudes, and skills regarding health literacy. Practice implications The increased use of clear health communication techniques can significantly improve the care and outcomes of vulnerable patients with limited health literacy.
Acetone sorption and uptake kinetic in poly(ethylene terephthalate)

Abstract The sorption and kinetics of acetone uptake in solvent cast films of poly(ethylene terephthalate) are reported at 35°C for acetone pressures ranging from 0 to 7.3 cm Hg. The equilibrium sorption isotherm is well described by the dual-mode sorption model with the following parameters: kD=61 cm3(STP)/(cm3·atm), C ′ H =7.2 cm 3 ( STP)/cm 3 , and b=50 atm−1. Sorption kinetics are described using a two-stage model which incorporates both Fickian diffusion and protracted polymer structural relaxation. The characteristic time associated with the relaxation process is essentially independent of acetone concentration and has an average value of approximately 15 hours. The fraction of sorption associated with polymer relaxation increases linearly with acetone concentration in the equilibrium-densified matrix of the polymer. Acetone diffusion coefficients increase with increasing acetone concentration. The concentration dependence of the acetone diffusion coefficient is well described by the dual-mobility model if the assumption of constant diffusion coefficients in the two modes is relaxed.
Explicit conditions for Local Thermal Equilibrium in porous media heat conduction

Based on the traditional formulation of heat transfer in porous media it is demonstrated that Local Thermal Equilibrium (Lotheq) applies generally for any boundary conditions that are a combination of constant temperature and insulation. The resulting consequences are being analysed and discussed. Among these consequences it is shown that the linear relationship between the average temperature difference of the two phases and the heat transferred over the fluid-solid interface is inappropriate for use in connection with conditions of Lack of Local Thermal Equilibrium (La Lotheq).
Computing the behavior of malicious code with function extraction technology

Modern society is irreversibly dependent on computer-based infrastructure systems of astonishing scope and complexity. Yet these systems are increasingly vulnerable to disabling intrusions by adversaries equipped with the knowledge and resources to mount sophisticated attacks [1, 2]. Technical and organizational preparation for major attacks is essential to national security. Preparation takes time and effort, and when a major attack occurs, it is too late to prepare. Preparation must provide capability for fast and precise analysis of the technical structure of an attack as a basis for fast response to limit damage and deploy countermeasures.
Possible Explanations of Transient Neck Formation between Pairs of (100) Faceted Particles

Rankin and Boatner have observed that (100) faceted MgO particles in contact along either corners or edges developed, on heating, necks that initially grew, but then shrank and broke. General thermodynamic models are provided that predict this transient neck formation for any cubic particles that share only a small fraction of an edge and for particles that share an edge that is less than 0.6 times as long as the orthogonal edges. A third model, which assumes that reaction of MgO particles with their carbon substrate removes MgO from the MgO–carbon interface at a constant rate, explains the observation that the neck shrinkage rate greatly exceeds the neck growth rate. Application of the theory to explaining the seeming prevalence of rounded surfaces in sintering powders is described.
Preservice teachers reflect on memories from early childhood

Abstract This study investigated the childhood memories of preservice teachers at the onset of their teacher education program. Preservice teachers (n = 59) were asked to complete a self‐reflection assignment by writing about their earliest significant school memory. Memories, a subjective transcription of one's experiences, feelings, and beliefs, were analyzed and themes were identified: Positive Teacher Characteristics and Strategies (including Positive Guidance Strategies, Teacher Demonstrated Warmth and Empathy, and Teacher Planned Special Events and Activities for Children), Negative Teacher Characteristics and Strategies (including Negative Guidance Strategies and Teacher Demonstrated a Lack of Respect and Empathy for Children), and Peer Interactions. In addition, preservice teachers’ present emotional response to the early school experience was analyzed. Results are discussed in terms of themes that are important for self‐reflection exercises in teacher education programs having an orientation towa...
Partnerships in creating agile sustainable development communities

Abstract The key to clean, renewable and healthy futures for society(s) can be seen in the need to consider how all infrastructure areas such as water, waste and transportation, energy are treated. And to focus attention on the emerging commercial technologies (such as hydrogen fuel cell vehicles) that will be available regionally and then globally within the next five to ten years. Planning and investing now for that future will prove to be prudent and cost effective. Public-private partnerships, known as “civic markets“ can create and provide “funds” such as public bonds along with private sector innovation and markets on the regional, state and national levels. Similar bond funds have been passed by the electorate in California, most recently for stem cell research (USA$3 billion). Public support to promote funding for sustainable communities has also been demonstrated with bond funds for water, forests and land preservation. “Agile energy systems” are flexible and adapt to change effectively and efficiently for economic, environmental and social benefits, the triple bottom line. However, there needs to be collaboration between the pubic and private sectors in creating them. Such civic markets can from new associations of communities, cities and nation-states that might be useful to plan public policies and create the “government market“ in terms of procurement and coordination of public resources for renewable energy on-site and central grid power generation. One suggestion is to form an “Association of Agile Energy Cities or communities.”
Phase equilibria for water-methanol mixtures in perfluorosulfonic-acid membranes

A new apparatus was constructed for precise measurements of water–methanol up-take compositions in a membrane. Uptake concentrations of methanol and water in a Nafion 117 membrane were measured as a function of methanol mole fraction in a liquid-methanol–water mixture for the temperature range 298 to 333 K. Also, uptake concentrations of methanol and water were determined for a second-cycle uptake run. All methanol–water compositions were determined by gas chromatography. The results were quantitatively described by either one of two thermodynamically consistent equations derived from models for the Gibbs energy of the system.
Revenue Diversification in Nonprofit Organizations: Does it Lead to Financial Stability?

This article investigates whether revenue diversification leads to greater stability in the revenue structures of nonprofit organizations. Our findings suggest that nonprofits can indeed reduce their revenue volatility through diversification, particularly by equalizing their reliance on earned income, investments, and contributions. This positive effect of diversification on revenue stability implies that a diversified portfolio encourages more stable revenues and consequently could promote greater organizational longevity. Despite any additional complexity or crowding out, nonprofit managers may increase the financial stability of their organizations by adding additional revenue streams. However, our analysis also reveals several other important factors that contribute to nonprofit revenue stability. In particular, increasing a nonprofit organization's total expenses and fund balance reduces volatility, suggesting larger nonprofits and organizations with greater growth potential experience greater revenue stability. Finally, the results suggest nonprofits relying primarily on contributions will experience more volatility, whereas nonprofits located within urban areas will have more stable revenue structures over time.
Field dependence of TDDB lifetime activation energy in copper interconnects

We apply the charge transport model to simulate the TDDB lifetime activation energies (E a ,eV) in copper interconnects. The model very accurately predicts the available activation energy data, in actual interconnect test structures, over a wide range of electric fields. The importance of the induced dipole energy term in influencing breakdown is highlighted by the close match of the experiment and theory. The model can be applied to determine the reliable operating voltage for a given operating temperature.
The restorative effect of peritoneal macrophages on delayed hypersensitivity following ionizing radiation.

Abstract Sublethal whole-body irradiation in the guinea pig had little demonstrable effect on the development of delayed hypersensitivity but caused a profound, though transient depression of dermal reactivity in previously sensitized animals. Macrophage-rich peritoneal cell suspensions from non-sensitive donors when injected intradermally with eliciting antigen, resulted in the restoration of a significant degree of reactivity following irradiation. Inocula of lymphocytes, on the other hand, failed to yield similar results. These findings, when taken with the persistence of low levels of reactivity following irradiation and the ability to transfer reactivity with peritoneal exudate cells from animals so treated, warrant the conclusion that the presence of macrophages is necessary for the expression of cutaneous delayed hypersensitivity. The spontaneously renewed activity which follows the depressed phase is thus more of a reflection of the recovery of macrophage precursors from radiation injury, rather than the emergence of a new population of sensitized cells. The results, in addition, substantiate the belief that the expression of delayed hypersensitivity requires at least two cell populations, only one of which carries the property of specificity at the outset. The presence of the sensitized population cannot always be excluded by a weak or absent skin test.
Enhanced recombination between λplac5 and mini-F-lac: The tra regulon is required for recombination enhancement

F42lac recombination with λplac is normally 20-fold to 50-fold higher than recombination between λplac and a chromosomal lac gene. Transductional crosses with λplac and a recombinant plasmid containing the lac operon and F replication functions show only two to four-fold higher recombination than similar crosses with a chromosomal lac gene. Insertion of a BamHI fragment containing the entire tra regulon of F into the mini-F-lac plasmid restores the high level of recombination seen with F42lac.
FACTORS CONTROLLING EXCEPTIONAL PRESERVATION IN CONCRETIONS

Concretions are an important source of soft-bodied fossils. In order to determine the controls on exceptional fossilization within concretions, we scored 88 concretion-bearing sites for 11 environmental and compositional variables together with presence/absence of soft-tissue preservation and analyzed their relationships using multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) and qualitative logistic regression. Sites yielding exceptional fossils were distributed randomly through the 88 examples considered, suggesting that exceptional preservation can occur in almost any environment where concretions form. The patterns of interaction of the variables in the MCA revealed that the most important factors controlling exceptional preservation in concretions are related to (1) the potential for fossil preservation in the broader depositional setting (i.e., how likely fossils are to be preserved without concretions but in the same depositional environment) and (2) the rate of concretion growth. In an analysis of the contribution of individual variables, logistic regression showed that two features correlate with the presence of soft-tissue preservation in concretions: (1) fine-grained host lithology, and (2) relatively constant δ13C values. The role of the first of these can be tested experimentally. Decay experiments on fish tissue in glass beads of three different sizes and therefore of different permeability showed that decay is inhibited, and mineral precipitation enhanced, in low-permeability sediments. Thus a process of positive feedback promotes exceptional preservation where early cementation results in a rapid decrease in permeability during concretion formation. The second feature, a relatively constant δ13C trend, suggests that certain patterns of concretion growth, pervasive growth or concentric growth with one growth layer, are more conducive to fossilization than others.
Spectrally And Temporally Resolved Low-Light Level Video Microscopy

The IDG law-light video microscope system was designed to aid studies of localization of subcellular luminescence sources and stimulus/response coupling in single living cells using luminescent probes. Much of the motivation for design of this instrument system came from the pioneering efforts of Dr. Reynolds (Reynolds, Q. Rev. Biophys. 5, 295-347; Reynolds and Taylor, Bioscience 30, 586-592) who showed the value of intensified video camera systems for detection and localizion of fluorescence and bioluminescence signals from biological tissues. Our instrument system has essentially two roles, 1) localization and quantitation of very weak bioluminescence signals and 2) quantitation of intracellular environmental characteristics such as pH and calcium ion concentrations using fluorescent and bioluminescent probes. The instrument system exhibits over one million fold operating range allowing visualization and enhancement of quantum limited images with quantum limited response, spectral analysis of fluorescence signals, and transmitted light imaging. The computer control of the system implements rapid switching between light regimes, spatially resolved spectral scanning, and digital data processing for spectral shape analysis and for detailed analysis of the statistical distribution of single cell measurements. The system design and software algorithms used by the system are summarized. These design criteria are illustrated with examples taken from studies of bioluminescence, applications of bioluminescence to study developmental processes and gene expression in single living cells, and applications of fluorescent probes to study stimulus/response coupling in living cells.
Cautionary thoughts on IUCN protected area management categories V–VI

The debate about the International Union for the Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) protected area management categories V–VI has been ongoing since the mid-1990s. Even though these two categories were officially adopted at the Fifth World Parks Congress in Durban in 2003, and approved at the Fourth IUCN World Parks Conference in Barcelona, in 2008, this has not completely alleviated the fears of some debate participants. The question persists, can the perceived dual role of these two categories in promoting the preservation of biological diversity and the economic welfare of local people actually work in synergy? One aspect of categories V–VI needs careful scrutiny: buffer zone land use restrictions and adequate governance. Although local participation in buffer zone management marks a wise cooperative policy, some coercion and enforcement by protected area (PA) authorities seems essential to assure that land use practices in the buffer zone are optimal for core area biota. Buffer zone policy and governance is key to PA biological diversity conservation success.
Endogenous metabolism of Staphylococcus aureus.

Some of the reactions of endogenous metabolism ofStaphylococcus aureus were examined and the level of endogenous substrate was found to be related to oxygen consumption. In starved cells, the amount of free amino acids, protein and RNA decreased while that of DNA increased. The cells consumed mainly glutamic and aspartic acids and, to a lesser degree, alanine, glycine and serine, while leucine/isoleucine, methionine, tyrosine and phenylalanine were released into the medium. The degradation of RNA by starved cells was suppressed by Mg2+. Resting cells ofStaphylococcus aureus oxidized adenosine, guanosine, uridine, adenine, guanine and ribose. After 3 h of starvation at 37°C the viability of cells was not affected although 40.6% amino acids, 8.5% protein and 36.5% RNA had been consumed.
Overview of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis thoughout the world. It is among the leading causes of disability and functional loss. Given the aging of the population and the rise in obesity which is a major risk factor for knee and hip osteoarthritis, the prevalence of osteoarthritis is increasing. Painful osteoarthritis of the knee affects at least 12% of persons age 60 and over in the Western World and likely affects an even higher percentage of persons this age in China. While hyaline articular cartilage loss is the signature feature on pathology, the disease affects all structures of the joint in a nonuniform manner, affecting some areas of the joint more than others. Bone remodeling, fibrocartilage (especially meniscal) degeneration, synovitis, and weakness of muscles that bridge the joint all occur at the same time as cartilage loss. While disease begins perhaps with focal cartilage erosion or injury, the joint narrows at the site of erosion, and stress across this region of the joint increases, causing more damage. Misalignment across the joint creates high local stresses which are particularly damaging, pointing to the critical role of mechanical loading in driving the disease process. A vicious cycle of progressive local cartilage loss, bone remodeling, meniscal change, synovitis and misalignment across the joint emerges. Early on in this pathologic sequence, the person has little if any joint pain. Intermittent and mild joint pain starts usually only after considerable joint damage is present. Even after pathology is present, many persons have no joint pain and others develop pain with little evidence of pathology on x-ray. The structures in the joint whose pathology is tied to joint pain include bone and synovium and possibly tears in fibrocartilage or ligaments. Bone marrow lesions on MRI which histologically represent areas of bone damage are probably caused by malalignment related stress. These bone marrow lesions probably cause pain as does synovitis which is present in many osteoarthritic joints. Synovitis can produce fluid which distends the joint capsule which can also cause pain. The course of osteoarthritis is highly variable, but when progression occurs, it is often accompanied by more severe and more consistent joint pain. There are few, if any, effective preventive strategies for osteoarthritis. The main nonsurgical treatments for osteoarthritis are rehabilitative treatments including exercise, strengthening, weight loss, and braces and orthotics. Drug treatments include analgesics and antinflammatory medications. Nutriceuticals and hyaluronans are controversial in terms of efficacy. No treatment has been shown to slow the disease process.
Selective uptake of 3H tyramine by chromaffin cells in vitro and simultaneous release of noradrenaline.

Cultures of adrenal explants derived from rat and mouse embryos were exposed to3H tyramine for intervals of 5 to 25 minutes. Light and electron microscopic autoradiography revealed a selective up-take of3H tyramine in chromaffin cells, and not in adrenocortical cells or fibroblasts. During this same period release of noradrenaline by chromaffin cells was demonstrated. Grains were observed over dense core vesicles at all times, and labelled vesicles were always distributed throughout the cytoplasm with no concentrations close to the plasma membrane. The mechanism of tyramine-induced secretion is discussed in the light of these findings.
Determinants of the volatility of futures markets price returns: The case of Chinese wheat futures

This paper establishes the test models of individual effect and joint effect of the futures price volatility determinants on the basis of GARCH(1,1) model, and takes example for Wheat futures, and analyses empirically the relationship of futures price volatility and time to maturity, of futures price volatility and the day of week, of futures price volatility and volume and open interest. the study results indicate that the price volatility of Wheat futures doesnpsilat exist consistent maturity effect, and maturity effect explains very little of the volatility in futures prices. With respect to the day of week effect, the volatility of futures prices throughout the week is found to be different, the volatility of futures prices on Mondays is higher than the other days of the week, the volatility of futures prices on Friday is lower than the other days of the week, the day of week effect has a little explanation function of volatility. Consistent with the MDH, the results indicate a positive relationship between price volatility and volume, and a negative relationship between price volatility and open interest, and volume and open interest have a larger explanatory power of futures price volatility.
Advances in thermal ink-jet printing

In recent years, ink jet has emerged as one of the mainstream printing technologies. Since its market inception in 1985, Hewlett-Packard's thermal ink jet technology (TIJ) has evolved progressively from a 12 nozzle 96 dpi print head to a 300 nozzle 600 dpi print head. TIJ has made rapid progress enabling it to print text output on plain paper that challenges laser printers, and realistic photographic images that rival silver halide, at a low consumer price. Thermal ink jet technology continues to enjoy a greater unit market share than any other digital printing technology and all other ink jet technologies combined. The driving forces for the advancement of TIJ have been better, faster, and cheaper printers for consumers. These goals involve key attributes such as ink performance (gamut, sharpness, fastness), minimum deliverable colorant (drop volume), rate of colorant delivery (firing frequency, nozzle integration, firing chamber volume), and print engine cost per unit throughput. In this paper, key technology challenges for TIJ will be outlined. New materials and new processes that are required for the advancement of thermal ink jet printing are discussed. Recently, competing ink jet methods have (re-)emerged, notably piezoelectric ink jet. References will be made to piezoelectric ink jet when appropriate.© (1998) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Target localization and function estimation in sparse sensor networks

The problem of distributed estimation of a parametric function in space is stated as a maximum likelihood estimation problem. The function can represent a parametric physical ¯eld generated by an object or be a deterministic function that parameterizes an inhomogeneous spatial random process. In our formulation, a sparse network of homogeneous sensors takes noisy measurements of the function. Prior to data transmission, each sensor quantizes its observation to L levels. The quantized data are then communicated over parallel noisy channels to a fusion center for a joint estimation. The numerical examples are provided for the cases of (1) a Gaussian-shaped ¯eld that approximates the distribution of pollution or fumes produced by an object and (2) a radiation ¯eld due to a spatial counting process with the intensity function decaying according to the inverse square law. The dependence of the mean- square error on the number of sensors in the network, the number of quantization levels, and the SNR in observation and transmission channels is analyzed. In the case of Gaussian-shaped ¯eld, the performance of the developed estimator is compared to unbiased Cramer-Rao Lower Bound.
Suicide in South India: A community-based study in Kerala.

Background: Studies from Tamil Nadu, South India, have reported the world's highest suicide rates. As per official reports, Kerala, another South Indian state has the highest suicide rate among the major states in India. Objective: The purpose of this analysis is to estimate the rates and age-specific incidence of suicide in a rural community in Kerala, under continuous observation for the last five years. Settings and Design: The study setting comprised of seven contiguous panchayats constituting a development block in Kerala. A prospective cohort study design was used. Materials and Methods: Through regular home visits, every death that occurred in the community was captured by local resident health workers and the cause of death assigned. Statistical Analysis: Suicide rates by age and sex and relative share of suicide deaths to all-cause deaths in men and women were calculated. Results: During the five-year period from 2002 to 2007, 284 cases of suicide were reported. The suicide rates were 44.7/100,000 for males and 26.8/100,000 for females. Male to female suicide ratio was 1.7. Among females aged between 15 and 24, suicides constituted more than 50% of all deaths. Male to female ratio of suicide varied from 0.4 in children aged 14 years or less to 4.5 in the 45-54 year age group. Conclusion: Our analysis shows that the level of under-reporting of suicides in rural Kerala is much less than that reported in Tamil Nadu.
Quantitative PCR: Procedures and precisions

We develop a multitype branching-process model for the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). We apply the model to a comparison of three methods for estimating the initial number of molecules of target present in a PCR. These three methods are: one which uses a coamplified, internal control; one which uses an external control series; and one which uses simple extrapolation of log outputvs time (no control). We identify assumptions for each method which permit mathematical analysis of bias and precision. All three methods perform well if: (1) replication efficiencies are stable among reactions; (2) other method-specific conditions on efficiencies are met; and (3) product accumulates exponentially throughout the range where it is observed. When replication efficiencies vary among reactions but other optimal conditions for each method hold, the no-control and external-control methods lose precision relative to the internal control method, but they may still perform satisfactorily for many applications. The internal control method continues to perform well even if accumulation of product plateaus. This method depends, however, on a condition we call equivalence of replication efficiencies, the attainability of which in practice remains to be proven.
Evidence for G protein mediation of serotonin- and GABAB-induced hyperpolarization of rat dorsal raphe neurons.

Abstract In vitro intracellular recording techniques in the rat brain slice preparation demonstrate that both serotonin (5-HT) and baclofen (a GABAB-receptor agonist) inhibit 5-HT neurons in the dorsal raphe nucleus by inducing a hyperpolarization of membrane potential and a decrease in apparent input resistance (Rin). Similar to previous results with 5-HT, baclofen-mediated inhibition of 5-HT neurons also shows an apparent reversal potential (Erev) of approximately-90 mV, consistent with mediation by K channels. In slices from rats that had previously received a local injection of pertussis toxin (0.5 μg) immediately rostral to the dorsal raphe nucleus, there was a virtually complete blockade of inhibition induced by both the serotonin autoreceptor and the GABAB-receptor. Intracellular injection of the stable GTP analog (guanosine-5−O-(3-thiotriphosphate); GTPγS) mimicked the actions of both 5-HT and baclofen. The inhibitory actions of GTPγS were not additive with those of either 5-HT or baclofen, suggesting they share some common effector system. The stable cAMP analog (8-bromo-adenosine-3′, 5′-cyclic monophosphate (8-Br-cAMP) had no effect on membrane potential or apparent input resistance and did not block the inhibitory actions mediated by 5-HT or baclofen. The local injection of pertussis toxin (0.5 γg) caused a far greater blockade of 5-HT and baclofen-mediated inhibition than the intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injection of pertussis toxin (1.0 γg). In parallel sets of animals with i.c.v. and local injections, we measured the pertussis toxin-mediated ADP-ribosylation of G proteins in membranes prepared from dorsal raphe nucleus. These biochemical studies showed that sensitivities to 5-HT and baclofen correlated with the concentration of remaining non-ADP-ribosylated G proteins following in vivo pertussis toxin injection. In summary, these results provide evidence for the role of a G protein(s) in the mediation of the cAMP-independent increase in potassium conductance in 5-HT neurons of dorsal raphe nucleus induced by both 5-HT1A and GABAB-receptors.
Perioperative Management of Medications Used in the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an inflammatory arthritis that can destroy joint structures, are often on multiple medications to control disease activity. These medications may have significant toxicities and side effects. Over the course of their lifetime, patients with this disease often require orthopedic procedures, including total joint arthroplasty, and the medications they are taking present management issues specific to the perioperative period. As many of these medications are immunosuppressive, the concern for postoperative infection and delayed wound healing are particularly worrisome. We conducted a review of the available literature pertaining to the perioperative use of the most commonly prescribed medications for RA. Although the existing data directly addressing perioperative complications in orthopedic surgery is sparse, information on relevant complications resulting from the general use of these drugs may be used as a basis for conservative recommendations.
Effect of pressure on order in the nematic liquid crystal p-azoxyanisole

Abstract NMR measurements of the pressure and temperature dependence of the nematic order parameter ν = 1 2 〈3 cos 2 θ−1〉 are reported for p-azoxyanisole. The observed dependence of ν on density suggests that repulsive and attractive interactions both significantly affect nematic order.
Succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency associated with combined 4-hydroxybutyric and dicarboxylic acidurias: potential for clinical misdiagnosis based on urinary organic acid profiling.

Succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase (EC 1.2.1.24) deficiency (McKusick 27198) is a rare inherited disorder of 4-aminobutyric acid metabolism. SSADH deficiency leads to the accumulation of succinic semialdehyde which can be reduced to 4-hydroxybutyric acid. An absolute correlation has been demonstrated between increased physiologic fluid levels of GHB, a compound possessing unique pharmacologic properties, 1 and a deficiency of SSADH documented in extracts of lymphocytes or lymphoblasts derived from 13 patients. 2 A recent report has described four additional patients with increased urinary GHB excretion? Two sets of siblings from unrelated families were tested. Although confirmatory enzyme analyses were not performed, these four subjects also are likely to have SSADH deficiency. Deficiency of SSADH has been characterized clinically by mild to marked psychomotor retardation, muscular hypotonia, and a nonprogressive truncal and appendicular ataxia. 4 Levels of other metabolites related to GHB, such as 3,4-dihydroxybutyric and glycolic acids, are often elevated in the urine, 3 indicating that accumulated GHB is further degraded by means of a /3-oxidation sequence. Blood levels of glycine have been increased in these patients, 2 and some patients have shown an improvement
The impact of unionization on the entry of firms: Evidence from U.S. industries

Traditional models of entry-deterrence typically emphasize sunk costs or predatory pricing, but unionization might also discourage potential entrants. This paper explores this possibility through an empirical model of entry that includes unionization as an explanatory variable. We find that unionization has a statistically significant entry-deterring effect.
A histochemical and electron microscopic study of epinephrine-induced myocardial necrosis.

Abstract A histochemical and electron microscopic study was made of the effects of large doses of epinephrine on the rat heart. Diffuse changes observed in the initial phases of epinephrine toxicity consisted of the deposition of lipid droplets in the myocardial fibres, an increase in the activity of oxidative enzymes, and a rapid fall in myocardial glycogen. These alterations gradually subsided except in certain areas, mostly in the subendocardium, in which foci of myocardial necrosis developed with marked fatty degeneration and total loss of oxidative enzyme activity. Electron microscopy revealed swelling of the sarcoplasmic reticulum, the T-system, and the mitochondria. The mitochondrial cristae often developed angulations in their ordinarily straight, parallel surfaces. These changes appeared to be largely reversible. Alterations of the contractile elements were found only in association with myocardial necrosis and were characterized by hyalinization and loss of the striations.
Pestalozzi's Mark on nineteenth‐century composition instruction: Ideas not in words, but in things

(1995). Pestalozzi's Mark on nineteenth‐century composition instruction: Ideas not in words, but in things. Rhetoric Review: Vol. 14, No. 1, pp. 23-43.
Taking the STING out of cytosolic DNA sensing

Detection of cytosolic DNA activates a downstream signaling molecule called STimulator of INterferon Genes (STING). Inappropriate or excessive activation of STING can lead to autoimmune disease. A new paper in Cell addresses the important question of how STING-dependent signaling is normally constrained.
Pulsar in SN 1987A: will a second gravitational collapse occur?

Les caracteristiques du pulsar optique decouvert recemment dans le reste de supernova SN 1987A suggerent que le mecanisme impulsionnel sous-jacent implique une etoile a neutrons en rotation rapide. La periode de rotation observee implique que l'etoile a neutrons possede une equation d'etat «douce» avec une masse baryonique M≥1.64 M○. et une masse gravitationnelle M≥1.45 M○.. Les consequences de cette restriction de l'equation d'etat sont explorees sur l'evolution ulterieure du pulsar
Pannexin1 contributes to pathophysiological ATP release in lipoapoptosis induced by saturated free fatty acids in liver cells.

Hepatocyte lipoapoptosis induced by saturated free fatty acids (FFA) contributes to hepatic inflammation in lipotoxic liver injury, and the cellular mechanisms involved have not been defined. Recen...
Overlap in the distribution of TrkB immunoreactivity and retinohypothalamic tract innervation of the rat suprachiasmatic nucleus

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may regulate the circadian sensitivity of the clock in the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) to light, possibly by modulating retinohypothalamic tract (RHT) input. In the present study, the anatomical distribution of the cognate receptor for BDNF, the TrkB tyrosine kinase, in RHT fibers and the SCN of rats was analyzed using combined immunohistochemical and anterograde tracing methods. Fluorescent immunostaining for the TrkB receptor was evident in fibers and cell bodies throughout the SCN. Dual labeling analysis revealed that there was substantial overlap in the distribution of TrkB immunostaining and cholera toxin subunit B (CTB)-labeling within RHT terminals and fibers projecting from the optic chiasm to the ventrolateral SCN. The present results suggest that RHT fibers may express TrkB receptors and thus provide a paracrine target for BDNF-mediated regulation of photic input to the SCN.
African-American and Latino families in TADS: Recruitment and treatment considerations

The goal of this article is to review the experiences of some of the African-American and Lutino families who participated in the Treatment for Adolescents With Depression Study (TADS). The importance of this article derives from the historical and current inequities in mental health care for families of color. We describe the attempts within the TADS study to ensure an appropriate representation of families of color, a description of the age, and of the length and severity of depression of the African-American and Latino adolescents who participated in the TADS trial. The article additionally attempts, through case example, to convey the experiences of several of the African-American and Latino families who participated in TADS.
The effects of prebiotics on the digestive enzymes and gut histomorphology of red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus) and hybrid striped bass (Morone chrysops × M. saxatilis)

The effects of four prebiotics (fructo-oligosaccharide, Bio-MOS, transgalacto-oligosaccharide and GroBiotic-A) on digestive enzymes and intestinal morphology were studied in juvenile hybrid striped bass (Morone chrysops × M. saxatilis) and red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus) using two separate 8-week feeding trials. Red drum were fed experimental diets with the four prebiotics each individually supplemented at 1% and hybrid striped bass were fed diets supplemented with GroBiotic-A at 1 and 2%. Both trials were conducted with each diet fed to apparent satiation twice per d to three replicate groups of fifteen juvenile fish. For histomorphological analysis, gastrointestinal tract (GIT) samples from three randomly selected fish per tank were taken at 4 and 8 weeks for hybrid striped bass and at 8 weeks for red drum. For both trials, GIT samples from two randomly selected fish per tank were taken at 4 and 8 weeks and analysed for pepsin, trypsin, chymotrypsin, aminopeptidase, α-amylase, lipase, and both acid and alkaline phosphatase activities. The results of the histological evaluation indicated that the inclusion of prebiotics was adequate to elicit structural changes in the GIT of both species. On the other hand, no significant changes in the enzyme activities were detected at week 8 in both species. However, there was a transient effect of Bio-MOS supplementation on the activities of aminopeptidase, α-amylase and alkaline phosphatase at week 4 in red drum only. Thus, previously observed improvements in nutrient digestibility by these fish in response to prebiotic supplementation appear to be mostly related to changes in GIT structure as opposed to the enhancement of digestive enzyme activity.
Increased Susceptibility to Enzymatic Proteolysis of Mercaptoethanol-Treated Thyroid Protein Iodinated to Various Degrees In Vivo

Pretreatment with 0.05M mercaptoethanol markedly enhanced the rate of subsequent hydrolysis of prelabeled rat thyroid iodoprotein in a dilute (0.003%) solution of pancreatin. The susceptibility to hydrolysis after mercaptoethanol treatment was directly correlated with the length of time the rats had been fed an iodine-deficient diet before labeling their thyroids with radioiodine. Hypophysectomy further increased the susceptibility to proteolysis of iodoprotein from iodine-deficient rats. Poorly iodinated iodoprotein was also more readily degraded than highly iodinated iodoprotein by thyroid protease at both pH 3.6 and 7.4 after pretreatment with mercaptoethanol. Within 4 hr after injection of 0.3–10 μg of 127I-with 131I-into iodine-deficient rats given carrier-free 125I-24 hr earlier, the resistance of both 125I-and 131I-labeled iodoprotein to proteolysis was greatly increased. Since mercaptoethanol is known to disrupt disulfide bonds and permit more ready dissociation of the thyroglobulin molecule into ...
Ruthenium Olefin Metathesis Catalysts Bearing an N-Fluorophenyl-N-Mesityl-Substituted Unsymmetrical N-Heterocyclic Carbene

Two new ruthenium-based olefin metathesis catalysts, each bearing an unsymmetrical N-heterocyclic carbene ligand, have been synthesized and fully characterized. Their catalytic performance has been evaluated in ring-closing metathesis, cross metathesis, and ring-opening metathesis polymerization reactions.
Sterol utilization in honey bees fed a synthetic diet: analysis of prepupal sterols.

The sterols of prepupal honey bees, Apis mellifera L., from brood reared by workers fed chemically-defined synthetic diets containing cholesterol, campesterol, sitosterol, stigmasterol, 24-methylenecholesterol, or no sterol over a 12-week period were isolated, identified, and quantified. The major sterol present in each prepupal sample was 24-methylenecholesterol, but significant levels of sitosterol and isofucosterol were also present in every case, as was a very small percentage of desmosterol (usually < 1%). This is the first report of isofucosterol being identified in the sterols of the honey bee. A considerably larger percentage of each dietary sterol was found in prepupae reared by workers fed that particular sterol in the diet. This was most dramatic in the case of the cholesterol diet in which case cholesterol content increased to as much as 17.2% of the prepupal sterols, whereas cholesterol had not exceeded 2.2% in samples from other diet regimens. However, stigmasterol comprised no more than 6.3% of the total sterols in any sample from prepupae fed the stigmasterol diet. The preponderance of 24-methylenecholesterol in all prepupae, regardless of the dietary sterol provided to the workers, as well as the lesser quantities of sitosterol and isofucosterol present in all samples, suggest a unique system of utilization and metabolism of these dietary sterols by the worker bees. Apparently they make available to the brood varying amounts of unchanged dietary sterol plus considerable and fairly constant portions of 24-methylenecholesterol, sitosterol, and isofucosterol drawn from their own sterol pools.
THE NEUTRALINO SECTOR IN STRONGLY INTERACTING SUPERSYMMETRIC MODELS

The neutralino sector is analyzed for a supersymmetric nonlinear sigma model. This model describes the low energy physics of strongly interacting theories in which super-symmetry is softly broken at scales below the electroweak symmetry breaking scale. The measured width of the Z boson constrains the allowed range of parameters. In case the lightest neutralino is stable, limits on additional contributions to the invisible width of the Z boson and on the relic neutralino density further restrict parameter space. As a consequence, the lightest neutralino in the considered class of theories is required to have a mass above 15 GeV, but below MZ.
Bulimia and parotid swelling: a review and case report.

Bulimia, or “ox hunger,” is characterized by episodes of binge eating, during which there is a large intake of food over a short time span, followed by induced vomiting and occasionally periods of fasting. Classically, the problem starts in a teenage female who perceives herself as being too fat. As a result, the person develops feelings of guilt and low self-esteem.‘,’ An attempt at dieting leads to some weight loss and simultaneous hunger. In the susceptible individual, this hunger results in an eating binge. To counter the effect of the weight gain from the eating binge, self-induced vomiting is initiated. Once the individual realizes that the weight gain caused by the binge can be nullified by vomiting, less restraint is exerted on the binges. A natural progression is for the person to resort to binges not only when hungry, but also when tense or anxious.3 Vomiting is usually carried out in secret, and often with the aid of the emetic ipecac. Laxatives and diuretics frequently become adjunctive agents. Although bulimics may binge and vomit as little as twice a week, the frequency varies and it can become as high as 140 episodes each week.3-6 The average intake of food is 3,400 calories in a 1.2-hour period, with some patients ingesting as much as 50,000 calories in a 24hour period.5 Casper3 characterized the three major manifestations of bulimia nervosa as recurrent episodes of binge eating with an awareness on the patient’s part that the pattern is abnormal, the presence of depressed moods, and the absence of any known physical disorder. In addition, at least three of the following are present: high-calorie intake during the binge, inconspicuous eating during the binge, self-induced vomiting at the end of the binge, repeated attempts to lose weight through dieting and