cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Microbiota from Specific Pathogen-Free Mice Reduces Campylobacter jejuni Chicken Colonization

Campylobacter jejuni, a prevalent foodborne bacterial pathogen, is mainly transmitted from poultry with few effective prevention approaches. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of microbiota on C. jejuni chicken colonization. Microbiota from specific pathogen-free (SPF) mouse stools were collected as SPF-Aerobe and SPF-Anaerobe. Birds were colonized with SPF-Aerobe or SPF-Anaerobe at day 0 and infected with C. jejuni AR101 at day 12. Notably, C. jejuni AR101 colonized at 5.3 and 5.6 log10 C. jejuni CFU/g chicken cecal digesta at days 21 and 28, respectively, while both SPF-Aerobe and SPF-Anaerobe microbiota reduced pathogen colonization. Notably, SPF-Aerobe and SPF-Anaerobe increased cecal phylum Bacteroidetes and reduced phylum Firmicutes compared to those in the nontransplanted birds. Interestingly, microbiota from noninfected chickens, SPF-Aerobe, or SPF-Anaerobe inhibited AR101 in vitro growth, whereas microbiota from infected birds alone failed to reduce pathogen growth. The bacterium Enterobacter102 isolated from infected birds transplanted with SPF-Aerobe inhibited AR101 in vitro growth and reduced pathogen gut colonization in chickens. Together, SPF mouse microbiota was able to colonize chicken gut and reduce C. jejuni chicken colonization. The findings may help the development of effective strategies to reduce C. jejuni chicken contamination and campylobacteriosis.
Microbial activities and organic matter degradation at three sites in the coastal North Atlantic: Variations in DOC turnover times and potential for export off the shelf

Abstract The Mid-Atlantic Bight is a highly productive region where considerable quantities of organic matter are processed, transformed, and respired. Much of this organic matter is in the form of dissolved organic carbon (DOC). We investigated the activities of heterotrophic microbial communities responsible for DOC processing at three sites in the coastal Mid-Atlantic Bight/northern end of the South Atlantic Bight: near the Chesapeake Bay mouth, off Cape Hatteras, and near Cape Lookout, NC. Activities of endo- and exo-acting extracellular enzymes (polysaccharide hydrolases, and glucosidase and peptidases, respectively), and bacterial protein production were measured in surface and subsurface waters at the three stations. Total suspended material, cell counts, and particle-associated enzyme activities were also quantified. Water masses at each station showed distinct physical characteristics (temperature, salinity, total suspended material), and differed notably in rates and spectrum of enzyme activities, as well as in the fraction of particle-associated activities. Despite similar cell counts, bacterial productivity differed by a factor of ca. 30 among depths and stations. Glucosidase and peptidase activities differed by a factor of ca. 40 among stations, but the differences in enzyme activities among stations did not scale with the differences in bacterial productivity. Theoretical turnover times of dissolved carbohydrates – calculated from total dissolved carbohydrate concentrations and polysaccharide hydrolase activities – range from weeks to months, suggesting that dissolved carbohydrates may be among the components of DOC that can be advected from the Mid-Atlantic Bight into the open ocean, connecting the carbon cycle in the ocean margin with the ocean's interior.
Education and integration of midlevel health-care practitioners in obstetrics and gynecology: Experience of a training program in Washington State

The impetus for the development of the Gynecorps Training Program was the identification of medically underserved populations of women in Washington State and their need for preventive health care, the maldistribution of physicians, and the success of a pilot program for training midlevel personnel conducted in 1972 by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. The program trains community-based and -sponsored Registered Nurses and Physician's Assistants as women's health-care specialists, with the goal of delivering preventive care in obstetrics and gynecology to populations of high-risk, low-income, and/or underserved women. A summary of the training program, its curriculum, and the integration of its graduates into community health teams is presented and discussed.
Vision-Based Guidance of an Agricultural Tractor

The ordered structure of agricultural row crops can provide useful guidance information for tractor control. A description of research for coupling a machine vision system and a solid state camera to derive vehicle guidance parameters for a tractor is presented. Image segmentation is enhanced by optical filtering and controlling light intensity to the image sensor. An analysis of camera location and steering errors that can be determined from the row crops is determined by simulating the geometric relationships between the crop canopy and the image plane.
Induction of 15-lipoxygenase by interleukin-13 in human blood monocytes

15-Lipoxygenase (15-LO) catalyzes hydroperoxidation of fatty acids, a reaction of potential relevance to inflammation, membrane remodeling, and atherosclerosis. In human leukocytes, 15-lipoxygenation of arachidonic acid produces 15-(S)-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid and lipoxin A4, which suppress white cell chemotaxis, adherence, and activation, and antagonize proinflammatory leukotrienes. Interleukin (IL)-13, produced by T-helper subset 2 (TH-2) lymphocytes, specifically and potently induced 15-LO gene expression and enzyme activity in human monocytes. Among other TH-2 lymphokines, this induction of 15-LO is shared by IL-4 but not by IL-10. Interferon-gamma, a product of TH-1 lymphocytes, blocked IL-13-mediated induction of 15-LO. The induction of the anti-inflammatory 15-LO pathway by IL-13 reveals a new facet of IL-13 biology that supports its role as a cytokine with potential to down-regulate inflammatory pathways. The contrasting effects of interferon-gamma and IL-13 on 15-LO induction demonstrate mechanisms by which T-lymphocyte subsets may modulate macrophage/monocyte function in inflammation or atherosclerosis.
Quantum phase noise reduction in soliton collisions

We show that soliton collisions can reduce quantum phase noise. This effect can improve quantum nondemolition measurements, simply by changing the parameter regime in which the measurement is performed. Successful implementation favors short propagation distances, small wavelength separation between solitons, and larger probe than signal solitons
Transvection in Drosophila.

Abstract Pairing-dependent interallelic complementation was first described for the Ultrabithorax gene of the bithorax-complex in Drosophila by Lewis and cited as an example of a new phenomenon that Lewis called the “trans-vection effect.” Several different kinds of pairing-dependent gene expression have been observed in Drosophila, and it is now clear that a variety of different molecular mechanisms probably underlie the changes in gene expression that are observed after disrupting chromosome pairing. Transvection in the bithorax-complex appears to result from the ability of cis-regulatory elements to regulate transcription of the promoter on the homologous chromosome. The same phenomenon appears to be responsible for pairing-dependent interallelic complementation at numerous other genes in Drosophila. Some transvection effects are dependent on the presence of wild-type or specific mutant forms of the protein encoded by the zeste trans-regulatory gene, but other transvection effects are zeste-independent. The ease with which chromosome aberrations can disrupt transvection also varies widely among different genes.
The EPRI common information model for operation and planning

EPRI is at the forefront of developing and introducing new technologies to integrate electric utility system operation and planning. This integration has to take place across a wide geographical area for coordinating different planning and operating entities, as well as between system operation and planning within the same entity. Three "enabling technologies" are crucial in meeting this objective. They are: the EPRI common information model (CIM) and application program interface (API); the EPRI standards for data communication, e.g. the Inter-Control Center Protocol (ICCP) also known internationally as TASE.2; and EPRI advanced application software and methodologies. These three technologies are briefly outlined.
Cathodoluminescent white phosphors optimization for lighting applications

In recent years, a significant progress has been reported in the area of field emission cathodes and cathode materials for cathodoluminescent vacuum light sources. In this research, we investigated mixes of individual industrially available red, green and blue phosphors in an attempt to create a thermally stable and energy efficient phosphor mixes capable of operating for prolonged time in the conditions of the vacuum field emission light sources. Two mixtures of NICHIA made phosphors, referred to as M1 and M2 have been studied. The M1 mixture uses high efficient P-22 type green phosphor while M2 mixture uses the wide spectrum green phosphor Y/sub 2/SiO/sub 5/:Tb. As a result of our investigation, we were able to identify phosphor powder mixes capable of emitting white light under continuous dc electron beam excitation at accelerating energies of up to 8 kW. The prepared mixes exhibit stable light emission and color characteristics while maintaining the efficiency up to 40 Lm/Wt.
A comparative study on electrosprayed, layer‐by‐layer, and chemically grafted nanomembranes loaded with iron oxide nanoparticles

In this study, carboxylic acid coated iron oxide nanoparticles (CA-Fe3O4 NPs) were applied to Nylon 6 nanomembranes by three different techniques: (1) simultaneous electrospinning/electrospraying, (2) layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly, and (3) chemical grafting. These membranes have potential use toward clean-up of polluted rivers due to the multi-functional properties of the NPs. However, it is critical to evaluate particle retention and stability on fibers to reduce human health and environmental concerns. This study evaluates the NP treatment uniformity, and particle retention of the membranes based on knowledge of the preparation process. Electron microscopy and CIELAB spectrophotometry revealed that the NPs were uniformly dispersed via the electrospun/electrosprayed and grafted methods while non-uniformity was observed on LbL treated membranes. The membranes were washed in solutions of various pH levels (pH = 4, 7, 10) to investigate NP release and retention. Inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy results indicate particle release is driven by pH-dependent, bonding interactions between the NPs and the Nylon 6 fibers. Over 97% of NPs were retained on all treated membranes after washing for 60 min. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42657.
Single-Phase Flow and Heat Transport in Microchannel Heat Sinks

Microchannel heat sinks are widely regarded as being amongst the most effective heat removal techniques from space-constrained electronic devices. However, the fluid flow and heat transfer in microchannels is not fully understood. The pumping requirements for flow through microchannels are also very high and none of the micropumps in the literature are truly suitable for this application. A wide-ranging research program on microchannel heat sinks and micropumps is underway in the Electronics Cooling Laboratory at Purdue University. This article provides an overview of the research being conducted to understand fluid flow and heat transfer in microchannels and to identify pumping requirements and suitable mechanisms for pumping in microchannels.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Non-stochastic sampling error in quantal analyses for Campylobacter species on poultry products

Using primers and fluorescent probes specific for the most common food-borne Campylobacter species (Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli), we developed a multiplex, most probable number (MPN) assay using quantitative PCR (qPCR) as the determinant for binomial detection: i.e., number of p positive pathogen growth responses out of n = 6 observations each of 4 mL (V) per dilution. Working with media washes of thrice frozen-thawed chicken pieces which had been spiked with known levels of C. jejuni and C. coli, we found that about 20 % of the experiments had a significant amount of error in the form of either greater than 25 % MPN calculation error (Δe) and/or a low apparent recovery rate (R less than 1 = MPN observed ÷ CFU spiked). Assuming such errors were exacerbated by an excessively small n, we examined computer-generated MPN enumeration data from the standpoint of stochastic sampling error (Δ) and found that such binomial-based assays behaved identically to Poisson-based methods (e.g., counting data) except that fewer technical replicates (n) appeared to be required for the same number of cells per test volume (μ). This result implies that the qPCR detection-based MPN protocol discussed herein should accurately enumerate a test population with a μ ≥ 1 using n = 6 observations per dilution. For our protocol, this equates to ≥ 8 cells per 400–500 g of sampled product. Based on this analysis, the error rate we saw in spiked experiments (where μ > > 1) implied a non-stochastic source. In other experiments we present evidence that this source was, at least in part, related to the cell concentration step (i.e., centrifugation). We also demonstrate that the error rate lessened (from ∼38 % to ∼13 %) at lower Campylobacter levels (μ ≤ 40) as would most likely exist in nature. Using this protocol, we were able to quantify 14 to 1,226 MPN per 450 g of naturally contaminated chicken for skinless pieces and 11 to 244 MPN per 450 g for wings, breasts, legs, and thighs (skin on) whereupon about 50 % of the 29 samples tested negative for both species. Four of these chicken wash samples did have substantially lower Campylobacter levels (1 to 6 MPN per 450 g) which might be better enumerated using a larger n. However, we established that the limit of quantification of this protocol diminishes for n > 6 because one is ever more diluting the sample, or lessening V, to achieve the requisite n.
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in cancer: multiple roles in proliferation and inhibition of apoptosis

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) constitute a heterogeneous family of ion channels that mediate fast synaptic transmission in neurons. They have also been found on non-neuronal cells such as bronchial epithelium and keratinocytes, underscoring the idea that they have functions well beyond neurotransmission. Components of cigarette smoke, including nicotine and NNK [4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone], are agonists of nAChRs. Given the association of tobacco use with several diseases, the non-neuronal nAChR signaling pathway has considerable implications for cancer and cardiovascular disease. Recent studies have shown that α7 is the main nAChR subunit that mediates the proliferative effects of nicotine in cancer cells. As a result, α7 nAChR might be a valuable molecular target for therapy of cancers such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. Future studies involving the design of nAChR antagonists with improved selectivity might identify novel strategies for the treatment of tobacco-related cancers. Here we review the cellular roles of non-neuronal nAChRs, including regulation of cell proliferation, angiogenesis, apoptosis, migration, invasion and secretion.
Teaching about the Human Side of Corporate Restructuring: A Three-Stage Role-Play

This article introduces a three-stage role-play that involves a team of engineering managers and their boss in an engineering workstations company that is undergoing downsizing. The three stages occur just after financial losses are reported for the company, 3 weeks after the reported losses, and 4 months after the losses. Issues highlighted include thoughts and feelings experienced by people working for a company that is undergoing financial losses and layoffs, concerns of those laid off and survivors, and managing in a company after downsizing.
Bad Eggs, Learning-by-doing, and the Choice of Technology

We model long-run economic development through technology adoption under scientific uncertainty about environmental effects. There are four possible long-run equilibria in a socially planned economy: ‘High-growth’, adopt rapidly, but abandon damaging technologies once revealed (DDT, CFCs); ‘Cautious’, brake the introduction of new technologies to avoid mistakes (genetically modified organisms); ‘No-growth’, halt technological progress to preserve secondary knowledge; and ‘Collapse’, adopt rapidly without ever abandoning damaging technologies. In the base parameterization a short-sighted social planner chooses the cautious strategy. A far-sighted planner chooses the high-growth strategy, unless damages are irreversible in which case the cautious strategy again dominates. Regulatory options in the market economy are investigated. Pollution taxes do not affect the firm’s level of precaution if they can only be applied after the adopting firm has reaped the benefits; however, they do encourage the abandonment of damaging technologies. Liability rules do affect precaution, but may lead to excessive caution, or even a no-growth trap.
Cure analysis of printed wiring boards containing reactive adhesive layers

This report presents a method for analyzing the cure of multilayer printed-circuit (PC) boards containing chemically reactive adhesive inner layers. The cure kinetics of the adhesive are first measured by differential scanning calorimetry, using the method of Freeman and Carroll to obtain the numerical kinetic parameters. These parameters are then used in a finite-element model of the PC board that simultaneously solves the heat- and species-transfer equations. It is then possible to predict the temperature and extent of reaction at any time and position within the laminate, enabling the curing program to be optimized. 19 refs., 6 figs.
Anatomical relationships of the anterior blood vessels to the lower lumbar intervertebral discs: analysis based on magnetic resonance imaging of patients in the prone position

Background: Intra-abdominal vascular injuries are rare during posterior lumbar spinal surgery, but they can result in major morbidity or mortality when they do occur. We are aware of no prior studies that have used prone patient positioning during magnetic resonance imaging for the purpose of characterizing the retroperitoneal iliac vasculature with respect to the intervertebral disc. The purpose of this study was to define the vascular anatomy adjacent to the lower lumbar spine with use of supine and prone magnetic resonance imaging. Methods: A prospective observational study included thirty patients without spinal abnormality who underwent supine and prone magnetic resonance imaging without abdominal compression. The spinal levels of the aortic bifurcation and confluence of the common iliac veins were identified. The proximity of the anterior iliac vessels to the anterior and posterior aspects of the anulus fibrosus in sagittal and coronal planes was measured by two observers, and interobserver reliability was calculated. Results: The aortic bifurcation and confluence of the common iliac veins were most commonly at the level of the L4 vertebral body and migrated cranially with prone positioning. The common iliac vessels were closer to the anterior aspect of the intervertebral disc and to the midline at L4-L5 as compared with L5-S1, consistent with the bifurcation at the L4 vertebral body. Prone positioning resulted in greater distances between the disc and iliac vessels at L4-L5 and L5-S1 by an average of 3 mm. The position of the anterior aspect of the anulus with respect to each iliac vessel demonstrated substantial variation between subjects. The intraclass correlation coefficient for measurement of vessel position exceeded 0.9, demonstrating excellent interobserver reliability. Conclusions: This study confirmed the L4 level of the aortic bifurcation and iliac vein coalescence but also demonstrated substantial mobility of the great vessels with positioning. Supine magnetic resonance imaging will underestimate the proximity of the vessels to the intervertebral disc. Large interindividual variation in the location of vasculature was noted, emphasizing the importance of careful study of the location of the retroperitoneal vessels on a case-by-case basis. Clinical Relevance: Anatomic relationships between vessels and intervertebral discs on supine magnetic resonance imaging may differ from relationships during surgery with the patient in a prone position.
Production of prothrombin fragment 1-44 with acutin and some effects on thrombin generation.

Abstract The thrombin-like enzyme from Agkistrodon acutus snake venom is called acutin. It cleaves three peptide bonds in bovine prothrombin; namely, Lys 44 -Tyr 45 ; Arg 156 -Ser 157 , and Arg 274 -IIe 275 . By digesting prothrombin fragment I with acutin, peptides 1–44 and 45–156 were obtained and purified. Peptide 1–44 contains all ten γ-carboxyglutamic acid residues of prothrombin. Working with the prothrombinase system, thrombin generation was inhibited by peptide 1–44 when the substrate was prothrombin, accelerated when the substrate was prethrombin 1, and there was no effect with prethrombin 2 even if peptide 45–156 and prothrombin fragment 2 were also present. When peptide 1–44 was covalently bound as in prothrombin fragment 1 it did function with fragment 2 in prethrombin 2 activation. Peptide 45–156 thus serves a function in thrombin generation.
SOMATOMEDIN-C/INSULIN-LIKE GROWTH FACTORS I (Sm-C/IGF-I) AND IGF-II mRNAs DURING LUNG DEVELOPMENT IN THE RAT

Sm-C/IGF-I and IGF-II are peptide mitogens that are synthesized in multiple organs and are implicated in regulation of organ growth. To investigate the ontogeny of their synthesis during lung development, Northern and dot blot hybridizations were performed on poly(A+)RNAs from lungs of fetal rats at 16, 17, 19, and 21 days gestation and postnatally at 0, 1, 2, 3-4, 6-7, 10, 14, 21, 28 and >50 days. A 32P-labelled rat Sm-C/IGF-I genomic fragment, a mouse Sm-C/IGF-I cDNA, and a human IGF-II cDNA were used as probes. These analyses revealed that the abundance of total Sm-C/IGF-I mRNA is 1.5 to 2.5-fold higher in lungs of fetal than postnatal animals and that multiple Sm-C/IGF-I mRNA species of estimated sizes 7.5, 4.7, 1.7 and 1.2 kb are observed at every age examined. For IGF-II, a high abundance of total hybridizing mRNA is found in fetal lung; it rapidly declines in the first week after birth to a plateau that is 20-fold less than in the fetus. Multiple lung IGF-II mRNAs of 4.7, 3.9, 2.2, 1.75 and 1.2 kb are observed. In the fetal and immediate postnatal periods, the 4.7 and 3.9 kb mRNAs are predominant. By one week postnatally, the 2.2kb mRNA is increased in relative abundance and the 1.2 kb mRNA is not detected. These data suggest synthesis of Sm-C/IGF-I and IGF-II throughout lung organogenesis. The abundance of mRNA for each peptide is developmentally regulated, and for IGF-II the developmental stage may determine the mRNA species expressed.
Identification of a family of muscarinic acetylcholine receptor genes

Complementary DNAs for three different muscarinic acetylcholine receptors were isolated from a rat cerebral cortex library, and the cloned receptors were expressed in mammalian cells. Analysis of human and rat genomic clones indicates that there are at least four functional muscarinic receptor genes and that these genes lack introns in the coding sequence. This gene family provides a new basis for evaluating the diversity of muscarinic mechanisms in the nervous system.
Amantadine and rimantadine prophylaxis of influenza A in nursing homes. A tolerability perspective.

Amantadine and rimantadine are recommended for the treatment and prophylaxis of influenza A infections, and constitute an integral component of influenza control measures in the nursing home setting. However, optimal use necessitates a thorough understanding of the toxicity profiles of these agents, as well as strategies to reduce the risk of adverse reactions. Adverse reactions of these compounds predominantly involve the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system (CNS), including hyperexcitability, slurred speech, tremors, insomnia, dizziness, mood disturbance, ataxia, psychosis and fatigue. Based on data from comparative trials, rimantadine appears to exhibit a lesser propensity to cause adverse CNS reactions than amantadine, but a similar propensity to cause adverse gastrointestinal reactions. Factors enhancing the risk of adverse reactions to these agents include reduced renal function (especially for amantadine), drug-drug interactions with cationic drugs, which inhibit amantadine renal tubular secretion (e.g. trimethoprim, triamterene, and possibly cimetidine and procainamide), elevated peak and trough plasma concentrations, and a history of seizures. Careful attention to published dosage adjustment guidelines for these compounds, avoidance of interacting drugs and avoiding these agents in patients with a history of seizures may be the best means to reduce the risk of toxicity in elderly patients. Rimantadine may have an advantage over amantadine in the elderly population in light of its lesser propensity to cause adverse reactions, less complex dosage adjustment in the case of renal impairment and probable lack of drug-drug interaction potential with cationic drugs.
Proteolytic Activity of Brevibacterium linens During Ripening of Trappist-Type Cheese

Abstract The surface flora consisting of yeasts and Brevibacterium linens , present during ripening of Trappist-type cheese, was studied for its proteolytic capabilities. Analyses of surface samples of cheese using an amino acid analyzer provided data indicating the elaboration of proteolytic enzyme systems by both the yeasts and B. linens . The control, including both yeasts and B. linens, elaborated the more active enzyme system than did B. linens alone.
Brindled mottled mouse: morphological changes of brain and visceral organs in hemizygous males following copper supplementation.

Intraperitoneal injections of cupric chloride prevent neuronal degeneration in the hemizygous brindled mottle mouse, MO br/Y, a murine model of kinky hair syndrome (KHS) in humans. At 6-9 months after two i.p. injections, the brain of MO br/Y revealed slightly increased amounts of lipofuscin pigments in the cerebral cortical neurons, cytoplasmic inclusions in the thalamic neurons, and axonal spheroid formation in the tuber cinereum, cerebellum and brain stem. Increased numbers of mitoses, bizarre hyperchromatic giant nuclei, and numerous clear vacuoles were frequently seen in the proximal renal tubular epithelium. Numerous myelin figures were conspicuous features in these epithelial cells at ultrastructural level. Such changes were not found in the littermate controls but in the heterozygous brindled mottled mouse, MO br/ +, identical changes were noted in equal or even higher frequency. These observations suggest that cupric chloride injections effectively modify the expression of the genetic defect in MO br/ Y.
A Prior and Data Validation and Adjustment Scheme for Bayesian Reliability Analysis in Engineering Design

Bayesian reliability analysis (BRA) technique has been actively used in reliability assessment for engineered systems. However, there are two key controversies surrounding the BRA, that is, the reasonableness of the prior, and the consistency among all data sets. These issues have been debated in Bayesian analysis for many years, and as we observed, they have not been resolved satisfactorily. These controversies have seriously hindered the applications of BRA as a useful reliability analysis tool to support engineering design. In this paper, a Bayesian reliability analysis methodology with a prior and data validation and adjustment scheme (PDVAS) is developed to address these issues. In order to do that, a consistency measure is defined first that judges the level of consistency among all data sets including the prior. The consistency measure is then used to adjust either the prior or the data or both to the extent that the prior and the data are statistically consistent. This prior and data validation and adjustment scheme is developed for Binomial sampling with Beta prior, called Beta-Binomial Bayesian model. The properties of the scheme are presented and discussed. Various forms of the adjustment formulas are shown and a selection framework of a specific formula, based on engineering design and analysis knowledge, is established. Several illustrative examples are presented which show the reasonableness, effectiveness and usefulness of PDVAS. General discussion of the scheme is offered to enhance the Bayesian Reliability Analysis in engineering design for reliability assessment.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
The localization of glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase in Escherichia coli.

Starved cells ofEscherichia coli are dependent on an exogenous source of energy. It was of interest to ask whether compounds that are commonly used to supply energy must themselves be transported or whether they can be utilized on the outer portion of the cytoplasmic membrane. The utilization of glycerol-3-phosphate an energy source is totally dependent on the membrane-bound glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase. In the present report glycerol-3-phosphate was used as the energy source for uptake of amino acids. A mutant was constructed which is unable to transport this ester and the starved mutant could not drive the uptake of glutamine with glycerol-3-phosphate. It is concluded that the enzyme is located on the internal surface of the membrane in intactE. coli cells. Further evidence was obtained by showing that no glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase activity could be measured in either intact cells or spheroplasts using ferricyanide as electron acceptor, due to its impermeability. The activity could be measured after destruction of the membrane permeability barrier by toluenization. With membrane vesicles prepared according to Kaback's procedure nearly half of the dehydrogenase activity was accessible to ferricyanide as well as to impermeable competitive inhibitors of the enzyme. Partial inversion during preparation of vesicles is the most probable explanation for the results.
Observations of invariant structures in the chaotic response of lorenz and other systems

A phase plane invariant of the Lorenz and other systems, undergoing chaos, has been presented. Numerical experiments show that this invariant is independent of the initial conditions and depends on the structure and parameters of the chaotic systems. There are some potential applications of this result to the issues of system identification, reconstruction of the chaotic systems and chaotic cryptography.
Automated neurosurgical video segmentation and retrieval system

Medical video repositories play important roles for many health-related issues such as medical imaging, medical research and education, medical diagnostics and training of medical professionals. Due to the increasing availability of the digital video data, indexing, annotating and the retrieval of the information are crucial. Since performing these processes are both computationally expensive and time consuming, automated systems are needed. In this paper, we present a medical video segmentation and retrieval research initiative. We describe the key components of the system including video segmentation engine, image retrieval engine and image quality assessment module. The aim of this research is to provide an online tool for indexing, browsing and retrieving the neurosurgical videotapes. This tool will allow people to retrieve the specific information in a long video tape they are interested in instead of looking through the entire content.
Patterns of community relationship: nurses, non-governmental organizations and internally displaced persons

Background: Internally displaced persons (IDPs) are one of the largest at-risk populations in the world. Nurses provide health services to IDPs as staff of non-governmental organizations (NGO). IDPs are also employed to deliver NGO services. The way that NGOs and field staff (nurses and others) interact with employed IDPs can enhance or diminish IDP quality of life. Aim: This report describes patterns of relationships in a community formed by an American NGO, its field staff and IDPs as they worked together in a refugee camp at the Thai-Cambodian border over 13 years. Methods: This qualitative case study describes relational patterns from the NGO perspective. Content analysis was used to process data from in-depth interviews with organizational leaders (n = 4) and organizational documents (n = 234). Findings: A health care training and service mission, carried out between an NGO, its field staff and IDPs, was based on a philosophy that turned programme activity and authority over to IDP staff. Over 400 IDPs, assisted by 235 field staff, delivered effective health care to 85 000 people over 13 years. Conclusions: Work-centred relationships between NGOs, field staff and IDPs are significant; they can be consciously created to promote effective, autonomous IDP management of health care.
Chronic intraventricular administration of cholecystokinin octapeptide (CCK-8) suppresses feeding in rats.

Cholecystokinin octapeptide (CCK-8) is known to suppress feeding in sheep, pigs, golden hamsters and rats following acute intracerebriventricular (i.c.v.) injection. In this study, we report the effects of chronically administered i.c.v. CCK-8 on long-term food intake in rats. After baseline food intake was established over a period of 3 days, rats were implanted with Alzet osmotic minipumps, which delivered 1.0 μl/h. Three groups of animals were prepared which received saline (vehicle) or CCK-8 at 12.25 μg/day (low dose) or CCK-8 at 122.5 μg/day (high dose). Surgical preparation of the animals with the intraventricular cannula and the osmotic minipump resulted in an initial reduction in food consumption in all groups. In the saline group daily food consumption returned to presurgery values by day 4. Similar results were observed with the low dose of CCK-8. In contrast, in animals receiving the high concentrations of CCK-8, the initial fall in feeding was more prominent and though it rose during the 7-day infusion interval, it remained statistically below control during this period. After termination of the infusion, daily food consumption rose to normal levels during the next 3 days. For comparison, the cumulative difference between daily food consumption over the period of 8 days during infusion and pre-infusion control was 39.9 ± 10.0 g/24 h in the saline group. In CCK-8-infused animals, food consumption after pump implantation was reduced by an integrated value of 35.5 ± 5.0 g/24 h at low dose and 117.4 ± 20.2 g/24 h at high dose. Thus, by all indices, i.c.v. infusion of CCK-8 at high dose, but not at low dose resulted in a significant reduction of food intake as compared ti saline (P < 0.05). Water intake was not not altered by the infusion of CCK-8 at low or high dose vs saline.
Prevalence of nurse smokers and variables identified with successful and unsuccessful smoking cessation

A mailed survey of 823 randomly selected registered nurses, constituting an 82% return rate, was conducted to determine the prevalence and quit rate of smoking related behaviors. Variables identified with successful quitters and continuing smokers also were investigated. The findings revealed that nurses have a decreased proportion of current smokers, an increased proportion of never smokers, and an increased quit smoking rate. The smoking cessation method used most frequently by successful quitters was "cold turkey".
Capsule endoscopy had low sensitivity for detecting colonic lesions and high specificity for large lesions

Source Citation Van Gossum A, Navas MM, Fernandez-Urien I, et al. Capsule endoscopy versus colonoscopy for the detection of polyps and cancer. N Engl J Med. 2009;361:264−70. 19605831
Prophylactic use of antibiotics for nonlaboring patients undergoing cesarean delivery with intact membranes: A meta-analysis

Abstract Objective: We performed a meta-analysis to examine the role of antibiotic prophylaxis in preventing postoperative infections among nonlaboring women undergoing cesarean delivery with intact membranes. Study Design: A computerized literature search was performed with MEDLINE. Studies were included if they contained data on patients undergoing cesarean delivery in the absence of labor and ruptured membranes. Only randomized trials with a placebo control group were included. Results: Seven studies were found. Use of antibiotics decreased the risk of all infectious outcomes reported. When the results of 4 studies were pooled, prophylactic antibiotic use was associated with a significant reduction in postoperative fever (relative risk, 0.25; 95% confidence interval, 0.14-0.44). A similar reduction was noted for endometritis in 4 studies (relative risk, 0.05; 95% confidence interval, 0.01-0.38). Two studies reported on wound infection and showed a trend toward a protective effect (relative risk, 0.59; 95% confidence interval, 0.24-1.45). Conclusion: The prophylactic use of antibiotics reduces the risk of postoperative infectious complications after cesarean delivery even in the population at lowest risk. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2001;184:656-61.)
NUTRITION OF THE HOST AND NATURAL RESISTANCE TO INFECTION : I. THE EFFECT OF DIET ON THE RESPONSE OF SEVERAL GENOTYPES OF MUS MUSCULUS TO SALMONELLA ENTERITIDIS INFECTION

1. A diet of whole wheat and whole dried milk has been shown to promote a higher survival rate, among W-Swiss mice subjected to S. enteritidis infection, than that promoted by a "synthetic" diet. 2. The demonstration of this ability of diet to condition natural resistance has been found to depend upon the genetic constitution of the mice employed. The demonstration has been possible in W-Swiss mice, a strain only moderately inbred and retaining a degree of genetic variability. The demonstration has not been possible in three highly inbred strains of mice selected so that they differed predictably from one another in natural resistance. 3. The nutritional factors involved are present in whole wheat and are absent or negligible in dried whole milk. Their nature has not yet been determined.
Imagining modernity: Sexuality, policy and social change in Mexico

Mexico is the site of significant recent change in relation to sexuality-related attitudes and policies. Based in part on ethnographic data collected in Guadalajara during the mid-1990s, in this article the author discusses urban Mexicans’ perceptions of the need for such changes. At a broader level, the article analyzes the processes leading to 3 significant new policies enacted since 2005: (a) a national antihomophobia campaign that derived from a federal antidiscrimination law, (b) a civil unions law in Mexico City that includes gay and lesbian couples, and (c) the decriminalization of early-term abortion in Mexico City. This analysis considers the roles of the Mexican state, the Catholic church, the mass media, and liberal and conservative social actors in shaping public opinion and policy. The author argues that sexuality-related changes acquire strong symbolic meaning as indicators of Mexico’s status as modern or, alternatively, of the maintenance of so-called Mexican traditions.
Effects of qigong on cardiorespiratory changes: a preliminary study.

Qigong, a special form of breathing exercise, was investigated to examine its effect on cardiorespiratory changes. Ten volunteers (five males and five females) participated in a 20-minute group instructional session for 10 consecutive days before testing of its treatment effects. The testing protocol followed a C1-T-C2 design, where C1, T, and C2 represented the first, treatment, and second control period, respectively. Each period consisted of a 5-minute interval, and thus each testing session consisted of 15 minutes. The results indicated there were no statistically significant differences (p>O.05) in heart rate or tidal volume for the three 5-minute periods. There was a significant decrease (p<0.05) in respiratory exchange ratio between T and C2. A significant increase in ventilatory efficiency for carbon dioxide production was found between C1 and T. Statistically significant differences (p<O.05) were found in the volume of oxygen consumed and carbon dioxide produced, frequency of breath, expired ventilation, and ventilatory efficiency for oxygen produced between the T and the two control periods. This preliminary study of Qigong demonstrates that the subjects were able to learn the technique in a short period of time. The data also suggest that, with an improvement of nearly 20% in ventilatory efficiency for oxygen uptake and carbon dioxide production, this technique may have useful therapeutic value.
RETINOL‐BINDING PROTEIN METABOLISM IN LIVER CELLS IN VIVO AND IN VITRO*

Immunoreactive retinol-binding proteins (RBP) were isolated and partially characterized from the liver microsomes of normal rats. These studies were undertaken to explore the question of whether microsomal RBP in part represents an intrahepatic precursor that is converted to plasma RBP during the process of secretion. If liver microsomal RBP were significantly composed of a ''pro-RBP'' precursor, then the identification and characterization of the precursor would provide useful information on the molecular events that occur during the process of RBP secretion. These events could then be studied directly, as potential regulatory steps in the overall process of RBP secretion.
Spatial and temporal variability of in-stream water quality parameter influence on dissolved oxygen and nitrate within a regional stream network

Abstract Maintaining elevated aqueous concentrations of dissolved oxygen (DO) and decreased concentrations of nitrate (NO 3 ) within stream environments is critical to sustaining aquatic life and the overall environmental health of a river system. Identifying system processes and system inputs that govern in-stream concentrations of DO and NO 3 is paramount to achieving satisfactory concentrations or implementing efficient remediation methods. As these processes and inputs often depend on a multitude of climatic, environmental, and anthropogenic factors, it is essential to determine the spatio-temporal variability in their control of DO and NO 3 . In this study, a sensitivity analysis is applied to a regional-scale stream system of the Lower Arkansas River Basin in southeastern Colorado using a coupled QUAL2E-OTIS model to investigate the factors that govern DO and NO 3 in space and time. Using the revised Morris scheme, a total of 34 model input factors (boundary conditions, flow and mass inputs, model parameters) are included in the analysis. Besides identifying the model input factors that govern DO and NO 3 concentrations globally, the methodology also ascertains the influence of these factors according to location within the regional stream network and to season of the year. Results show that upstream solute concentrations, algal processes, channel roughness, groundwater discharge and solute mass loadings to the stream, and oxygen reaeration are the most influential processes and parameters in determining DO and NO 3 concentrations. Many processes (algal growth and respiration, chemical kinetic reactions) have a time-varying influence due to seasonal changes in water temperature and solar radiation. Other processes (groundwater discharge and solute mass loading) are of moderate influence in the Arkansas River but of very strong influence in the tributaries. These results not only identify parameters and processes that should be targeted during field data collection and model calibration, but also highlight the possibility of implementing efficient remediation strategies that target processes at different locations and at different times of the year.
In Vivo Administration of an Inflammatory Stimulant can Trigger Loss of Biomechanical and Biochemical Properties of the Intervertebral Disc

Human intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is accompanied by chronic inflammation, particularly seen in the elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α [1–3]. Animal models of disc degeneration (DD) using stab or laceration of the disc generally reproduce morphological changes of IVD degeneration. However, inflammatory changes in these models are thought to be acute and transient post injury [4–6]. The goal of this study is to explore the effect of direct inflammatory stimulation of the IVD on disc biochemical and biomechanical properties in vivo. We utilize lipopolysaccharide (LPS), an inflammatory stimulant that provokes secretion of multiple cytokines by disc cells. We have previously shown that direct injection of LPS into the disc results in significantly higher protein levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, HMGB-1 and MIF vs. sham injection up to 7 days post administration [7]. The goal of this study is to explore the dose-dependent response of this inflammatory stimulation on the biochemical and biomechanical properties of IVD in vivo. We hypothesize that LPS stimulation mimics the pathophysiology of DD by triggering a group of cytokines that are associated with IVD degeneration. LPS is administered using micro needles (<10% disc height) in order to minimize the potential disruption by needle injection.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Subnanometer-scale chemistry and structure of α-iron/molybdenum nitride heterophase interfaces

The local chemistry and structure of α-iron/molybdenum nitride heterophase interfaces is studied on a subnanometer scale by atom-probe field-ion microscopy (APFIM), three-dimensional atom-probe microscopy (3DAPM) and both conventional transmission electron microscopy (CTEM) and highresolution electron microscopy (HREM). Molybdenum nitride precipitates are generated by annealing Fe-2 at. pct Mo-X, where X=0.4 at. pct Sb or 0.5 at. pct Sn, at 550 °C or 600 °C, in an ammonia/hydrogen mixture. Internal nitridation at 550 °C produces thin, coherent platelet-shaped molybdenum nitride precipitates. Nitridation at 600 °C generates a much coarser structure with semicoherent thick plate-shaped and spheroidal precipitates in addition to the thin-platelet structure. The APFIM and 3DAPM analyses of the heterophase interfaces show substantial segregation of the solute species Sn and Sb only at the coarse precipitates, with Gibbsian interfacial excesses of up to 7±3 nm−2, whereas the broad faces of the thin platelets have no detectable segregation. The TEM and HREM analyses show that the coarse precipitates are semicoherent, whereas the thin platelets are either coherent or have much fewer misfit dislocations than geometrically necessary. This demonstrates that Sn and Sb segregation is related to the presence of misfit dislocations at the interfaces of the coarse precipitates.