cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Trimanual Anterior Vitrectomy: A Novel Technique to Manage Vitreous Loss during Phacoemulsification

We report 2 cases illustrating the use of a new technique to manage vitreous loss during phacoemulsification, which we have termed ‘trimanual’ anterior vitrectomy. In each case, after recognizing posterior capsule tear, the remaining nuclear pieces were removed with low-parameter phacoemulsification. The remaining cortical material was then removed using bimanual irrigation and aspiration handpieces while the assistant surgeon inserted the vitrectomy probe through a separate 1-mm limbal incision. The vitrectomy probe was held below the plane of the posterior capsule tear, used to cut the vitreous and to provide a mechanical blockade to potentially descending lens material. While this technique involves the potentially awkward simultaneous use of 3 intraocular instruments, we believe that there are several advantages over standard bimanual anterior vitrectomy. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Rules and reason in the forced retirement of commercial airline pilots at age 60

Abstract In this salute to Tom Singleton, a logic to discuss a mandatory retirement age is suggested. Mandatory retirement in airline pilots is examined as a framework for the discussion. In the thirty-five years since the age 60 mandatory retirement age for commercial airline pilots was adopted by the Federal Aviation Administration, many changes have occurred in life expectancy, mortality and morbidity rates, economic conditions, and in the nature of flying itself that impact upon that decision. It is suggested that the policymakers look at the following three general areas as criteria when adjusting the age of mandatory retirement: actual job performance, information processing capacity and physical capacity. Information processing and physical capacity provide information about the necessary, but not sufficient conditions that must be met in order to fly an aircraft. Actual job performance is the final measure of a pilot's ability to fly at any age.
The image of education in primetime network television series 1948‐1988

Analysis of primetime television series from 1948 to 1988 found that series centering on education are rare and transient. The world of television education, while presented positively, is less diverse in settings, activities and role depictions than the world of actual education. Television's teachers are dedicated, work with interested students in urban high schools or colleges, and often have conflicts with cranky or inept administrators. White males far outnumber females and minorities in most occupational roles. Themes about non‐traditional educators, family life of students and teachers, and educational problems are common.
THE EFFECT OF pH, POLYPHOSPHATES AND DIFFERENT SALTS ON WATER RETENTION PROPERTIES OF GROUND TROUT MUSCLE

The water binding potential (WBP) and expressible moisture (EM) curves of ground rainbow trout white muscle versus pH are different, particularly in the region from pH 5.0 to 7.0. The effect of different salts such as CaCl2, Mg Cl2, NaCl, Nal and Na2SO4 on WBP suggests that for the same salts, cations cause a smaller change than anions. On the other hand, the EM measurements suggest that cations have a greater effect on this measurement than anions. In the case of WBP, the effect of tripolyphosphate and pyrophosphate can be attributed solely to their effect on pH. These results indicate the differences between the two methods and suggest that they measure different components of the water retention properties of a complex system, and thus water holding capacity measurements must be interpreted with care.
Update on second primary malignancies in multiple myeloma: a focused review

The last decade has seen significant advances in the management of patients with multiple myeloma (MM). With increasingly effective therapies, MM patients are living longer. With improvements in survival, long-term complications including second primary malignancies are becoming new challenges in providing optimal care for MM patients. Three randomized studies have demonstrated possible clinical benefit with maintenance lenalidomide for patients with MM. These same studies have also demonstrated an increased risk of second primary malignancies. In this review, we will update on the current information regarding mechanisms and risk of developing second primary malignancies with a particular focus on disease- and treatment-related factors.
A uniform metal distribution in the intergalactic medium of the Perseus cluster of galaxies.

A uniform iron abundance in the intracluster gas of the Perseus cluster suggests that the metal enrichment of the intergalactic medium occurred before the cluster formed, probably more than ten billion years ago, rather than after the cluster formed. Most of the metals (elements heavier than helium) produced by stars in the member galaxies of clusters are found in the hot, X-ray-emitting gas between the galaxies. If the metals are uniformly distributed, then they likely were put in place early in the cluster's history. The alternative, where metals appear after cluster formation, is expected to introduce significant spatial variation of metallicity. To test the early enrichment model by eliminating the effects of potential inhomogeneities, it is necessary to measure abundances out to large radii along multiple directions in clusters. Norbert Werner et al. have done just that on a data set of 86 measurements in the Perseus cluster. They find an iron abundance of ZFe = 0.306, which is remarkably uniform as a function of radius and azimuth right to the edge of the cluster. This distribution requires that most of the metal enrichment of the intergalactic medium occurred during the period of maximal star formation and black hole activity, more than 10 billion years ago. Most of the metals (elements heavier than helium) produced by stars in the member galaxies of clusters currently reside within the hot, X-ray-emitting intra-cluster gas. Observations of X-ray line emission from this intergalactic medium have suggested a relatively small cluster-to-cluster scatter outside the cluster centres1,2 and enrichment with iron out to large radii3,4,5, leading to the idea that the metal enrichment occurred early in the history of the Universe3. Models with early enrichment predict a uniform metal distribution at large radii in clusters, whereas those with late-time enrichment6,7 are expected to introduce significant spatial variations of the metallicity. To discriminate clearly between these competing models, it is essential to test for potential inhomogeneities by measuring the abundances out to large radii along multiple directions in clusters, which has not hitherto been done. Here we report a remarkably uniform iron abundance, as a function of radius and azimuth, that is statistically consistent with a constant value of ZFe = 0.306 ± 0.012 in solar units out to the edge of the nearby Perseus cluster. This homogeneous distribution requires that most of the metal enrichment of the intergalactic medium occurred before the cluster formed, probably more than ten billion years ago, during the period of maximal star formation and black hole activity.
Levetiracetam has a time- and stimulation-dependent effect on synaptic transmission.

We recently reported that rodent hippocampal slices incubated with levetiracetam for 3 h had altered responses to repetitive stimulation and reduced neurotransmitter release. However, our experiments failed to determine the actual time course of diminished transmission in individual slices followed over time. We have now been able to record from the same slices for up to 3 h to determine the latency of the levetiracetam effect after the onset of exposure. Within 30 min of levetiracetam exposure, the later field potentials of a burst were reduced. Between 60 and 180 min the relative size of later field potentials remained stable. Similar time-dependent reductions were not seen in control slices or in slices exposed to the inactive levetiracetam isomer UCB L060. These new results establish a clear time dependence of the levetiracetam effect, even in vitro, and are best explained by levetiracetam acting within neurons to alter synaptic vesicle release.
Privacy Disclosure from Wearable Devices

In recent years, wearable devices have seen an explosive growth of popularity and a rapid enhancement of functionalities. Current off-the-shelf wearable devices offer pack sensors such as pedometer, gyroscope, accelerometer, altimeter, compass, GPS, and heart rate monitor. These sensors work together to quietly monitor various aspects of a user's daily life, enabling a wide spectrum of health- and social-related applications. Nevertheless, the data collected by such sensors, even in their aggregated form, may cause significant privacy concerns if shared with third-party applications and/or a user's social connections (as many wearable platforms now support). This paper studies a novel problem of the potential inference of sensitive user behavior from seemingly insensitive sensor outputs. Specifically, we examine whether it is possible to infer the behavioral sequence of a user such as moving from one place to another, visiting a coffee shop, grocery shopping, etc., based on the outputs of pedometer sensors (aggregated over certain time intervals, e.g., 1 minute). We demonstrate through real-world experiments that it is often possible to infer such behavior with a high success probability, raising privacy concerns on the sharing of such information as currently supported by various wearable devices.
Short research paper: An updated look at depressive symptoms and job satisfaction in first‐year women teachers

This report updates a longitudinal study (Schonfeld, 1992) of the effects of working conditions on newly appointed women teachers. The update included a later graduating cohort and additional outcome measures. Moreover, women who were not fully exposed to work stressors (e.g. part-time work, change of schools) were now excluded from the analyses. Among the 184 teachers, work environment measures were more highly correlated with future depressive symptoms, self-esteem, job satisfaction, and motivation to teach than with pre-employment counterparts of the outcomes. Regression analyses underlined the effects of the work environment on each outcome. Serious problems with depressive symptoms and job satisfaction among teachers exposed to the most adverse work environments were found.
Coarsening of γ (Ni–Al solid solution) precipitates in a γ′ (Ni3Al) matrix; a striking contrast in behavior from normal γ/γ′ alloys

Abstract Coarsening of γ precipitates in a γ′ (Ni3Al) matrix depends strongly on volume fraction, in dramatic contrast with coarsening of γ′ precipitates. Coalescence of γ precipitates is easy, unlike the resistance to coalescence of γ′ precipitates. We regard this as indirect proof that anti-phase relationships among γ′ precipitates inhibit coalescence.
Gender and Racial Diversification of State Supreme Courts

Abstract This study presents an updated and more accurate composite profile of state supreme court justices than currently exists. Important gender and racial diversification has taken place in the two decades since the most frequently cited studies of the background characteristics of justices. This study demonstrates that this increased diversification has contributed to greater diversity in judicial background characteristics such as age, localism, career patterns and method of judicial selection. This diversity in background is most pronounced among women and African-American justices, and suggests that the definition of the eligible pool has been broadened in many states since the early eighties.
Cleavage delamination in impact tested warm-rolled steel

Cleavage delaminations or separations have been observed on fracture surfaces of impact specimens made from rolled steel pipe and plate products. These delaminations appear as cleavage cracks lying parallel to the plane of rolling. Depending primarily on the test temperature and extent of rolling, four fracture modes have been reported: ductile, transgranular, ductile with cleavage delaminations, and transgranular with cleavage delaminations. A model is proposed which accounts semiquantitatively for rolling plane weakening with respect to test temperature, rolling strain, and rolling temperature. The four observed fracture modes and the manner of transition from one to another are delineated by the model.
A framework for computer-assisted travel counseling

Abstract This paper presents a suggested organizational framework for important design issues related to computer-assisted travel counseling (CATC). It presents an alternative methodological approach to the implementation of a counseling system which addresses several issues that have received little attention in the literature. The approach demonstrated is based upon multiple criteria decision-making methodologies. Mathematical formulations for problems related to package trip selection are presented, and solution performance is demonstrated in a prototype decision support system. The results indicate that this approach provides improvements in both performance and extensibility over the CATC systems hitherto described in the literature.
Ablation of incessant left atrial tachycardia without fluoroscopy in a pregnant woman.

Ablation Without Fluoroscopy in Pregnancy. Background: Management of symptomatic atrial arrhythmia in pregnancy remains a challenge. In this case report, a pregnant woman with incessant tachycardia underwent successful left atrial ablation. The entire procedure was performed without fluoroscopy. Methods and Results: A 20-year-old woman, 27 weeks pregnant, was admitted with congestive cardiac failure and incessant atrial tachycardia. She had an elevated brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and chest X-ray demonstrating heart failure. The 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) showed atrial tachycardia with a cycle length of 310 ms, inverted P waves in lead I and the inferior leads, and a ventricular rate of 84 bpm during 2:1 block. Echocardiogram showed a global reduction in left ventricular function with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 0.40. Electrical cardioversion failed. Rate control could not be achieved with beta-blockers and calcium antagonists. Amiodarone with repeat cardioversion was also unsuccessful. The patient then underwent catheter ablation. The entire procedure was performed using intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) and electroanatomical mapping with no fluoroscopy. Electrophysiology (EP) study and an activation map of the left atrium confirmed a focal left atrial tachycardia which was successfully ablated. Six weeks postablation, the left ventricular function had normalized and the patient delivered a healthy child at term, without complication. Conclusion: Ablation of left atrial tachycardia using ICE and electroanatomical guidance is feasible in pregnant women. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 22, pp. 346-349, March 2011)
Effect of a Matrigel Sandwich on Endodermal Differentiation of Human Embryonic Stem Cells

Definitive endoderm can be derived from human embryonic stem cells using low serum medium with cytokines involved in the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, including Activin A and Wnt3A. The purpose of this study was to develop an improved protocol that permits the induction of definitive endoderm while avoiding the high rate of cell death that often occurs with existing protocols. By including insulin and other nutrients, we demonstrate that cell viability can be preserved throughout differentiation. In addition, modifying a matrigel sandwich method previously reported to induce precardiac mesoderm allows for enhanced endodermal differentiation based on expression of endoderm-associated genes. The morphological and migratory characteristics of cells cultured by the technique, as well as gene expression patterns, indicate that the protocol can emulate key events in gastrulation towards the induction of definitive endoderm.
Passive Smoking: Effects on Bronchial Asthma

Ten patients with bronchial asthma and ten control subjects were exposed to sidestream cigarette smoke (passive smoking) for one hour in an environmental chamber. All subjects showed the same increase in carboxyhemoglobin as a result of the exposure: 0.40 percent. The asthmatic group demonstrated a significant linear decrease in pulmonary function during this exposure. After one hour of smoke, FEV1 decreased 21.4 percent, FEF25-75% decreased 19.2 percent, and FVC decreased 20.0 percent in the asthmatic patients. These alterations were readily reversible in all subjects when given inhalations of metaproterenol following the exposure. The control subjects showed no change in pulmonary function when exposed to identical conditions. These data show that nonsmokers with bronchial asthma are at risk when exposed to sidestream cigarette smoke in an environmental chamber.
Derivation of the first-order transformation matrix for a simple Wien filter and comparison to results of numerical integration

One of the elements of the 750-keV polarized H/sup -/ injection transport at LAMPF is a Wien (E x B) filter. The Wien filter is used to process the spin of the polarized H/sup -/ ions to the appropriate orientation needed by the experiments. The proton-spin orientation is changed several times during a production cycle. At each new setting of the Wien filter, the beam is focused differently and the beam transport must be returned for an optimum match into the linac. The transport is tuned interactively using the first-order optics code TRACE. The first-order transformation matrix for a simple Wien filter is developed for use in TRACE and the transformation is compared to results of numerical integration to determine the validity of the first-order approximation.
An Analysis of the Sources of Articles in the Journal of Marketing Education: An Update

This article analyzes the sources of articles appearing in the first 40 issues of the Journal of Marketing Education. A total of 380 articles, contributed by 558 different authors from 258 different institutions, were analyzed. The analysis showed a significant decrease in the percentage of single-author articles and a fairly large increase in the average number of references per article. This article also discusses the leading institutional and individual contributors to the JME. Additionally, the characteristics of Journal authors are analyzed, and comparisons between the present study and a similar study of the JME published in 1986 are discussed.
Experimental and theoretical progress in interaction-free measurements

Using a hybrid of a simple interference technique and an application of the quantum Zeno effect, it is possible to optically determine the presence of an absorbing object with an arbitrarily low probability that a photon is actually absorbed. We have demonstrated the feasibility of systems in which up to 85% of the measurements could be "interaction-free". Also, we have started investigating the possibility of using these techniques to allow "interaction-free" imaging of objects; our prototype schemes have shown resolutions of less than 10 µm. Finally, we present a curious phenomenon that occurs when the object in question is only partially transmitting, which should allow a seeming violation of Beer's law.
The Estimated Anisotropic Poroelastic Constants of an Osteon

Anisotropic poroelastic constants of an osteon are estimated by using the micromechanics. The drained elastic constants at the lacunar-canalicular porosity level are estimated by the effective moduli of the bone matrix containing the ellipsoidal cavities, the shape of lacunae. The undrained elastic constants are also calculated by the relation developed by Cowin (2003). These estimated anisotropic poroelastic constants will provide the database to develop an anisotropic poroelastic model of an osteon.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
The Role of Apoptosis in Gynaecological Malignancies

Apoptosis is a process of single-cell deletion requiring active participation of the cell in its own demise. First described in 1972, it is now known to play a major role in embryogenesis, tissue homeostasis and neoplasia. Apoptosis can be initiated when DNA damage occurs causing the cell to pause in its reproductive cycle. If the DNA damage is beyond repair, the cell proceeds to apoptotic cell death. When the genetic mechanism(s) involved in the pathway of apoptosis is altered, the cell does not die. Further mutations occur by proliferation and such multiple mutational events can lead to a malignant phenotype and cancer growth. The tumour suppressor gene p53 causes a DNA-damaged cell to rest and attempt repair. If damage is irreparable, p53 levels will continue to increase, initiating apoptosis. Mutation of p53, found in approximately 50% of cancers, can stop the apoptotic process. Increased bcl-2 expression, an apoptosis inhibitor, also plays a role in cellular transformation and cancer growth. Its altered expression occurs in the presence of oncogene expression. This paper reviews the role of apoptosis in malignant transformation, cancer growth, and response to therapy for gynaecological cancers. For cervical cancer and its precursors, data on apoptotic index, bcl-2 and Bax expression are presented and discussed in relationship to human papillomavirus expression. In ovarian epithelial malignancies, the role that apoptosis plays in chemotherapeutic responses is reviewed. The data for endometrial cancer are currently limited to apoptotic index.
Isolating the Economies of States

Despite impressive efforts, we lack an empirically supported explanation of the role of state-level political processes in shaping state economic performance. This study indicates why a concrete understanding of the interplay of state-level political and economic forces has been elusive. State economies are sensitive to external influences. This sensitivity varies systematically and significantly over time and between states. The magnitude of these external influences shows that before we may unravel how states influence their economies, consideration must be given to the extrastate influences that condition the economic environment of states. Pooled models of state economies are estimated for three periods: 1968-1973, 1974-1979, and 1980-1985. In general, state economies were heavily influenced by national economic trends, but over time they have become more economically independent. States are also evaluated individually. Fast growing states in the 1968-1985 period tended to be the most sensitive to nat...
The Biodiversity Heritage Library: Exposing the Taxonomic Literature

The Biodiversity Heritage Library (BHL; http://www.biodiversitylibrary.org) is a large-scale digitization project that provides open access to the published literature of biodiversity for scientist...
Unpacking "the pimp case": Aging black masculinity and grandchild placement in the child welfare system

The child welfare system is responsible for identifying long-term caregivers for children whose biological parents are unable or unwilling to care for them. Although grandparents are increasingly identified as custodians for their grandchildren, little is known about how grandparents are assessed by state actors. Using ethnographic data, this article unpacks the failure of one 63-year-old African American grandfather and his wife to gain custody of his grandson from foster care. This case–known informally as ‘the pimp case’ because of the unverified but widely accepted belief that he had earned income through sexual solicitation–illustrates how men's aging bodies and histories undermine their efforts to be seen as competent caregivers. This article shows how this grandfather's aging body and its perceived limitations became problematic, how his illegitimate social history was at issue, how their family form as grandparents (and thus, non-parents) was deemed illegitimate, and how these came together to mark race, class, and gender in interrelated–but also contradictory–ways.
Measurement properties of quantitative urine benzoylecgonine in clinical trials research

Psychometric data are presented which examine the validity of using the concentration of benzoylecgonine in urine, a major metabolite of cocaine, as a measure of drug use, in studies of drug abuse treatments. In such research the standard biological indicator of drug use is usually a qualitative urine drug test, which merely indicates the presence or absence of a drug or its metabolite. A quantitative (i.e. continuous) outcome measure, such as the concentration of a drug or its metabolite in a biological fluid, has substantially more statistical power than a dichotomous measure and should, therefore, prove a more sensitive measure of drug use when viewed from a measurement perspective. Data from two placebo-controlled clinical trials of fluoxetine as an adjunct to treatment for cocaine abuse are analyzed to address this issue. Results indicate that urine benzoylecgonine level is closely related to self-reports of drug use and is independent of levels of anxiety, depression and hopelessness.
Mercuracarborand "anti-crown ether"-based chloride-sensitive liquid/polymeric membrane electrodes.

Highly sensitive and selective chloride liquid/polymeric membrane electrodes are described that employ [9]mercuracarborand-3 (MC3), a neutral preorganized macrocyclic Lewis acid, as the anion carrier. MC3-based chloride-sensitive membrane electrodes, doped with different mole percentages of cationic additives (5, 10, and 60 mol % tridodecylmethylammonium chloride) relative to the amount of the carrier, exhibit enhanced potentiometric selectivity for chloride over other anions, including more lipophilic anions such as perchlorate, nitrate, and thiocyanate. In addition, the selectivity coefficients obtained are shown to meet the requirement for clinical applications. The obtained selectivity pattern is shown to correlate very well with 199Hg NMR titrations of MC3 with various anions, performed in organic solvents. Optimized membrane electrodes show a near-Nernstian response toward chloride over a wide concentration range and have micromolar detection limits. MC3-based chloride sensors show a fast response t...
When groups fall apart: the Donner Party disaster

Purpose – The Donner expedition to California in 1846‐1847 is one of the darkest tales of the great migrations west. While much has been written about the tragedy, a group analysis based on business research has not been undertaken. The purpose of this paper is to suggest that the story of the Donner Party is primarily a group failure, with implications for practicing managers employing temporary groups in uncertain situations.Design/methodology/approach – Group theories concerning the nature of temporary work groups, interdependence, diversity, social identity, and leadership are employed to explain how negative group processes likely contributed to the disaster.Findings – Based on books and a film about the incident, the Donner Party suffered a social breakdown based on: the changing nature of the goals of the expedition in mid‐course, which is difficult for temporary teams to handle; destructive forms of diversity based on cultural background and social status; and a lack of critical skills and effecti...
A Sexual Differentiation Scale for the D-A-P Test (for use with children)

(1961). A Sexual Differentiation Scale for the D-A-P Test (for use with children) Journal of Projective Techniques: Vol. 25, No. 4, pp. 441-450.
Effect of excess boron on summer and winter squash

The boron tolerance of two summer squash cultivars (Cucurbita pepo L. ‘Aristocrat Zucchini’ and ‘Peter Pan Scallop’) and one winter squash cultivar (Cucurbita moschata Poir. ‘Butter boy’) was determined in large, outdoor sand cultures. Boron treatments were imposed by irrigation with culture solutions that contained 1.0, 3.0, 6.0, 9.0, 12.0, or 15.0 mg B L-1. Relative fruit yields of ‘Zucchini’, ‘Scallop’, and ‘Butter boy’ were reduced 5.2%, 9.8%, and 4.3% with each unit (mg L-1) increase in soil solution B (Bsw)>2.7, 4.9, and 1.0 mg B L-1, respectively. Reduced yields of all cultivars were attributed to a reduction in fruit number and not fruit size. Boron concentrations in leaves and fruit were directly correlated to Bsw.
Estimating Monthly and Seasonal Precipitation Distributions Using the 30- and 90-Day Outlooks

Abstract A method is presented that specifies gamma distributions consistent with the 30- or 90-day outlook for precipitation and the gamma distribution characterizing the corresponding precipitation climatology. The climatological distribution is progressively adjusted as forecast probabilities depart more strongly from the climatological relative frequency, and in ways that depend on the shape parameter of the climnatological gamma distribution. Parameter maps of the underlying climatological distributions for monthly precipitation totals are provided.
Sulfur- and strontium-isotopic geochemistry of celestite, barite and gypsum from the Mesozoic basins of northeastern Mexico

Abstract The Mesozoic sedimentary basin of northern Mexico contains large limestone-hosted stratiform “mantos” of celestite and barite that appear to have formed by carbonate replacement. We have measured the isotopic compositions of sulfur and strontium in these mantos in order to determine whether they formed by diagenetic processes and, if so, what fraction of the diagenetically released Sr is fixed in celestite deposits. S- and Sr-isotopic analyses of gypsum from layers in the limestone confirm its Cretaceous sedimentary origin. Isotopic compositions of most celestite and barite differ from values observed for the gypsum. Division of the deposits into two geologically and geochemically distinct groups shows that there is a general positive correlation between δ 34S and 87 Sr 86 Sr compositions of celestite and barite in the two systems, with celestite containing lighter S and less radiogenic Sr in both groups of deposits. Less radiogenic Sr in the celestite probably came from nearby Cretaceous limestones. More radiogenic Sr, which is found largely in the barite, probably came from basement-derived arkoses in the Cretaceous basin. Sulfur was derived from evaporites in one deposit group and from some other lighter source, perhaps coal or petroleum, in the other. These isotopic constraints, considered in the light of available solubility data, require that at least two distinct solutions existed and mixed locally during formation of the celestite and barite mantos. No more than 10% of the diagenetically-released Sr is concentrated in the celestite deposits.
2-Ball Speedball: A Fitness-for-All Invasion Game

(2002). 2-Ball Speedball: A Fitness-for-All Invasion Game. Strategies: Vol. 16, No. 1, pp. 21-24.
Processing of one-chain to two-chain renin in the mouse submandibular gland is influenced by androgen.

ABSTRACT: In the male CD-I mouse submandibular gland (SMG) renin activity increases markedly with puberty. We have reported that this is, in part, due to an androgen-mediated increase in renin gene transcription. In this study, we examined whether posttranslational processing is also influenced by androgen. We studied secretion and processing of active renin in the CD-I male mouse SMG which secretes primarily the Ren-2 renin isozyme before and after puberty and also compared findings with the adult female CD-I mouse. Maturation increases renin level and secretion rate in the male SMG but much less in the female, In addition, Western blot analysis of molecular forms of renin in SMG tissue and media shows a predominance of 1-chain intermediate form of renin before puberty but of the 2-chain mature form thereafter. Adult female SMG contains and secretes much less active renin than the male organ. Administration of testosterone to the female CD-I mouse induces an adult male level and pattern of secretion, with high concentrations of active 2-chain renin being secreted. These data suggest that SMG renin is androgen regulated, in part by an androgen-responsive enzyme that processes 1-chain renin to the 2-chain form.
Cerebral Cortical Blood Flow and Oxygen Metabolism in Normocythemic Hyperviscous Newborn Piglets

ABSTRACT: Our study tests the hypothesis that hyperviscosity independent of arterial O2 content reduces cerebral cortical blood flow, O2 delivery, and O2 uptake. After baseline determinations, ten 2− to 4-day-old awake spontaneously breathing piglets were given an intravenous infusion (5 ml · kg-1, body weight) of concentrated cyroprecipitate, whereas eight controls received normal saline. Cerebral cortical blood flow, arterial and superior sagittal sinus O2 content, whole blood viscosity, hematocrit, blood gases, and plasma fibrinogen concentrations were measured at baseline and 3 h after infusion. No significant changes were observed in the control group. Three hours after the infusion of concentrated cryoprecipitate the experimental group showed an increase in whole blood viscosity, whereas hematocrit and arterial O2 content were unchanged. There was a decrease in cerebral cortical blood flow and cerebral cortical O2 delivery, whereas cerebral cortical O2 uptake was unchanged. We conclude that hyperviscosity independent of arterial O2 content reduces cerebral cortical blood flow and that although O2 delivery was reduced in the newborn piglet cerebral cortical O2 uptake was maintained.
Aristotle on loving another for his own sake

L'A. tente de comprendre l'ethique aristotelicienne a partir de sa conception de l'amitie. Il montre qu'une interpretation de celle-ci comme «altruisme» ne correspond guere a la pensee d'Aristote, tandis que le concept de «desinteressement» est plus fructueux si on le met en relation avec une theorie de l'action «noble»
Measuring Caregiver Attitude Toward the Provision of Long-Term Care

The development and initial validation of a newly created scale to measure the attitude toward the provision of longterm care (ATPLTC Scale) is presented. The ATPLTC is a 26-item self-report scale designed for use without regard for the cause of the LTC need itself. The research is based on a sample of 188 respondents including caregivers to the mentally retarded and elderly, as well as non-caregivers. Using Cronbach's alpha, the reliability of the scale was found to be .863. Content validity is supported following Nunnally. Initial criterion-related and construct validity are demonstrated statistically through the use of a variety of correlational techniques.
Volatile anaesthetic effects on Na+-Ca2+ exchange in rat cardiac myocytes

1 We examined the influence of two clinically relevant concentrations (1 and 2 MAC (minimum alveolar concentration)) of halothane and sevoflurane on both efflux and reverse modes of Na+-Ca2+ exchange (NCX) in enzymatically dissociated adult rat cardiac myocytes. We hypothesised that a volatile anaesthetic-induced decrease in myocardial contractility is mediated by a reduction in intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) via inhibition of NCX. 2 Cells were exposed to cyclopiazonic acid and zero extracellular Na+ and Ca2+ to block sacroplasmic reticulum (SR) re-uptake and NCX efflux, respectively. As [Ca2+]i increased under these conditions, extracellular Na+ was rapidly (< 300 ms) reintroduced in the presence or absence of a volatile anaesthetic to selectively promote Ca2+ efflux via NCX. Other cells exposed to cyclopiazonic acid and ryanodine to inhibit SR Ca2+ re-uptake and release were Na+ loaded in zero extracellular Ca2+. The reintroduction of extracellular Ca2+ was used to selectively activate Ca2+ influx via NCX. 3 Compared to controls, both 1 and 2 MAC halothane as well as sevoflurane reduced NCX-mediated efflux. The reduction in NCX-mediated influx was concentration dependent, but comparable between the two anaesthetics. Both anaesthetics at each concentration also shifted the relationship between extracellular Na+ (or extent of Na+ loading) and NCX-mediated efflux (or influx) to the right. 4 These data indicate that despite inhibition of NCX-mediated Ca2+ efflux, volatile anaesthetics produce myocardial depression. However, the inhibition of NCX-mediated Ca2+ influx may contribute to decreased cardiac contractility. The overall effect of volatile anaesthetics on the [Ca2+]i profile is likely to be determined by the relative contributions of influx vs. efflux via NCX during each cardiac cycle.
Direct molecular diffusion and micro-mixing for rapid dewatering of LiBr solution

Abstract A slow molecular diffusion rate often limits the desorption process of an absorbate molecule from a liquid absorbent. To enhance the desorption rate, the absorbent is often boiled to increase the liquid–vapor interfacial area. However, the growth of bubbles generated during the nucleate boiling process still remains mass-diffusion limited. Here, it is shown that a desorption rate higher than that of boiling can be achieved, if the vapor–absorbent interface is continuously replenished with the absorbate-rich solution to limit the concentration boundary layer growth. The study is conducted in a LiBr–water solution, in which the water molecules' diffusion rate is quite slow. The manipulation of the vapor–solution interface concentration distribution is enabled by the mechanical confinement of the solution flow within microchannels, using a hydrophobic vapor-venting membrane and the implementation of microstructures on the flow channel's bottom wall. The microstructures stretch and fold the laminar streamlines within the solution film and produce vortices. The vortices continuously replace the concentrated solution at the vapor–solution interface with the water-rich solution brought from the bottom and middle of the flow channel. The physics of the process is described using a combination of experimental and numerical studies.
Identification and characterization of PilS, an essential regulator of pilin expression in Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Expression of the pilin gene, pilA, of Pseudomonas aeruginosa requires the alternative sigma factor, σ54, and also two other transcriptional regulators encoded by the pilS and pilR genes. These two linked genes, which have been identified by transposon insertion mutagenesis, share significant amino acid sequence homology with members of the two-component family of regulators. The transcriptional regulator, PilR, has been described previously. PilS, a 37285 Dalton protein, shares significant homology with the protein kinase sensors of the two-component regulatory family. PilS, however, has no hydrophobic domains which might be membrane-spanning alpha-helices, suggesting that PilS is a cytoplasmic protein. Characterization of the pilS gene revealed that when overexpressed in Escherichia coli by the bacteriophage T7 promoter it specifies a protein of approximately 40000 daltons, corresponding to the molecular weight of Pi1S predicted from the deduced amino acid sequence. Deletion analysis of the pilS promoter fused to a promoterless lacZ gene further showed that a significant region upstream of pilS is essential for expression of pilS and pilR, suggesting a need for transcriptional activation. The pilA promoter can be activated in E. coli but only when PilR and σ54 are present. This work suggests that the Pi1S activation signal is received in the bacterial cytoplasm, and that the mechanism of Pi1S/PiIR-mediated signal transduction resulting in activation of the pilin gene promoter is likely to be similar to that of other two-component systems.
Youth suicide prevention: does access to care matter?

Purpose of review Recent increases in adolescent suicide rates after a decade of decline highlight the relevance of pediatric suicide prevention. Existing strategies to intervene with youth at risk for suicide are largely based on the premise that access to effective services is of critical importance. This review aims to examine the relationship between youth suicide and access to care. Recent findings Promising reductions in suicidal thinking and behavior have been associated with the application of manualized psychotherapies, collaborative interventions in primary care, lithium for mood-disordered adults, and clozapine in schizophrenia. Suicide rates correlate inversely with indices of care access across the lifespan, including antidepressant prescription rates. Summary Suicide is a preventable cause of death, and any public health relevant effort to prevent youth suicide must include improving access to effective care for at-risk youth as a strategy. Education and training of professionals and consumers, the integration of mental health services in primary care, and the use of novel technologies to track and maintain contact with at-risk youth are worthy of study. Additional research on the relationship between specific treatments, especially antidepressants, and youth suicide risk reduction is desperately needed.
Model of chemical vapor infiltration using temperature gradients

An optimized chemical vapor infiltration (CVI) process has conditions that promote complete densification at the fastest allowable reaction rate. In order to help define optimum conditions, a model has been developed to simulate the CVI of a fibrous specimen for determining the effects of temperature gradients along with the other processing parameters such as pressure, size, chemistry, rate of reaction, and porosity on the resulting deposition profiles. This model simulates the deposition of alumina matrix within fibers wrapped around a tube. This symmetry reduces the model to a simple one-dimensional problem. Parameters for transport properties, calculated using a local microstructure model, are used in this macroscopic model. The model is applied as a guideline for choosing optimum conditions for producing a dense ceramic matrix composite. From this model, process diagrams are constructed that can help an experimentalist to choose the best conditions for the CVI process using temperature gradients.
Isothermal heating experiments on Bjurböle: Implications for the release mechanisms of radiogenic 129Xe

Abstract To understand the response of the IXe system to thermal events, isothermal heating experiments were performed on the Bjurbole (L4) standard used for IXe dating. The time dependence of the release of radiogenic 129Xe was determined by analyzing Bjurbole heated for various times at temperatures of I000, 1100, and 1200°°C using noble gas mass spectrometry. Results indicate that a single domain (site of radiogenic 129Xe) model is insufficient to describe the release. At least two, and possibly more, domains are present in Bjurbole. At least one domain outgasses in one hour at a temperature ≤ 1000°C by a mechanism which is not indicative of volume diffusion. For the 1100°C heating one domain containing the majority of radiogenic 129Xe in Bjurbole is seen to outgas in a manner suggestive of volume diffusion. Release characteristics at 1200°C indicate the presence of at least one high temperature domain. In domains which contain I-correlated Xe, assuming loss by volume diffusion, Dodson closure temperatures are at least as high as, and perhaps much higher than, the peak metamorphic temperature experienced by Bjurbole. Based on diffusion parameters, the diffusion length of radiogenic 129Xe, at peak metamorphic temperatures, is much less than a characteristic domain size of 10−3 cm. Therefore, if the release is governed by volume diffusion, then the IXe system has remained unaltered by thermal metamorphism. Loss of radiogenic 129Xe by mechanisms other than volume diffusion, such as a phase transformation or the melting of a host mineral phase, is possible, but is not indicated in the release of the majority of the gas. If the release is by melting of highly retentive domains then the IXe system has remained unaltered by thermal metamorphism.
Importance of mixing ratio for a long-term CO 2 flux measurement with a closed-path system

The new type closed-path CO 2 /H 2 O infrared gas analyser enables us to calculate CO 2 fluxes from both the mixing ratio (inline image) and mass density of CO 2 F c WPL . After the WPL correction was applied, F c MR and F c WPL were almost in accord with each other. However, F c WPL tended to be slightly larger than F c MR , which resulted in a significant difference in cumulative CO 2 fluxes. We found that this difference was explained by the pressure covariance term, which is normally omitted in the WPL correction. Therefore, ignoring the pressure covariance term in the WPL correction can cause a serious error in estimation of annual net ecosystem exchange. To reduce uncertainties in calculations, we recommend using the mixing ratio for calculation of CO 2 fluxes when using the new type closed-path infrared gas analyser. DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0889.2011.00538.x
Some applications of ion exchange resins to medical problems

A documented review of the present status of ion exchange resins as therapeutic agents is presented. The review indicates that anion exchange resins provide effective relief in the treatment of peptic ulcer. Certain cation exchange resins, used in conjunction with a limited salt intake, may be effective in the relief and control of edema. The resins that have been used as drugs are nontoxic at the dose levels required. It is predicted that additional therapeutic applications may be found for ion exchange resins.
Modeling the Canalizing Effects of the Delta-Notch Signaling Pathway

Canalization is a biological framework for describing the patterned development of adult tissues from a set of un-patterned natal tissues through local interactions that produce global effects. An Agent-Based Model (ABM) of the Delta-Notch signaling pathway has been developed that organizes at the protein-level to exhibit selection effects at the cellular-level. The Delta-Notch signaling interaction is a well understood developmental patterning mechanism first elucidated in Drosophila but utilized in most developing organisms. The model focuses on the active agents of the signaling pathway, Delta (Dl) and Notch (N), which are initially generated by a producer agent. The space is enclosed by agents representing the outer-membrane, where both signaling agents are localized and diffuse within after production. The membrane placement allows signaling agents of neighboring cells to interact; this interaction produces a cleaved N that acts to alter the production of the signaling pathway agents Cells within the model are driven towards a neuronal or epidermal cell fate, forming a rosette pattern where each neuron is surrounded by only epidermal cells and identical to the patterning seen in the biological system. As the model is executed, the system will go through repeated periods where structure is constructed and then destructed, ultimately developing larger regions of rosette cell patterning with each cycle. This behavior is derived from fine-grained spatial information established by the cellular movement of the agent, allowing for ad-hoc signal regionalization.
Advances in Chip-Scale Atomic Frequency References at NIST

Coherent population trapping (CPT) resonances usually exhibit contrasts below 10 % when interrogated with frequency modulated lasers. We discuss a relatively simple way to increase the resonance contrast to nearly 100 % generating an additional light field through a nonlinear four-wave mixing interaction in the atomic vapor 1 . A similar method can also be used to create a beat signal at the CPT resonance frequency that can injection-lock a low-power microwave oscillator at 3.4 GHz directly to the atomic resonance 2 . This could lead to chip-scale atomic clocks (CSACs) with improved performance. Furthermore, we introduce a miniature microfabricated saturated absorption spectrometer 3 that produces a signal for locking a laser frequency to optical transitions in alkali atoms. The Rb absorption spectra are comparable to signals obtained with standard table-top setups, although the rubidium vapor cell has an interior volume of only 1 mm 3 and the volume of the entire spectrometer is around 0.1 cm 3 .