cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Adenovirus-mediated gene transfer into tendon and tendon sheath

In this study, we successfully transferred the Escherichia coli beta-galactosidase gene. LacZ, into the chicken tendon and tendon sheath by a recombinant adenovirus. The recombinant adenovirus Adv-beta gal that carried the E. coli LacZ gene was constructed by homologous recombination in 293 cells (human transformed embryonic kidney) between the expressing vector and the ClaI large fragment of adenovirus 5 genome. Each chicken received a 10 microliters injection containing 10(5) plaque-forming units of recombinant virus Adv-beta gal. into the tendon sheath of the long toe Samples of tendon and tendon sheath were harvested at 3.30, and 75 days after the injection. The LacZ gene transfer was detected for its coding product beta-galactosidase by staining with X-gal solution. The results showed that all tendon and tendon sheath samples from the three harvest times stained positive (blue). The tendon sheath samples were more extensively stained; staining of the tendon was limited to the epitenon layer. These data suggest that a functional exogenous gene can potentially be transferred into the tendon and tendon sheath by similar techniques; such techniques may be used to improve healing and reduce adhesion formation.
Long-Term Reuse of Drainage Waters of Varying Salinities for Crop Irrigation in a Cotton-Safflower Rotation System in the San Joaquin Valley of California—A Nine Year Study: I. Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)

Summary Use of saline drainage water for crop irrigation was evaluated as a means of decreasing its volume. Results of a nine-year crop rotation (cotton-cotton-safflower, × 3) in which only the cotton was irrigated with drainage water of 400, 1,500, 3,000, 4,500, 6,000, and 9,000 ppm total dissolved salts are presented. The different salinity levels of irrigation waters were achieved by mixing nonsaline canal water (400 ppm) and saline drainage water. Cotton lint yields were not affected by increased salinity level of the irrigation water for the first two years. Detrimental effects became evident in the third cotton crop with increasing severity in later years. In the fifth year of cotton (seventh year of the study), lint yields were adversely affected by waters of salinity greater than 3,000 ppm. However, fiber quality remained unaffected at all levels of irrigation water salinity. The reductions in lint yield appeared to be a function of time and the salinity level of applied water. Shoot height and bi...
Digital optical architectures for multiple matrix multiplication

Abstract Two digital optical architectures utilizing a binary number encoding technique for multiple matrix multiplication are presented. An inner-product method with grating masks is used in one of the architectures, so that multiple matrix multiplication can be performed in parallel. The second architecture, a mixture of systolic array and the inner-product processing method are used. These two architectures can offer high accuracy with moderate speed processing capability.
A vacuum tube amplifier for small direct voltages

Abstract A simple means for combining a small direct voltage with an alternating carrier is described. This consists of connecting the direct voltage in series with an alternating voltage of the same order of magnitude. The two are then passed through a copper oxide rectifier which suppresses one part of the cycle. The degree of suppression depends upon the magnitude of the direct voltage. The resulting fluctuating voltage can be amplified to any desired degree in a conventional amplifier. The theory for the simple case of pure resistance is worked out, with an example. The solution of the more general case with inductances is indicated. The practical circuit which has been used for the amplification of thermo-couple currents, and as a galvanometer power multiplier, is shown.
A mechanical method for graphical solution of polynomials

Abstract A mechanical synthesizer with thirty harmonic elements (fifteen sine components and fifteen cosine components) may be used to graph a polynomial in a complex plane. The sum of the sine components is recorded by a tracing point which moves vertically. The sum of the cosine components is recorded by horizontal motion of a drawing board. Expansion of the polynomial by De Moivre's theorem expresses the function as a sum of sine terms and a sum of cosine terms. The polynomial may then be graphed by the machine, and thereby the complex roots determined. A number of typical curves are given to illustrate the machine method of determining real, imaginary, and complex roots. An auxiliary method is described which gives all the real roots of the polynomial from a single graph.
Attenuation and Successive Reflections of Traveling Waves

This paper describes the method followed in separating out the individual waves from the oscillographic record of the voltage at a transition point due to the superposition of several successive reflections. The separation is necessary in determining the attenuation of the waves on the transmission line. In the past it has not been unusual to find the reduction in the crest value of each successive reflection attributed to attenuation, whereas the major cause of such reduction was reflection at the terminal equipment. The paper discusses a class of lattices which offer a simple and convenient means for keeping track of successive reflections, so that the position, direction, and previous history of each separate wave may be ascertained at any instant of time almost at a glance. The reflection and refraction operators are defined and applied to specific examples. A few oscillograms of successive reflections are analyzed and a number of attenuation curves has been plotted.
Predictive methods for self-diffusion and mutual diffusion coefficients in polymer–solvent systems

Abstract Methods are presented for the prediction of solvent self-diffusion coefficients and mutual diffusion coefficients in polymer–solvent systems for the complete concentration range and over wide temperature ranges. Procedures are developed for both rubbery and glassy polymer–solvent systems.
The Troy Legend in Bohorič's 'Praefatiuncula' to Arcticae Horulae and Comparable Writings of the Medieval and Renaissance Periods

The issue of Slovene culture in the European context occupies an important place in Rado Lencek's rich and versatile scholarly opus. This contribution to his Festschrift is written with the intention of supporting the crucial connection of Slovene culture with its Western European models. The Troy legend is an example which indicates clearly the link between Slovene Protestant writings and Northern European historiography. The Troy legend preserved in the historiography ofthe Renaissance and the Reformation period has a long history. Homer's heroes of the Trojan war continued to live through the centuries in later Roman versions of Homer's work as well as in medieval Franco-Roman legends and chronicles. The present paper will not attempt an exhaustive survey of the existing Italian and Northern European medieval and Renaissance versions of the Troy legend. Our task here is to put in proper cultural context the appearance of this legend in Bohoric's Preface to his grammar Arcficae Horulae (1584). However, before we analyze BohoriC's Slavic version of the Troy legend, we should survey its development on Western European soil. The Troy legend played an immense role in the Middle Ages and was popular both in Italy and Franco-Gallia. Although the Troy legend was of Roman imperial origin, the Church kept propagating it persistently with peaceful purposes, tracing the descent of the Franks and Romans from the city of Troy. Thus these two peoples were said to have the same ancestors, and so to be 'German' brothers. The term German derives from this name, which the Romans gave to the Franks. The Romans and the Franks as cousins were consanguineous and the ancient German chronicles represent the Franks as the brothers or the cousins of the Romans: Romanum fore Troianum natura fatetur / Germanus pafriofa suus Jraterque videtur, and as having the same mother: Troia suis populis mater utrique fuit. J It is important to underscore the fact that from the earliest times the Troy legend was widely propagated for political and juridical reasons. The Frankish emperor was the successor of the Roman emperor. The acceptance of the Troy legend in Franco-Gallia embodied the medieval ideal of a universal Roman society and the Holy Roman Empire. Therefore the Roman law received and applied by the Franks and Gauls was considered by the Romans as the imperial law applicable to all Roman territories. The trans/atio imperii had as its goal to preserve that ideal and universal state which was the Roman Empire, with its providential mission towards the human race; a mission analogous in the natural order to that of the Church in the Order of Grace. The Troy legend, with its Roman ideal of the universal Empire, found its best expression in Dante's works. For example, in the Fourth Treatise of the Convivio Dante sets forth the high mission of the Roman people:
Case report: Branch retinal vein occlusion and primary antiphospholipid syndrome

Abstract Background Branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) is commonly encountered in older patients with vascular disease. This report presents a case of BRVO in an atypically young patient that precipitated additional testing and a subsequent diagnosis of primary antiphospholipid syndrome. This illustrates a need for a thrombophilic evaluation in atypical patients. Case report A 33-year-old white man presented with a BRVO in the left eye. Laboratory studies found the presence of persistently elevated anticardiolipin immunoglobulin G and immunoglobulin M antibodies in the absence of causative systemic disease, conferring the diagnosis of primary antiphospholipid syndrome and supporting a thrombotic component of this BRVO. Conclusion The presentation of a BRVO in young patients with minimal observable retinal effects from classic BRVO risk factors may indicate the necessity of a hematologic evaluation to determine possible compounding causes. Here we show a methodical inspection of the cause of an atypical BRVO and, more specifically, consideration for hypercoagulable pathologies and their treatment in such patient encounters.
Pseudospin Symmetry in Nuclei as a Relativistic Symmetry

We review some of the empirical and theoretical evidence supporting pseudospin symmetry in nuclei as a relativistic symmetry. We show that the eigenfunctions of realistic relativistic nuclear mean fields approximately conserve pseudospin symmetry. We discuss the implications of pseudospin symmetry for magnetic dipole transitions and Gamow-Teller transitions between states in pseudospin doublets. We explore a more fundamental rationale for pseudospin symmetry in terms of quantum chromodynamics (QCD), the basic theory of the strong interactions. We show that pseudospin symmetry in nuclei implies spin symmetry for an anti-nucleon in a nuclear environment.
Structural Basis for the Transcriptional Regulation of Membrane Lipid Homeostasis

DesT is a transcriptional repressor that regulates the genes that control the unsaturated:saturated fatty acid ratio available for membrane lipid synthesis. DesT bound to unsaturated acyl-CoA has a high affinity for its cognate palindromic DNA-binding site, whereas DesT bound to saturated acyl-CoA does not bind this site. Structural analyses of the DesT-oleoyl-CoA-DNA and DesT-palmitoyl-CoA complexes reveal that acyl chain shape directly influences the packing of hydrophobic core residues within the DesT ligand-binding domain. These changes are propagated to the paired DNA-binding domains via conformational changes to modulate DNA binding. These structural interpretations are supported by the in vitro and in vivo characterization of site-directed mutants. The regulation of DesT by the unsaturated:saturated ratio of acyl chains rather than the concentration of a single ligand is a paradigm for understanding transcriptional regulation of membrane lipid homeostasis.
Anticoagulation monitoring during pediatric extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

The best method to monitor anticoagulation during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is unknown. We conducted a prospective observational study in a tertiary pediatric intensive care unit. Anti-factor Xa (anti-FXa), antithrombin (AT), and factor VIII activity (FVIII) were measured in blood samples collected at 6, 12, and every 24h of ECMO. We enrolled 34 children who underwent 35 ECMO runs from April 2008–September 2010. ACT and heparin doses were higher, whereas anti-FXa levels were lower in neonates compared to infants/children. Median anti-FXa was 0.4 IU/mL, median AT was 60%, and median FVIII was 67%. Heparin infusion rate, anti-FXa, and AT increased, FVIII was stable, and ACT decreased with each day on ECMO. ACT had poor agreement with anti-FXa (42%). AT was inversely correlated with ACT (r=−0.33), even after adjusting for heparin dose, and positively correlated with anti-FXa (r=0.57). This study emphasizes the age differences as well as the variability over days of coagulation monitoring assays during ECMO. ACT is poorly correlated with anti-FXa and AT modifies the relationship between ACT and heparin dose, indicating that results should be interpreted with caution when managing anticoagulation on ECMO. Additional studies are warranted to determine optimal ECMO anticoagulation monitoring.
Patients Covertly Recording Clinical Encounters: Threat or Opportunity? A Qualitative Analysis of Online Texts

BACKGROUND: The phenomenon of patients covertly recording clinical encounters has generated controversial media reports. This study aims to examine the phenomenon and analyze the underlying issues. METHODS AND FINDINGS: We conducted a qualitative analysis of online posts, articles, blogs, and forums (texts) discussing patients covertly recording clinical encounters. Using Google and Google Blog search engines, we identified and analyzed 62 eligible texts published in multiple countries between 2006 and 2013. Thematic analysis revealed four key themes: 1) a new behavior that elicits strong reactions, both positive and negative, 2) an erosion of trust, 3) shifting patient-clinician roles and relationships, and 4) the existence of confused and conflicting responses. When patients covertly record clinical encounters - a behavior made possible by various digital recording technologies - strong reactions are evoked among a range of stakeholders. The behavior represents one consequence of an erosion of trust between patients and clinicians, and when discovered, leads to further deterioration of trust. Confused and conflicting responses to the phenomenon by patients and clinicians highlight the need for policy guidance. CONCLUSIONS: This study describes strong reactions, both positive and negative, to the phenomenon of patients covertly recording clinical encounters. The availability of smartphones capable of digital recording, and shifting attitudes to patient-clinician relationships, seems to have led to this behavior, mostly viewed as a threat by clinicians but as a welcome and helpful innovation by some patients, possibly indicating a perception of subordination and a lack of empowerment. Further examination of this tension and its implications is needed.
ON SOME EXPLICIT APPROXIMATE SOLUTIONS OF THE MAXWELL-STEFAN EQUATIONS FOR THE MULTICOMPONENT FILM MODEL

An explicit approximate solution of the Maxwell-Stefan equations, which describe mass transfer in multi-componcnt gas mixtures, for a film model is developed as a generalisation of a method by Burghardt and Krupiczka for diffusion through a mixture of stagnant gases. The consistent approach to explicit approximations described here also leads to the earlier general method of Krishna. Numerical examples demonstrate the superiority of the new approximation in problems involving mass transfer at high rates.
Synthesis and Structures of Nickel and Palladium Salicylaldiminato 1,3,5-Triaza-7-phosphaadamantane (PTA) Complexes

The synthesis of nickel(II) and palladium(II) salicylaldiminato complexes incorporating the water-soluble phosphine 1,3,5-triaza-7-phosphaadamantane(PTA) has been achieved employing two preparative routes. Reaction of the original ethylene polymerization catalyst developed by Grubbs and co-workers (Organometallics 1998, 17, 3149), (salicylaldiminato)Ni(Ph)PPh3, with PTA using a homogeneous methanol/toluene solvent system resulted in the formation of the PTA analogues in good yields. Alternatively, complexes of this type may be synthesized via a direct approach utilizing (tmeda)M(CH3)2 (M = Ni, Pd), the corresponding salicylaldimine, and PTA. Yields by this method were generally near quantitative. The complexes were characterized in solution by 1H/13C/31P NMR spectroscopy and in the solid-state by X-ray crystallography. All derivatives exhibited square-planar geometry with the bulky isopropyl groups on the aniline being perpendicular to the plane formed by the metal center and its four ligands. Such orient...
MULTIVARIATE RIDGE RESIDUAL CHARTS

We present a new charting technique called the Multivariate Ridge Residual Charts (MRRC), which can be used to control the mean vector in a multivariate environment. We assume that the process output follows a multivariate Normal distribution and that t..
The Tele-Web Distance Learning Course Format For The Graduate Degree In Dietetics

Abstract Our university is converting to the Tele-Web distance learning format to deliver courses that will meet the requirements for the M.S. Degree Program in Nutrition and Dietetics. The Tele-Web course is a unique distance learning concept because it integrates both the Instructional Television (ITV) format with a complete World Wide Web-based instructional package. Many practicing dietitians need the M.S. degree and live and work full-time at distant locations, making regular attendance to on-campus classes very difficult. The twelve-week Tele-Web course is designed for graduate students who may have difficulty attending class on campus. The integrated method of the Tele-Web provides an extra measure of interaction with students and greatly enhances the quality of instruction. The Tele-Web format is especially beneficial to dietetics students who are at the graduate level and who need more advanced information delivered in an efficient manner. In the ITV component, students view course information through twenty-four, one hour television broadcasts on our local Public Broadcasting network. Students who live outside the viewing area are mailed videotapes of the broadcasts. The ITV component uses instructional graphics and presents interviews with nutrition specialists. In the Web component, students have access to the course website. Students receive assignments, view lecturettes, complete interactive Internet-based exercises, and post summaries of their completed assignments on our website bulletin board. Classmates also participate in open discussions through regular "chat" conferences with the instructor and with their classmates on the Internet. One of the Tele-Web courses in our program, HEV 662 Micronutrients will be demonstrated.
Arcuate Nucleus Proopiomelanocortin Neurons Mediate the Acute Anorectic Actions of Leukemia Inhibitory Factor via gp130

The proinflammatory cytokine leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is induced in disease states and is known to inhibit food intake when administered centrally. However, the neural pathways underlying this effect are not well understood. We demonstrate that LIF acutely inhibits food intake by directly activating pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus. We show that arcuate POMC neurons express the LIF-R, and that LIF stimulates the release of the anorexigenic peptide, α-MSH from ex vivo hypothalami. Transgenic mice lacking gp130, the signal transducing subunit of the LIF-R complex, specifically in POMC neurons fail to respond to LIF. Furthermore, LIF does not stimulate the release of α-MSH from the transgenic hypothalamic explants. These findings indicate that POMC neurons mediate the acute anorectic actions of central LIF administration and provide a mechanistic link between inflammation and food intake.
The formation and addition polymerization of two organotungsten monomers: (η5-vinylcyclopentadienyl) tricarbonylmethyltungsten and (η5-cyclopentadienylmethyl acrylate)tricarbonylmethyltungsten

Abstract The first report on the preparation, polymerization and copolymerization of two organotungsten vinyl monomers, (η 5 -vinylcyclopentadienyl)tricarbonylmethyltungsten (IV) and (η 5 -cyclopentadienylmethyl acrylate)tricarbonylmethyltungsten (IX) is described. Monomer IV was prepared from a reaction between formylcyclopentadienylsodium and hexacarbonyltungsten in DMF, followed by methylation with methyl iodide to produce (η 5 -formylcyclopentadienyl)tricarbonylmethyltungsten (III), and subsequent conversion of the latter into IV under phase transfer conditions employing triphenylmethylphosphonium iodide, 5 N sodium hydroxide and benzene. Moreover IX was obtained by sodium borohydride reduction of III, followed by treatment of the resulting carbinol with sodium hydride and subsequent reaction with acryloyl chloride. Monomer IV homopolymerized sluggishly, and copolymerized slowly with styrene under radical initiation in benzene solution. Copolymerizations of IV with methyl methacrylate, acrylonitrile, and N -vinyl-2-pyrrolidone were also successful. Monomer IX homopolymerized and copolymerized with styrene and with methyl acrylate. A styrene copolymer of IV when treated with iBuAlCl 2 and oxygen was active as a metathesis catalyst with 3-heptene.
Musculoskeletal disorders in labor-intensive agriculture

This paper gives an overview of the extent of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in agriculture, and a historical perspective on how ergonomics has been used to reduce the health effects of labor-intensive agriculture. A summary of exposure to MSD physical risk factors within various classes of crops, along with various administrative and engineering controls for abating MSDs in agriculture is given. These controls range from programmed rest breaks to mechanized or partially-mechanized operations. Worker-based approaches such as prone carts and platforms, and load transfer devices hold promise in combating the prevalent stooped work in agriculture. Including the worker as an integral contributor to all aspects of developing and implementing an intervention, and considering the psychosocial and socio-cultural aspects of the work environment are crucial elements of effective interventions for reducing MSDs. Despite the advent progress in new technologies in agricultural practices, reliance on labor, especially in fresh market fruits and vegetables, will always be a major cornerstone of agriculture for at least the foreseen future. It is encouraging to see the increased interest among health and safety professionals, epidemiologists, engineers, social scientists, and ergonomists throughout the world who are committed to the plight of reducing MSDs and other health problems among agricultural workers.
The effect of antifibrinolytic prophylaxis on postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing cardiac operations.

Abstract Antifibrinolytic agents such as aprotinin and epsilon aminocaproic acid limit postoperative bleeding and blood transfusion in patients undergoing cardiac operations using cardiopulmonary b...
Invariant background field method for chiral lagrangians including Wess-Zumino terms

Abstract A chiral invariant background field method is introduced in order to study the structure of higher order terms in chiral perturbation theory. Explicit one-loop calculations are presented together with the construction of the most general O (p6) chiral lagrangian relevant for anomalous processes. The non-renormalization of the coefficient of the Wess-Zumino term in both two and four dimensions is discussed in general.
A new nonlinear surface heat flux calibration method based on Kirchhoff transformation and rescaling principles

A novel surface heat flux calibration method is presented applicable to nonlinear inverse heat conduction problems. Quasi-linearization of the nonlinear heat equation is achieved by combining the Kirchhoff transform with time-domain rescaling based on the local temperature measurement. At each time step, the thermophysical properties are held constant throughout the spatial domain though allowed to vary with advancing time. The rescaled forms are then resolved through a calibration framework. The proposed calibration formulation is expressed in terms of Volterra integral equation of the first kind. This functional equation relates the rescaled net unknown surface heat flux to the rescaled net calibration surface heat flux and their corresponding rescaled Kirchhoff transformed variables for the in-depth temperature measurements during the calibration test and unknown runs. Tikhonov regularization is introduced for generating a family of predictions based on the Tikhonov parameter. The L-curve strategy is u...
Alterations in neurotransmitter activity after acute and chronic ethanol treatment: studies of transmitter interactions.

Acute and chronic ethanol treatment has multiple effects on the neurotransmitter systems in the nigrostriatal complex. A single dose of ethanol increases striatal dopamine release at low doses, but depresses it at high doses. In ethanol-dependent rats, dopamine release is accelerated during intoxication, but is reduced during a withdrawal syndrome. Concomitantly, high-affinity choline uptake, an index of cholinergic activity, is elevated at times when dopamine release is depressed. Changes in dopaminergic or cholinergic receptor activity do not induce or result from these effects. Neither has a role for GABA or substance P yet been implicated. The data suggest that interactions between at least two transmitters in the caudate nucleus may occur after acute and chronic ethanol treatment.
A Multiscale Analysis of the Extreme Weather Events over Western Russia and Northern Pakistan during July 2010

AbstractThis manuscript presents a detailed multiscale analysis—using observations, model analyses, and ensemble forecasts—of the extreme heat wave over Russia and historic floods over Pakistan during late July 2010, with an emphasis on the floods over northern Pakistan. The results show that recirculation of air and dynamically driven subsidence occurring with the intensification of the blocking anticyclone in late July 2010 were key factors for producing the exceptionally warm temperatures over western Russia. Downstream energy dispersion from the blocking region led to trough deepening northwest of Pakistan and ridge building over the Tibetan Plateau, thereby providing the linkage between the Russian heat wave and Pakistan flood events on the large scale, in agreement with previous studies.The extratropical downstream energy dispersion and enhanced convective outflow on the large scale associated with the active phase of the Madden–Julian oscillation facilitated the formation of an intense upper-level ...
The proton-sucrose symport.

The heterotrophic tissues of the plant are dependent upon carbon and nitrogen import for normal growth and development. In general, oxidized forms of these essential elements are reductively assimilated in the leaf and, subsequently, sucrose and amino acids are transported to the heterotrophic cells in a process known as assimilate partitioning. In many plant species, a critical component of the assimilate partitioning pathway is the proton-sucrose symport. This active transport system couples sucrose translocation across the plasma membrane to the proton motive force generated by the H+-pumping ATPase. To date, the proton-sucrose symport is the only known system that can account for sucrose accumulation in the vascular tissue of the plant. This review focuses on recent advances describing the transport properties and bioenergetics of the proton-sucrose symport.
Prospective Identification of Myocardial Stunning Using Technetium-99m Sestamibi–Based Measurements of Infarct Size

Abstract Objectives. We sought to prospectively identify patients with stunning and hyperkinesia at hospital discharge on the basis of mismatches between left ventricular (LV) function and infarct size as assessed by technetium-99m (Tc-99m) sestamibi perfusion tomographic imaging. Background. Mechanical indexes of LV function may not accurately reflect myocardial damage after acute myocardial infarction (MI) because of myocardial stunning and compensatory hyperkinesia in noninfarct-related territories. Myocardial perfusion techniques are unaffected by these variables. Methods. Eighty-four patients with acute MI underwent hospital admission and discharge Tc-99m-sestamibi tomographic imaging. Global LV ejection fraction (LVEF) was measured at hospital discharge and 6 weeks later. The perfusion defect size was quantified and expressed as a percentage of the LV. The discharge perfusion defect, which is a measure of infarct size, was used to predict the 6-week LVEF for each patient based on a previously reported regression equation. Patients were classified into one of three groups depending on whether their LVEF at hospital discharge fell within, above or below one standard error (6.8 LVEF points) of the predicted 6-week LVEF. Results. There were 48 patients classified as having a “match” between function and infarct size; these patients demonstrated no significant change in LVEF at 6 weeks. There were 21 patients (25%) classified as “mismatch stunned” who had discharge LVEFs lower than those predicted by infarct size. These patients demonstrated a significant improvement in mean LVEF at 6 weeks (mean [±SD] discharge LVEF 0.41 ± 0.08, 6-week LVEF 0.47 ± 0.10; p = 0.003). Fifteen patients (18%) were classified as “mismatch-hyperkinetic.” The mean LVEF for these patients significantly declined at 6 weeks (discharge LVEF 0.64 ± 0.06, 6-week LVEF 0.58 ± 0.09; p = 0.002). There was a marked increase in LVEF within the infarct zone (8 ± 15 LVEF points; p = 0.03) for patients predicted to have stunning and a marked decline in LVEF outside the infarct zone (9 ± 15 LVEF points; p = 0.06) in patients predicted to have hyperkinesia. Both discharge LVEF (p Conclusions. Perfusion imaging with Tc-99m-sestamibi can identify post-MI patients at hospital discharge in whom LV function is discordant with the measured infarct size. Patients with stunning have late increases in LVEF; patients with hyperkinesia have late decreases. This methodology, performed at discharge, is predictive of late changes in LV function.
Increased spontaneous erythrocyte rosette formation of feline lymphocytes preincubated at 37° C

Preincubation of feline peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) in complete medium at 37 degrees C for up to 24 h resulted in as much as a 5.5-fold increase in the per cent of T cells detectable by spontaneous E rosette formation with guinea pig erythrocytes, as compared to non-preincubated PBL. Under these same conditions, the percent of B cells, detected by EAC rosette formation, remained unchanged. Preincubation with either thymosin or levamisole caused no increase in E rosettes other than that seen with complete medium alone. The preincubation-associated increase in E rosettes was temperature dependent, independent of the source of serum in the preincubation medium, not influenced by the lymphocyte isolation procedure, and not observed when feline thymocytes were tested in place of PBL. No increase in functional activity, assayed by phytomitogen-induced lymphocyte blastogenesis, was observed in preincubated as compared to non-preincubated PBL. These results suggested either a non-specific unmasking, or the differentiation and acquisition, of E receptors by feline PBL during the preincubation procedure.
Sensitivity of spores of Bacillus subtilis and Clostridium sporogenes PA 3679 to combinations of high hydrostatic pressure and other processing parameters

The combined effects of pressure, temperature, pH and the presence of nisin or sucrose laurate on the survival of spores of Bacillus subtilis 168 and Clostridium sporogenes PA 3679 were investigated. Spore populations of PA 3679 were reduced by 2.5-log10 when exposed to 404 megapascals (MPa) at 25°C, pH 4.0 for 30 min, but the same treatment at pH 7.0 resulted in a <0.5-log10 reduction in spore counts. Pressurization of B. subtilis spores at 70°C, pH 6.0 or 7.0 for 15 min at 404 MPa resulted in a 5-log10 reduction as compared to a <0.5-log10 reduction for the same pressurization treatment at 25°C. For the inactivation of spores of B. subtilis and PA 3679, the addition of nisin to the plating medium appeared to be synergistic in some instances when combined with pressurization at elevated temperatures and reduced pH. B. subtilis 168 was resistant to 0.1% sucrose laurate, but when combined at ≤6.0 pH with a 15-min treatment of 404 MPa at 45°C, a dramatic synergistic effect eliminated spore suspensions of 1×106/ml.
Study on TiAl2-based ternary (Fe or Ni) titanium aluminides

Several ternary alloys were designed to help understand the type of substitution and the nature of transformation in L12-type ternary (Fe or Ni) titanium aluminides. X-ray powder diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy and microhardness measurements were used to delineate the phases present in arc-melted alloys that were annealed at 1300 K for 10 days. The results of this study show that, in L12 type ternary (Fe, Ni) titanium aluminides, Fe or Ni substitutes for Ti, and these materials are TiAl2-based, contrary to previous assumptions.
The pathogenesis of calyceal diverticular calculi

Controversy exists over whether metabolic factors or urinary stasis predominate in the pathogenesis of calyceal diverticular calculi. We performed a study to better define the effects urinary stasis and metabolic abnormalities have in the pathogenesis of calyceal diverticular stones. Twenty-nine patients who underwent percutaneous treatment of calyceal diverticular calculi were studied. All patients underwent 24 h urine collection to evaluate metabolic risk factors. In three patients, urine was sampled directly from the diverticulum for metabolic studies. The urinary stone risk parameters of the patients with calyceal diverticular stones (Tic SF) were similar to those of a well-characterized cohort of calcium oxalate stone formers (CaOx SF). When compared to a group of normal people, the Tic SF and CaOx SF were significantly more hypercalciuric and their urine was significantly more supersaturated with calcium oxalate. Urine aspirated directly from the diverticulum had the lowest SSCaOx when compared to ipsilateral and contralateral renal pelves. The urinary risk profiles of patients with diverticular calculi are similar to those of CaOx SF, suggesting a metabolic etiology of diverticular stones. However, the SS CaOx of urine aspirated directly from the diverticula is significantly lower than that of the renal pelves; these data support the hypothesis that urinary stasis significantly contributes to the pathogenesis of calyceal diverticular calculi. Taken together, it seems likely that calyceal diverticular calculi arise from a combination of metabolic abnormalities and urinary stasis.
Activation of Downstream Signals by the Long Form of the Leptin Receptor

The adipocyte-derived hormone leptin signals the status of body energy stores by activating the long form of the leptin receptor (LRb). Activation of LRb results in the activation of the associated Jak2 tyrosine kinase and the transmission of downstream phosphotyrosine-dependent signals. We have investigated the signaling function of mutant LRb intracellular domains under the control of the extracellular erythropoietin (Epo) receptor. By using this system, we confirm that two tyrosine residues in the intracellular domain of murine LRb become phosphorylated to mediate LRb signaling; Tyr985 controls the tyrosine phosphorylation of SHP-2, and Tyr1138 controls STAT3 activation. We furthermore investigated the mechanisms by which LRb controls downstream ERK activation and c-fos and SOCS3 message accumulation. Tyr985-mediated recruitment of SHP-2 does not alter tyrosine phosphorylation of Jak2 or STAT3 but results in GRB-2 binding to tyrosine-phosphorylated SHP-2 and is required for the majority of ERK activation during LRb signaling. Tyr985 and ERK activation similarly mediate c-fos mRNA accumulation. In contrast, SOCS3 mRNA accumulation requires Tyr1138-mediated STAT3 activation. Thus, the two LRb tyrosine residues that are phosphorylated during receptor activation mediate distinct signaling pathways as follows: SHP-2 binding to Tyr985 positively regulates the ERK → c-fospathway, and STAT3 binding to Tyr1138 mediates the inhibitory SOCS3 pathway.
Vortex Model Based Adaptive Flight Control Using Synthetic Jets

Presented at the AIAA Guidance Navigation and Control Conference, Chicago, Illinois, August, 2009.
Finite-time blow-up in dynamical systems

Abstract A new method to detect finite-time blow-up in systems of ordinary differential equations is presented. This simple algorithmic procedure is based on the analysis of singularities in complex time and amounts to checking the real-valuedness of the leading order term in the asymptotic series describing the behavior of the general solution around movable singularities. Illustrative examples and an application to a magneto-hydrodynamic problem are given.
The impact of menus and command-level feedback on learners' acquisition of data base language skills

The purpose of this study was to determine whether providing menus and postactive feedback of command-level syntax can facilitate the acquisition of formal language skills by novice learners. Two groups of students, one of which received training in a menu version of dBASE III Plus and the other of which received instruction in a command version, were asked to complete data base file maintenance and query tasks. Measures comparing the performance of the two groups on a post-test were completion of tasks, number of syntactical errors, and number of semantic errors.According to the results, students learning the command version of dBASE III Plus were able to accomplish more tasks successfully than students using the menu version with postactive feedback of command syntax. In addition, the group using the menu driven made more syntactic errors than the group using the command version. The difference between the number of semantic errors made by members of the two groups was not significant. The researchers made several recommendations for instruction and for further research.
6-Ketoprostaglandin F1 alpha and thromboxane B2 in isolated, blood-perfused lungs from monocrotaline pyrrole-treated rats.

Monocrotaline pyrrole (MCTP) causes pulmonary vascular injury and pulmonary hypertension in rats. Although the mechanism by which MCTP causes pulmonary hypertension is unknown, vasoconstriction may play a role. Thromboxane (Tx) A2 is a vasoconstrictor released from platelets and other blood cells. Following treatment with MCTP in vivo, the release of stable metabolites of TxA2 and prostacyclin [TxB2 and 6‐keto prostaglandin F1α (6‐keto‐PGF1α), respectively] was determined in isolated lungs perfused with blood. Early in the development of pulmonary hypertension, the concentrations of TxB2 and 6‐keto‐PCF1α in the effluent plasma of lungs from treated rats were not different from control rats. When pulmonary hypertension was well established, the concentration of TxB2 was higher in the effluent plasma of lungs from MCTP‐treated rats, although the concentration of 6‐keto‐PCF1α was not affected by treatment.
Reconstructing a Noisy Markov Chain Using Near-Neighbor Rules

Abstract An observer desires to record a realization of a stationary two-state Markov chain X, but experimental conditions are such that he instead sees a realization of an error sequence Y. The objective is to reconstruct X. For a simple parameterization of both the Markov chain and the error sequence, a class of near-neighbor reconstruction rules is proposed and investigated. When the values of the parameters are unspecified, estimates are suggested and their asymptotic properties investigated. We are then able to calculate the large sample probability of using the best of the near-neighbor rules under consideration.
Tunnel detection using Underground-Focusing spotlight SAR and rough surface estimation

Detection and imaging of tunnels in any given region of ground are possible because the air that fills them is materially different from anything else underground, but challenging because of the unknown variation of the ground surface and volumetric inhomogeneities. This work presents a new implementation of the Spotlight Synthetic Aperture Radar coupled with Underground Focusing (UF-SL-SAR) algorithm based on the estimation of the rough surface and the use of the full wave Method of Moments (MoM) for the spot focusing. It is demonstrated that this method is able to attenuate the rough soil effect and improve the tunnel detection.
Effects of ethanol on the contractile function of the heart : a review

Chronic ethanol consumption leads to a number of alterations in the contractile function of the heart and is a leading cause of cardiomyopathy. Ethanol also has an acute negative inotropic effect mediated by direct interaction with cardiac muscle cells, although this action is often masked by indirect actions resulting from enhanced release of catecholamines in vivo. This article reviews the effects of ethanol on the contractile function of the heart. The specific targets affected by ethanol in cardiac muscle cells are discussed in terms of potential mechanisms underlying the depressions of contractility resulting from both acute and chronic actions of ethanol.
Maximum flows and minimum cuts in the plane

A continuous maximum flow problem finds the largest t such that div v = t F(x, y) is possible with a capacity constraint ||(v 1, v 2)|| ? c(x, y). The dual problem finds a minimum cut ? S which is filled to capacity by the flow through it. This model problem has found increasing application in medical imaging, and the theory continues to develop (along with new algorithms). Remaining difficulties include explicit streamlines for the maximum flow, and constraints that are analogous to a directed graph.
Patterns of exploration in rats distinguish lisuride from lysergic acid diethylamide

In order to further validate a previously proposed animal model of the effects of LSD in humans, doses of 5, 15, 30 and 60 micrograms/kg lisuride (a non-hallucinogenic congener of LSD) were studied using a behavioral pattern monitor (BPM). The BPM provided both quantitative measures of crossovers, rearings, and holepokes and qualitative measures of spatial patterns of locomotion. A holeboard chamber connected to a homecage provided two test situations. Rats were tested either with (free exploration) or without access to the homecage (forced exploration). In both situations, lisuride exhibited a biphasic dose-response curve for horizontal locomotion (low dose suppression and high dose enhancement), while rearing was significantly reduced at all doses. Lisuride also produced a dose-dependent increase in the perseverative quality of locomotor patterns. A comparison of these results with our previous studies with lysergic acid diethalmide (LSD) indicate that, with the exception of rearings, lisuride fails to mimic LSD's characteristic effects on exploratory activity. Rather, lisuride exhibited many similarities to the dopamine angonist apomorphine.
Duration of initial heart rate assessment in Psychophysiology: current practices and implications.

Heart rate is a widely-used dependent variable in psychophysiological research. A survey of articles published in Psychophysiology during 1978, 1980, 1982, and 1984 revealed wide variation in procedures for obtaining “resting’ measurement of heart rate prior to administration of other stimuli or tasks. Duration of the baseline period at the beginning of 35 reported investigations was negatively correlated (r=−.64) with heart rates. Variations in duration of baseline measurement may influence some kinds of Type II errors such as the likelihood of detecting relative group differences in heart rate during more active stimulus-presentation or task periods. Alternative procedures (a minimum 15-min adaptation period prior to assessment, individualization of duration of baseline assessments) are suggested.
Atonal Homolog 1 Is Required for Growth and Differentiation Effects of Notch/γ-Secretase Inhibitors on Normal and Cancerous Intestinal Epithelial Cells

Background & Aims The atonal homolog 1 (Atoh1) transcription factor is required for intestinal secretory (goblet, Paneth, enteroendocrine) cell differentiation. Notch/γ-secretase inhibitors (GSIs) block proliferation and induce secretory cell differentiation in the intestine. We used genetic analyses of mice to determine whether Atoh1 mediates the effects of GSIs in normal and cancerous intestinal epithelia. Methods We studied mice with intestine-specific disruption of Atoh1 ( Atoh1 Δintestine ), the adenomatosis polyposis coli ( APC ) min mutation, both mutations ( Atoh1 Δintestine ; APC min ), or littermate controls; mice were given GSI or vehicle. Colorectal cancer (CRC) cell lines were treated with GSI or vehicle and with small hairpin RNAs to reduce ATOH1 . Differentiation and homeostasis were assessed by protein, RNA, and histologic analyses. Results GSIs failed to induce secretory cell differentiation or apoptosis or decrease proliferation of Atoh1-null progenitor cells, compared with wild-type cells. Exposure of APC min adenomas to GSIs decreased proliferation and increased secretory cell numbers in an Atoh1-dependent manner. In CRC cells treated with GSI, ATOH1 levels were correlated inversely with proliferation. ATOH1 was required for secretory cell gene expression in cell lines and in mice. Conclusions ATOH1 is required for all effects of GSIs in intestinal crypts and adenomas; Notch has no unique function in intestinal progenitors and cancer cells other than to regulate ATOH1 expression. Reducing ATOH1 activity might mitigate intestinal toxicity from systemic GSI therapy for nonintestinal diseases. Among gastrointestinal malignancies, ATOH1 mediates the effects of GSIs, so ATOH1 expression levels might predict responses to these inhibitors. We propose that only the subset of CRCs that retain ATOH1 expression will respond to GSIs.
Medication Adherence in Older Adults: A Qualitative Study

To effectively address medication adherence and improve cardiovascular health among older adults, a deeper understanding is needed of the barriers that this age group faces and approaches that would be most effective and feasible for improving adherence. We conducted a focus group study (n=25) in a diverse population of older adults with hypertension recruited from the Cohort Study of Medication Adherence in Older Adults (CoSMO). A structured guide was used to collect feedback on barriers to adherence and acceptability and feasibility of intervention strategies. The final coding framework outlines factors at the individual, relationship, health care system, and environmental or policy level which affect adherence in older adults, including memory, knowledge, attitudes and beliefs, side effects, social support, interaction with health care providers, and cost and convenience of medication filling. Patient responses highlighted the varied nature of barriers and the need for interventions which are both multi-faceted and tailored.
Water as green oxidant: a highly selective conversion of organosilanes to silanols with water

Selective hydrolytic oxidation of organohydrosilanes was achieved with water in the presence of Pt-nanoparticle catalyst. The selectivity of the process was established by NMR analysis. In addition, various Pt-based catalysts were screened to compare the activity and selectivity with Pt-nanoparticles catalysis. The method was equally applicable to hydrosilanes bearing unsaturated functional groups, which led to corresponding silanols under mild reaction conditions without formation of any side products. Pt-nanoparticle catalysis was studied in details using UV–vis, TEM and mercury poisoning experiments during the transformation. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.