cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of antibiotics on respiration in human cells.

Extract: Chloramphenicol (CAP), chloramphenicol succinate (CAP-S), tetracycline (TET), and erythromycin (EM) inhibited synthesis of a mitochondrial enzyme, cytochrome oxidase, in cultured human fibroblasts; the 50% inhibitory concentrations were 7.5, 13, 18, and 350 $mUM respectively, or 2.4, 4.1, 8, and 250 $mUg/ml. In fibroblasts grown in CAP-S, cytochrome oxidase declined exponentially with a half-life of approximately 2.0 days. Oxygen uptake, on the other hand, was unchanged for the first 24–48 hr of exposure to CAP-S, and then declined, but at a much slower rate than did cytochrome oxidase; after 7 days, cytochrome oxidase activity was 6% of the control value, whereas oxygen uptake was 50% of control. From the kinetic data we conclude that cytochrome oxidase is not normally rate-limiting in cellular respiration, but that, after a period of exposure to CAP-S, an enzyme whose synthesis is inhibited by CAP-S becomes rate-limiting. This enzyme is not cytochrome oxidase, but more likely another component of the respiratory chain. Both CAP and TET inhibited cytochrome oxidase accumulation in non-growing as well as in growing fibroblasts, with enzyme levels declining to 50% of control values in 48 hr; after that time, a new, lower steady state level of enzyme was attained. Oxygen uptake was not inhibited in fibroblasts by short (4-hr) exposure to CAP, CAP-S or TET in concentrations up to 1 mM. Speculation: Antibiotics which act by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis also inhibit mitochondrial enzyme synthesis in virtually all eukaryotic organisms and cells. The rarity of obvious clinical sequellae in patients receiving these agents is explained by the fact that cytochrome oxidase and other components of the respiratory chain, the synthesis of which is inhibited by these agents, are not normally rate-limiting in cellular respiration. After prolonged exposure to these antibiotics, a rate-limiting level of a component of the respiratory chain is reached, but its activity declines slowly and the restriction in respiratory capacity is consequently modest.
Commentary on "Low Proliferative Rate of Invasive Node-Negative Breast Cancer Predicts for a Favorable Outcome: A Prospective Evaluation of 669 Patients"

By the 1990 NIH Consensus, recognition of the increased risk of recurrence in the node-negative subset of patients led to recommendations for adjuvant treatment in patients at high risk of relapse as defined by unfavorable prognostic factors.4 A useful prognostic factor was required to be 1) significant with independent predictive value validated by clinical testing; 2) feasible, reproducible, and available with quality control; and 3) readily interpretable. In addition to the established factors of size, receptor status, nuclear grade, and histology, proliferative rate was included with the caveat that while it correlated with prognosis, up to 25% of specimens were not technically evaluable and quality control of this technical procedure was of concern. William McGuire published a table in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute listing established and investigational prognostic factors.5 The table format suggested that optimal future treatment decisions, especially for these nodenegative patients, could be made based less on hand-wringing than on scientific evidence by using a simple checklist – somewhat like the guidelines on the order sheets many of us use to write intravenous hyperalimentation. In this, Dr. McGuire anticipated Dr. Richard Klausner's concept of tumor
Predicting the time to recall computer command abbreviations

A GOMS theory of stimulus-response compatibility is shown to predict response-time performance on a command/abbreviation encoding task. Working with parameters that were set by an earlier study and which have rational, task-meaningful interpretations as mapping, motor, perception and retrieval operators, zero-parameter predictions were made that fit the observed performance with r2 = 0.776 (p
Infrared spectroscopy of hydrogen in annealed zinc oxide

Abstract Zinc oxide (ZnO) has shown great promise as a wide band gap semiconductor with optical, electronic, and mechanical applications. First-principles investigations by C. G. Van de Walle (Phys. Rev. Lett. 85 (2000) 1012) suggest that hydrogen may act as a shallow donor in ZnO. These same predictions also apply to deuterium (D). Using IR spectroscopy we have observed O–H and O–D stretch modes at 3326.3 and 2470.3 cm −1 , respectively, in the same sample at a temperature of 14 K . These frequencies are in good agreement with the theoretical predictions for hydrogen and deuterium in an antibonding configuration. We have also performed preliminary polarization measurements at room temperature showing that the dipole of the O–H complex does not lie parallel to the c-axis of wurtzite ZnO.
The effects of alcohol on escape learning and on regular and punished extinction in a self-punitive situation with rats

The effects of alcohol on aversively motivated locomotor behavior were examined using female rats in a short straight alleyway. A 2 by 2 by 2 factorial design included alcohol and no-alcohol conditions during escape training, and punishment or no punishment and alcohol or no alcohol during extinction of the escape response. Alcohol was found to interfere with acquisition of the escape response, to counteract the facilitatory effects of shock punishment, and to enhance performance during nonpunished extinction. The results are congruent with a traditional conditioned fear theory, amended by the notion that only partial fear responses are evoked under an inhibiting effect of alcohol. The results are also discussed in terms of state-dependency conceptions, with the addition of cue distinctiveness contributing to motivational and/or associational effects of alcohol.
Measuring communicative performance with the FAPCI instrument: Preliminary results from normal hearing and cochlear implanted children

Abstract Objective : To develop preliminary “growth curves” of Functioning after Pediatric Cochlear Implantation (FAPCI) scores using a cross-sectional sample of normal hearing children and to compare these curves to trajectories of FAPCI scores in children receiving cochlear implants. Methods : Quantile regression was used to develop growth curves from the FAPCI scores of a cross-sectional sample of 82 normal hearing children (age range 7 months–5 years). Trajectories of FAPCI scores from a longitudinal cohort of 75 children with cochlear implants (age range 1–5 years) were compared to these growth curves. Results : FAPCI scores were positively associated with increasing age in normal hearing children with a rapid increase in scores observed at earlier ages followed by a plateau at age 3 years. FAPCI trajectories for cochlear-implanted children varied with age at implantation and did not reach a plateau until age 5–6 years. Conclusion : Normal hearing children demonstrated increasing FAPCI scores with age, and these preliminary growth curves allow for the interpretation of a cochlear-implanted child's FAPCI scores in comparison to normal hearing children. Additional research using a larger, longitudinal cohort of normal hearing children will be needed to develop definitive normative FAPCI trajectories.
HHMI's attention to Wiley's lab staff.

The unexplained disappearance of Don Wiley has been extremely painful for his many colleagues and friends, as J. Gewolb conveyed very well in his News of the Week article “Lab's fate uncertain as search continues” (14 Dec., p. 2265). There were, however, some misunderstandings conveyed in the article. Gewolb says that the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) soon “may have to terminate funding of the HHMI investigator, a step that will disrupt the lives of some two dozen young scientists in Wiley's lab,” and, further, that HHMI “has a policy of speedy terminations when an investigator dies.” On the contrary, HHMI does not take precipitous action in such cases, but works to cushion the blow for the investigator's research team. We put the highest priority on treating each person involved as an individual facing a unique set of personal and career challenges. The recent news that Don's body has been found in a tributary of the Mississippi River brings a great deal of grief, but in no way diminishes our commitment to the members of his laboratory. Editors' Note We offer our condolences to Professor Don Wiley's family, friends, and colleagues.
Functional effects of reducing and carboxymethylating the single disulfide bond in bovine carboxypeptidase A.

Abstract Reduction of the single disulfide bond in bovine carboxypeptidase A (Cox) and alkylation of the resulting thiols yielded a modified enzyme containing 1.8 carboxymethylcysteine residues per molecule which exhibited 97 and 80% of native esterase and peptidase activities, respectively. Effects of inhibitors and an activator on peptidase activity were similar to those observed with the native enzyme suggesting minimal alteration of the active site. However, unlike the native enzyme, the modified enzyme underwent rapid inactivation above 15 °C. Similar results were obtained on reduction and alkylation of the single allotype, carboxypeptidase Aβval. In contrast, modification of carboxypeptidase A (Anson) resulted in lower carboxymethylcysteine contents and large losses in enzymatic activity. This difference is interpreted in terms of the lower conformational stability of carboxypeptidase Aγ, the main constituent of carboxypeptidase A (Anson) [Petra and Neurath (1968) Biochemistry8, 2466] .
Organizational safety culture/climate and worker compliance with hazardous drug guidelines: lessons from the blood-borne pathogen experience.

Background: The health risks posed to health care workers (HCW) handling antineoplastic and other hazardous drugs (HDs) are well established. However, despite nearly 20 years of professional practice standards, compliance with safe handling procedures is poor. Method: We present documentation of undercompliance with recommended safety procedures for HDs. Then, we examine a similar problem, HCW compliance with blood-borne pathogen universal precautions (UP) and its partial solution tied to the strength of a facility’s safety culture. Lessons learned here may be applicable to the HD issue. Results: It is proposed that analyzing a facility’s safety culture may enlarge our understanding of the barriers contributing to HD under-compliance and suggest strategies to improve it. Conclusion: The Safety Culture paradigm offers many targets for intervention to enhance and promote worker compliance with safe HD handling practices thus mitigating internal exposure.
HIV-1, Methamphetamine and astrocyte glutamate regulation: Combined excitotoxic implications for neuro-AIDS

Glutamate, the most abundant excitatory transmitter in the brain can lead to neurotoxicity when not properly regulated. Excitotoxicity is a direct result of abnormal regulation of glutamate concentrations in the synapse, and is a common neurotoxic mediator associated with neurodegenerative disorders. It is well accepted that methamphetamine (METH), a potent central nervous stimulant with high abuse potential, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 are implicated in the progression of neurocognitive malfunction. Both have been shown to induce common neurodegenerative effects such as astrogliosis, compromised blood brain barrier integrity, and excitotoxicity in the brain. Reduced glutamate uptake from neuronal synapses likely leads to the accumulation of glutamate in the extracellular spaces. Astrocytes express the glutamate transporters responsible for majority of the glutamate uptake from the synapse, as well as for vesicular glutamate release. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms of astrocyte-mediated excitotoxicity in the context of METH and HIV-1 are undefined. Topics reviewed include dysregulation of the glutamate transporters, specifically excitatory amino acid transporter-2, metabotropic glutamate receptor(s) expression and the release of glutamate by vesicular exocytosis. We also discuss glutamate concentration dysregulation through astrocytic expression of enzymes for glutamate synthesis and metabolism. Lastly, we discuss recent evidence of various astrocyte and neuron crosstalk mechanisms implicated in glutamate regulation. Astrocytes play an essential role in the neuropathologies associated with METH/HIV-1-induced excitotoxicity. We hope to shed light on common cellular and molecular pathways astrocytes share in glutamate regulation during drug abuse and HIV-1 infection.
Decreased blood flow through rat testis after intratesticular injection of PGF2α

Abstract The blood flow through the testes was calculated for 26 rats after measurements of the clearance rate of intratesticularly injected 133 Xenon dissolved in saline. The testicular blood flow in the rats was measured immediately after injection of 1 or 10 μg PGF 2α into each testis, as well as one and four weeks later. The range of group mean flows in the contral groups was 27.5–37.0 ml/100 g/min. The injection of 1 or 10 μg PGF 2α immediately decreased (p 2α - treated groups with regard to the weight of the adrenals, testes, prostate gland and seminal vesicles, or in the histological appearance of the testes. Unilateral injection of 10 μg PGF 2α decreased the flow through the injected testis and tended to decrease the flow through the non-injected testis.
Molecular genetics of hepatic methionine adenosyltransferase deficiency.

Abstract Hepatic methionine adenosyltransferase (MAT) deficiency is caused by mutations in the human MAT1A gene that abolish or reduce hepatic MAT activity that catalyzes the synthesis of S -adenosylmethionine from methionine and ATP. This genetic disorder is characterized by isolated persistent hypermethioninemia in the absence of cystathionine β-synthase deficiency, tyrosinemia, or liver disease. Depending on the nature of the genetic defect, hepatic MAT deficiency can be transmitted either as an autosomal recessive or dominant trait. Genetic analyses have revealed that mutations identified in the MAT1A gene only partially inactivate enzymatic activity, which is consistent with the fact that most hepatic MAT-deficient individuals are clinically well. Two hypermethioninemic individuals with null MAT1A mutations have developed neurological problems, including brain demyelination, although this correlation is by no means absolute. Presently, it is recommended that a DNA-based diagnosis should be performed for isolated hypermethioninemic individuals with unusually high plasma methionine levels to assess if therapy aimed at the prevention of neurological manifestations is warranted. Published 1999 by Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.
Transport Processes in Random Arrays of Cylinders. I. Thermal Conduction

A numerical method is developed that takes into account the many‐particle interactions in a rigorous manner to determine the effective thermal conductivity Km of a composite medium consisting of parallel circular cylinders of thermal conductivity αk suspended in a matrix of conductivity k. Numerical results for Km are presented for a wide range of α and φ, the area fraction of the cylinders, after averaging over several computer‐generated random arrays of cylinders. The results obtained via this exact method are compared with those of various approximate analytical methods to assess their utility in predicting Km.
Five recent economic revolutions

In recent years, some changes in economic behavior and institutions are fundamental enough to be called revolutions. Five of these are discussed briefly. They are the increasing financial disintermediation in France, the U.K., and the U.S.; the rise of global firms; the increasing need for international economic regulation; diminishing brand loyalty on the part of consumers, especially in food items; and the growing tendency to admit labor representatives to managerial functions. These changes are described briefly in each case and some of their implications for economics are suggested. Questions about the implications are raised.
Selected Social Gerontology Theories and Older Adult Leisure Involvement: A Review of the Literature

Selected studies conducted by leisure researchers about the leisure involvement of older adults are reviewed and implications are drawn for readers concerned with aging and leisure. To set the tone, the activity and disengagement theories of aging are discussed within the overall conceptual framework ofrole theory. The range of contributions found in recent leisure literature related to aging and activity involvement, from testimonials to atheoretical works to empirical studies, is then discussed. Shortcomings of the state of the art lead to the consideration of continuity theory as a fruitful avenue for leisure research within the role theory framework. Finally, some implications for further research and professional practice are highlighted.
Sooting Correlations for Premixed Flames

Abstract —Using a Bunsen-type burner in which the name temperature was controlled by nitrogen addition, the tendency of hydrocarbon fuels to form soot has been determined systematically. The effective sooting equivalence ratio reported is based on the stoichiometric relation in which the carbon and hydrogen in the fuel are converted to carbon monoxide and water. respectively, rather than the conventional equivalence ratio or the C/O ratio. The temperature effect is clearly shown by plotting the log of the effective equivalence ratio versus the reciprocal of the (adiabatic) flame temperature, and this dependency is similar for all fuels examined and is relatively weak. At a given flame temperature, an increase in either the number of carbon atoms or the C/H ratio in the fuel molecule increases the tendency to soot. These effects are attributed to the increased pyrolysis rate and the decreased oxidative attack, respectively. No significant effects are found with regard to the structure of the fuel molecule....
Response of Broiler Chickens to Low Level Intake of Polychorinated Biphenyl Isomers

Abstract Commercial-type broiler starter and finisher feeds containing 0, .1, 1.0, 5.0, 10.0, or 20.0 ppm of polychlorinated biphenyl isomers (PCBs) as Aroclor 1254 (Monsanto) were fed to male broiler chicks (Arbor Acres 70 × Cobb) from hatching to 8 weeks of age. Feed intake and body weights were recorded on a weekly basis. The birds were killed at 8 weeks of age and samples of leg and breast muscle and adipose tissue were removed from each bird for PCBs analysis by gas chromatography (Pesticide Anal. Manual, FDA, ’74). Linear log-log dose response curves with confidence limits were fitted to all data. There was a progressive, significant reduction in growth in response to increasing levels of PCBs fed. PCBs toxicity symptoms were seen at 10 and 20 ppm levels. All tissues showed significant, progressive accumulations of PCBs in response to increased dose.
Path analysis: A model for the development of scientific reasoning abilities in adolescents

A model was formulated and tested for the development of scientific reasoning abilities in adolescents. Piagetian theory provided the framework for choosing potential determinants of the dependent variable, scientific reasoning abilities. A model reflecting hypothesized causal relationships among determinants and with the dependent variable was developed a priori on the basis of theoretical and substantive reasoning. The hypothesized model was tested and revised using path analysis. Data from intact classes of middle-school (n = 101) and high-school (n = 89) students from an upper-middle-class suburb of a midwestern city revealed significant (p < 0.05) path coefficients for these variables and scientific reasoning abilities: age, I.Q., field dependence–independence, and experience. A path from locus of control to scientific reasoning abilities through field dependence-independence was also statistically significant. The revised model explained 61 percent of the variance in scientific reasoning abilities.
Hyperglycemia as a cardiovascular risk factor.

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus have a 2- to 4-fold increased risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) and a 4-fold increase in mortality from CHD. Intensive glycemic control has a more modest effect on reducing macrovascular complications than microvascular complications. Most likely, this is because the development of cardiovascular disease is multifactorial, and hyperglycemia is 1 of many risk factors. Epidemiologic data suggest that a glycosylated hemoglobin (A(1c)) level of < or =7% is reasonable to avoid or minimize the complications associated with type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that there is an increased risk of cardiovascular mortality before the onset of type 2 diabetes. The presence of CHD before the onset of clinical diabetes provides strong evidence for a strategy of diabetes prevention in at-risk patients. Data indicate that the atherogenic pattern of changes in the prediabetic state is seen primarily in insulin-resistant patients rather than in those with abnormally low insulin secretion. Therefore, strategies to prevent or treat type 2 diabetes should focus on improving insulin sensitivity. Clinical trials have demonstrated that lifestyle changes (e.g., diet and exercise) as well as use of metformin, acarbose, or troglitazone reduce the incidence of type 2 diabetes. Prevention of type 2 diabetes may be an important strategy to delay or prevent cardiovascular disease in many individuals.
Thermal expansion of MgO from a lattice dynamical shell model

Abstract The thermal expansion coefficient of MgO is calculated from a six parameter pressure dependent shell model.
Isoflurane increases the apparent agonist affinity of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor by reducing the microscopic agonist dissociation constant.

BACKGROUND Isoflurane increases the apparent agonist affinity of ligand-gated ion channels. This action reflects a reduction in the receptor's agonist dissociation constant and/or the preopen/open channel state equilibrium. To evaluate the effect of isoflurane on each of these kinetic constants in the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, the authors analyzed isoflurane's actions on (1) the binding of the fluorescent agonist Dns-C6-Cho to the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor's agonist self-inhibition site and (2) the desensitization kinetics induced by the binding of the weak partial agonist suberyldicholine. METHODS The dissociation constant for Dns-C6-Cho binding to the self-inhibitory site was determined using stopped-flow fluorescence spectroscopy. The values of the kinetic constants for agonist binding, channel gating, and desensitization were determined by modeling the suberyldicholine concentration-dependence of the apparent rate of desensitization. RESULTS Isoflurane did not significantly alter the dissociation constant for Dns-C6-Cho binding to the self-inhibitory site even at a concentration as high as 1.5 mM, the highest concentration studied. At this concentration, isoflurane substantially reduced the dissociation constant for suberyldicholine binding to its channel opening site by 97% from 17 +/- 5 microM to 0.5 +/- 0.2 microM, whereas the preopen/open channel state equilibrium was reduced only from 19.1 to 5 +/- 1. CONCLUSIONS Isoflurane increases the apparent agonist affinity of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor primarily by reducing the agonist dissociation constant of the site responsible for channel opening rather than altering channel gating kinetics.
Comorbid occurrence of liver and pancreas disease in United States military veterans.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: The clinical epidemiology of the comorbidity between liver and pancreas disease is unknown. The Patient Treatment File of the Department of Veterans Affairs contains the computerized records of all inpatients treated in 172 Department of Veterans Affairs hospitals distributed throughout the United States. This large database offers a unique opportunity to study the epidemiology of liver-pancreas comorbidity (LPC). METHODS: In a case-control study, 6,393 LPC cases were compared to 34,513 controls with alcoholic liver disease and liver cirrhosis alone and 68,038 controls without liver or pancreas disease. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to assess the joint influence of multiple risk factors on the occurrence of LPC. RESULTS: LPC occurred in 15.6% of patients with alcoholic liver disease and liver cirrhosis identified in the Patient Treatment File between 1990 and 1993. Compared to controls with liver disease alone, LPC cases were characterized by younger age (odds ratio = 0.88 per age decade, CI = 0.86–0.90) and African American (2.33, 2.18–2.48) or Hispanic (1.24, 1.12–1.38) ethnicity. Compared to controls with neither liver nor pancreas disease, LPC cases were characterized by male gender (1.67, 1.28–2.17), African American (1.41, 1.32–1.50) or Hispanic (2.04, 1.82–2.30) ethnicity, more frequent history of alcoholism (29.5, 26.7–32.6), and being divorced (1.35, 1.26–1.44). CONCLUSIONS: Comorbidity of liver and pancreas disease is relatively common in the veteran population. Such patients are more frequently divorced and of African American or Hispanic ethnicity, and present with a history of excessive alcoholism at a relatively young age.
Predictive analog-to-digital conversion for resistance to data outliers

Abstract We consider predictive source encoding, for analog-to-digital conversion, that is resistant to data outliers. We focus on a Gaussian stationary source, and we develop a sequence of outlier resistant source oncoders. The studied performance criteria include mean squared distortion and output entropy at the nominal Gaussian source, when data outliers are absent, as well as outlier resistance measures such as breakdown point and influence function. The proposed sequence of predictive encoders attains high resistance to data outliers, at the expense of some increase in mean squared distortion and differential entropy at the nominal Gaussian source.
Large lot zoning and subdivision costs: A test

Abstract This paper tests two hypotheses: (1) that large lot zoning is a binding constraint on the residential land market and (2) that subdivision costs are inversely related to lot size. The paper shows that, in general, the two hypotheses are not mutually exclusive but that they can be distinguished in the case of a test conducted across tracts of unsubdivided vacant land. A hedonic price model for vacant land is developed and then estimated using disaggregate data from a New York City suburb.
Evaluating the impact of interactive and entertaining educational conferences.

Adult learning theory suggests that meaningful engagement impacts learning. To evaluate the impact of resident-led interactive conferences on satisfaction, engagement and knowledge acquisition. A prospective study at a paediatric academic institution compared educational conferences in two formats. Control conferences were PowerPoint® lectures and intervention conferences included multimedia, audience participation and faculty mentorship. Learner and presenter satisfaction and learner engagement were assessed by post-conference surveys. Knowledge was assessed via pre- and post-conference open-ended questions; matched pre- and post-questions were analyzed. Control and intervention groups’ satisfaction and engagement were compared using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test. Comparison of proportion of learners with improved post-conference knowledge score was analyzed with the Chi square test. There were 181 control and 170 intervention surveys collected. Learners’ median satisfaction (4 vs. 5, p = .03) and engagement (4 vs. 5, p < .01) ratings improved in the intervention group. Presenters rated audience engagement higher during the intervention conferences (median 3 vs. 4, p = .01). Knowledge acquisition, compared for matched surveys only, was not significantly different between the groups. Learner and presenter satisfaction and learner engagement were higher for the interactive format. While knowledge acquisition was unchanged, greater satisfaction encourages the use of interactive conferences.
New developments in Internet-based delivery of MetOc data to Warfighters

Access and retrieval of meteorological and oceanographic data from heterogeneous sources in a distributed system presents many issues. Effective bandwidth utilization is important for any distributed system. In addition, specific issues need to be addressed in order to assimilate spatio-temporal data from multiple sources. These issues include resolution of differences in datum, map-projection and time coordinate. Reduction in the complexity of data formats is a significant factor for fostering interoperability. Simplification of training is important to promote usage of the distributed system. Here, we describe particular techniques that revolutionize the Internet-based delivery of MetOc data to address the needs of the Warfighter.
Schooling indicators during Mexico's "Lost decade"

Abstract The 1980s have been described as a “lost decade” for Latin America as a result of the sharp decline in income that followed the international debt crisis. Using the case of Mexico, this paper explores the impact of the lost decade on schooling indicators. This paper finds that falling opportunity costs in the 1980s improved schooling indicators at the same time that reductions in the level of national income worsened them. The net result of these opposing effects was relatively stagnant enrollment rates. Simulations suggest that Mexico's secondary school enrollments would have increased considerably, had the 1980s economy grown at rates even one-half of those experienced in the 1970s. Analyses of state panel data for this period reveal that continuation rates responded more strongly to economic conditions in poorer states, and that state schooling indicators were sensitive to urbanization, sectoral structure and school spending patterns among states. [JEL I21, O54]
Space-charge waves of bounded plasmas

The approximate phase characteristics of the space-charge waves in bounded plasmas are developed assuming the charge density to be statistically distributed. The influence which the correlation function of the charge distribution has on the phase characteristics is also found.
Energy proportional image sensors for continuous mobile vision

A hurdle to frequently performing mobile computer vision tasks is the high energy cost of image sensing. In particular, modern image sensors are not energy proportional; for low resolution and low frame rate capture, the image sensor consumes almost the same amount of energy as it does at high resolutions and high frame rates. We reveal two system-level energy proportional mechanisms: (i) using an optimal pixel clock frequency; (ii) entering low power standby mode between frames. These techniques can be implemented by the image sensor driver with minimal hardware adjustment. Further improvements can be made by designing sensors with heterogeneous hardware architectures. With energy proportionality, computer vision frameworks can be optimized for power consumption, continuously requesting low resolution frames with low energy while only occasionally using high energy to request high resolution frames. This will in turn enable low power continuous mobile vision applications.
Effects of PCBs, DDT, and Mercury Compounds upon Egg Production, Hatchability and Shell Quality in Chickens and Japanese Quail

Dietary polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), DDT and related compounds, in well controlled experiments, produced no detrimental effects upon egg shell quality in Single Comb White Leghorm chickens or in Japanese quail. PCBs caused some decrease in egg production and a drastic reduction in hatchability in chickens, but not in Japanese quail. Inorganic mercury as HgSO4 or HgCl2, at dietary levels up to 200 p.p.m. of Hg, had only small effects, if any, upon egg production, hatchability, shell quality, morbidity and mortality. However, methyl mercury chloride at levels which provided 10 or 20 mg. of Hg per kg. of diet caused severe effects upon egg weight, egg production, fertility, hatchability, egg shell strength, morbidity and mortality. The results of these experiments demonstrate that the decrease in egg shell quality which has occurred in eggs of White Leghorn hens over the past three decades is not due to contamination of commercial feeds with DDT or its derivatives, or with PCBs. The extent to which environmental contamination with methyl mercury is responsible for decreased egg shell strength in commercial laying hens, and possible synergistic relationships between methyl mercury, DDT, DDE and PCBs in reducing egg production, hatchability and shell strength, remain to be determined.
Optical measurements of dynamic adhesive forces between bacteria and protein-coated surfaces

ABSTRACT Bacterial adhesion to host tissue is an initial step in the infectious process. Staphylococcus aureus, a major human pathogen, has covalently anchored cell surface adhesins called microbial surface components recognizing adhesive matrix molecules (MSCRAMMs) which mediate specific adhesion to extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules. Understanding MSCRAMM binding is potentially useful in developing effective antibacterial drugs. In this study, optical tweezers were used in conjunction with a quadrant photodetector to measure adhesive forces between MSCRAMMs and surfaces coated with the ECM molecule fibronectin. Using a piezoelectrically driven stage, a fibronectin-coated microsphere adherent to a coverslip was brought into contact with a cell optically trapped at 830 nm. The microsphere was subsequently moved away from the cell, and a quadrant photodiode monitored the cell displacement from the trap center during the detachment process. The photodetector voltage signals were subsequently converted into the adhesive forces between MSCRAMMs and fibronectin based on a calibration using Stokes law for viscous drag. Optical detection of the trapped bead displacement allowed us to study both the dynamics of the detachment process and observe the effects of various loading rates. This technique can be extended to identify the contributions of various MSCRAMM domains to adhesion in order to develop new methods of treating infections. Keywords: bacterial adhesion, unbinding force, biofilm, extracellular matrix, infection, Staphylococcus aureus
Quality and outcomes of robotic lymphadenectomy for prostate cancer in obese and morbidly obese patients

RESULTS: Mean BMI among the 819 patients was 30kg/m2 (1852kg/m) with 421 of BMI 30kg/m, 358 obese, and 40 morbidly bese and no difference among groups in proportion of high-risk atients. Mean total operative time was 148min, 157min, and 78min for normal, obese, and morbidly obese patients, respectively p 0.05). Estimated blood loss was 109mL, 128mL and 156mL p 0.05) with transfusion rate of only 0.4% and none in the moridly obese group. Mean hospitalization was 1.0d in all three groups. ean nodal yields were 9.6, 9.9, and 10.6 nodes for normal, obese nd morbidly obese patients (p NS). Extended PLND was perormed in 18%, 19%, and 15% with mean yields of 16.7, 15.3, and 16.5 odes, respectively (p NS). Node positivity was identified in 5.2%, .7%, and 12.5% (p NS). Complications of PLND occurred in 2%, %, and 5%, which were mostly symptomatic lymphoceles.
Steroids in second degree caustic burns of the esophagus: A systematic pooled analysis of fifty years of human data: 1956–2006

Background and objective. Although steroids are usually withheld in grades I and III esophageal burns, controversy continues regarding their use in grade II burns. Two analyses, including data from 1956–1991 and 1991–2003, respectively, disagreed in their therapeutic recommendations. Our objective is to re-evaluate the usefulness of steroids in grade II burns. Methods. The two previous analyses and their references were reviewed. Medline was searched for additional recent human reports. Inclusion criteria were endoscopically documented grade II burns and at least ten days of steroids or no steroids. Pooled data were evaluated by X2 test with α set at 0.05. Results. Prior analyses identified 12 studies, and one additional study was found during the literature search for a total of 328 patients. 30/244 patients receiving steroids and 16/84 patients who did not receive steroids developed strictures, respectively. This difference was not statistically significant. Heterogeneity of the data prevented formal me...
Recovering structure from many low-information 2-D images of randomly-oriented samples

New sources and detectors are allowing scientists to look at matter with finer spatial and temporal resolutions. These experiments can produce data that are a series of severely Poisson limited snap-shots of randomly oriented samples. An extreme case of this is destructive imaging of single particles with an x-ray free-electron laser – many frames are needed for a reconstruction, but there is no a priori information associated with the frames about particle orientation. We use Cornell's Pixel Array Detectors (PADs) to examine the practical limits of an expectation maximization (EM) algorithm designed to deal with extremely low-fluence data, having just a few photons per frame. We demonstrate image reconstruction of a high-contrast sample using hundreds of thousands of randomly oriented frames with an average x-ray photon occupancy as low as 2.5 photons per frame. Practical aspects of reducing low-fluence data, such as thresholding and noise limits, will be discussed for high- and low-contrast samples; and data collected in the presence of significant background signal.
A Near Packing of Two Graphs

Let G1 and G2 be two graphs on n vertices with ?(G1)=d1 and ?(G2)=d2. A packing of G1 and G2 is a set L={H1, H2} such that H1?G1, H2?G2, and H1 and H2 are edge disjoint subgraphs of Kn. B. Bollobas and S. E. Eldridge (1978, J. Combin. Theory Ser. B25, 105?124) made the following conjecture. If (d1+1)·(d1+1)?n+1, then there is a packing of G1 and G2. The degree condition stated in this conjecture could not be weakened, since there exist two such graphs for which (d1+1)·(d2+1)=n+2, and no packing is possible. N. Sauer and J. Spencer (1978, J. Combin. Theory Ser. B25, 295?302) proved that if d1·d2<12n then there is a packing of G1 and G2. In this paper, a generalization and extension of the Sauer?Spencer result is proven. We define a near packing of degree d of two graphs of order n as a generalization of a packing. In a near packing of degree d, the copies of the two graphs may overlap so that the maximum degree of the subgraph defined by the edges common to both copies is d. Thus a near packing of degree 0 is a packing. The result can then be stated as follows. Let a?R+. If d1·d2?an, then there exists a near packing of degree d of G1 and G2 for some d<2a. Furthermore, if (d1+1)·(d2+1)?n+1, then the maximum degree d of the subgraph defined by the edges common to both the copy of G1 and the copy of G2 is at most 1 and its size is no larger than n2+1?d1?d2.
Basal Bioenergetic Abnormalities in Skeletal Muscle from Ryanodine Receptor Malignant Hyperthermia-susceptible R163C Knock-in Mice

Malignant hyperthermia (MH) and central core disease in humans have been associated with mutations in the skeletal ryanodine receptor (RyR1). Heterozygous mice expressing the human MH/central core disease RyR1 R163C mutation exhibit MH when exposed to halothane or heat stress. Considering that many MH symptoms resemble those that could ensue from a mitochondrial dysfunction (e.g. metabolic acidosis and hyperthermia) and that MH-susceptible mice or humans have a higher than normal cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration at rest, we evaluated the role of mitochondria in skeletal muscle from R163C compared with wild type mice under basal (untriggered) conditions. R163C skeletal muscle exhibited a significant increase in matrix Ca2+, increased reactive oxygen species production, lower expression of mitochondrial proteins, and higher mtDNA copy number. These changes, in conjunction with lower myoglobin and glycogen contents, Myh4 and GAPDH transcript levels, GAPDH activity, and lower glucose utilization suggested a switch to a compromised bioenergetic state characterized by both low oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis. The shift in bioenergetic state was accompanied by a dysregulation of Ca2+-responsive signaling pathways regulated by calcineurin and ERK1/2. Chronically elevated resting Ca2+ in R163C skeletal muscle elicited the maintenance of a fast-twitch fiber program and the development of insulin resistance-like phenotype as part of a metabolic adaptation to the R163C RyR1 mutation.
On the possibility of excitation heating of ions to high temperature.

Cyclic or chainlike inelastic collision processes are invoked as an hypothesis to explain the grossly non-thermodynamic properties of energetic carbon and gas-fed carbon arcs confined by magnetic fields. Elastic collisions between the fast electrons (v− > v+ but E− ≪ E+) and the hot ions appear to be only about one-tenth as efficient a process for heating the ions as the proposed multiple inelastic collision process, which we call excitation-heating. In addition, a revised treatment of the rate of energy transfer from hot carbon ions to the very cold electrons (v− < v+) reduces the conventional ion cooling rate by a factor of about 6.
Deformation and Damage in Solder During Fast Cyclic Loading

Experimental and numerical studies on fast cyclic loading of eutectic tin-lead solder and relevant micromechanical issues are presented. High-frequency twin-lap shear tests on solder joints show cracking inside the solder but often connecting the intruded tips of the intermetallic. Finite element modeling was carried out to study the effect of intermetallic morphology. Without the influence of local phase coarsening, the intrusion of intermetallic into the solder alloy is seen to trigger strain localization which promotes failure. The effect of local phase coarsening was also studied numerically, taking into account the individual phase arrangement. A coarser phase structure always shows a faster accumulation of local plastic strain, leading to early failure. Such results, in agreement with typical thermomechanical fatigue features, cannot be obtained from the traditional argument of strength vs. microstructural size. Modeling of the entire lap-shear specimen was also conducted for the purpose of quantifying the deformation behavior. The exact geometry of solder is found to play a dominant role in affecting the shear response.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Quantitative and qualitative lipid correlation in experimental endogenous hyperlipemia.

The reversible endogenous hyperlipemia in dogs, elicited by the detergent Triton which was given intravenously, was used to study the interrelations of serum lipids. In the cholesterol ester fraction an increase occurs in both monounsaturated and in saturated fatty acids, excepting myristic; while a decrease occurs in polyunsaturated fatty acids. The fatty acids of cholesterol esters of normal dogs contain 22% oleic acid, and only 24% when serum lipids are increased to almost double their normal value (TC=400–500 mg/100 ml). However there is a critical level above which a rapid rise in oleic acid occurs and, in severe hyperlipemia (TC=1500 ±430 mg/100 ml), this acid constitutes almost half of the esterified fatty acid component.
Determination of Low Concentrations of the Azo-Dye Complex of Nitrite in Fresh Water and Seawater Using Surface-Enhanced Resonance Raman Spectroscopy (SERRS)

A highly sensitive and selective method for the determination of low concentrations of nitrite in aqueous solutions using surface-enhanced resonance Raman spectroscopy (SERRS) is presented. The SERRS-active substrate was silver hydrosol. In order to induce the SERRS effect, nitrite was transformed into a colored product (an azo dye) by a standard chemical reaction. The detection limit for nitrite is 0.02 nM in distilled water, and analytical calibration curves yield straight lines in the concentration range below 30 nM. The sensitivity of this method is better than that of colorimetry and other techniques such as chemiluminescence. This improvement indicates that SERRS shows great promise as a useful analytical tool for trace analysis of nitrite and dyes.
Community and ecosystem consequences of giant knotweed (Polygonum sachalinense) invasion into riparian forests of western Washington, USA

Abstract The invasive, non-native herb, giant knotweed (Polygonum sachalinense), is becoming increasingly common in riparian corridors throughout North America and Europe. Despite its prevalence, there has been limited study of its ecological impacts. We investigated the effects of knotweed invasion on the abundance and diversity of forest understory plants, and the quantity and nutrient quality of leaf-litter inputs, in riparian forests in western Washington, USA. Among 39 sampling locations, knotweed stem density ranged from 0 to 8.8 m−2. Richness and abundance (cover or density) of native herbs, shrubs, and juvenile trees (⩽3 m tall) were negatively correlated with knotweed density. Where knotweed was present (>5.3 stems m−2), litter mass of native species was reduced by 70%. Carbon:nitrogen ratio of knotweed litter was 52:1, a value 38–58% higher than that of native woody species (red alder [Alnus rubra] and willow [Salix spp.]). Resorption of foliar N prior to leaf drop was 76% in knotweed but only 5–33% among native woody species. By displacing native species and reducing nutrient quality of litter inputs, knotweed invasion has the potential to cause long-term changes in the structure and functioning of riparian forests and adjacent aquatic habitats.
Flutter of infinitely long plates and shells. I - Plate.

The aeroelastic stability of an infinitely long panel of finite width with the upper surface exposed to an in viscid flow is examined. The panel behavior is accounted for by small deflection plate theory, whereas the aerodynamic forces acting on the panel are described by the classical linearized, potential theory. The panel is assumed to be simply supported along the side edges, although other edge conditions may be considered in a similar manner (e.g., clamped edges). Rather extensive numerical results have been obtained for flutter velocity (and dynamic pressure) indicating the effects of Mach number, air/panel mass ratio, and viscous structural damping. A comparison of the present results with those obtained by previous investigators for a long, narrow panel (using a more elaborate method that accounts for the finite length) shows some discrepancy between the two results.
Extended Pincus Theorems and Convergence of Simulated Annealing

Pincus’ 1968 formula for the (unique) global minimum of a continuous function on a compact set in E n is extended to finite multiple optima and to discrete and special variants. The impact of these on associated ergodic irreducible aperiodic Markov chain computation (Pincus 1970)—currently called ‘simulated annealing’—is exemplified and assessed leading to grave concern about what current simulated annealing processes may converge to, instead of optima.