cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the amygdaloid and olfactory electrographic response in the cat after toxic dosage of lidocaine.

Abstract Evidence has been presented concerning the effects of afferent inputs on the amygdaloid hypersynchronous electrographic discharge in the cat after toxic doses of lidocaine HCl. The study was divided into three parts consisting of chronically implanted animals, cerveau isole preparations and midbrain-deafferented preparations with the reticular core intact. A brief description of each preparation is included. From the results of this study these conclusions can be drawn: 1. 1. The electrographic pattern change is not evident in high midbrain transected (cerveau isole) cat preparations. 2. 2. The pattern change in the midbrain-deafferented cat preparation (with reticular core intact) is essentially identical to that seen in the normal chronic cat. 3. 3. Olfactory inputs are essential to this hypersynchronous amygdaloid pattern change, with this alteration appearing initially in the olfactory apparatus, then spreading synchronously to the amygdala and hippocampus. From this study, it would appear that possible noxious afferent inputs are not implicated but that olfaction is involved in the genesis of this response to toxic doses of lidocaine HCl. It is also apparent that either an activated cerebrum or an intact reticular core is essential to the genesis of this electrographic pattern change. Based on these findings, one may conclude that the amygdaloid hypersynchronous electrographic response to toxic levels of local anesthetics results from a lowering of the threshold of the olfactory system and subsequent lowering of the amygdaloid threshold to these olfactory inputs by lidocaine HCl.
Social Psychology, Science, and History: So What?

Reacting to papers in a symposium stimulated by an exchange between Gergen (1973), who argued that social psychology is primarily an historical inquiry, and Schlenker (1974), who defended the traditional scientific view of the discipline, the present paper seeks to refocus attention on pragmatic issues facing the discipline. The pursuit of traditional physical science models in social psychology has not worked well, but social psychology has been much more successful in demonstration studies that result in sensitization to variables and relationships. Social psychology has taken a narrow view of science, and neglected significant opportunities that bring it closer to history. The conception of social psychology as history is developed as liberating, not prescriptive, for research in social psychology.
The non-hierarchical development of complexity in the semitropics: water and cooperation

Seasonality and unpredictable rainfall patterns in the tropics and semitropics make living in such regions challenging. Further, dispersed agricultural soils and critical resources result in low-density urbanism where people are blanketed across the landscape. As we show through a discussion of Amazonia, Bali, Angkor, Maya Lowlands, and West Africa, however, people adapt in a sustainable manner through constructing water management systems and developing specialized occupations. Specialized economies develop that take advantage of the varied resource niches that rely more on productive labor rather than technology per se. Cooperation and heterarchical networks are key; the former to build and maintain water systems, and the latter to provide the means to exchange information, goods, and knowledge from among the varied resources areas. Central nodes or urban centers also emerge to bring people together at set times for markets, ceremonies, and other activities that serve to socially integrate the dispersed and diverse groups. Over-exploitation is kept in check through myths that consecrate aspects of the landscape as sacred, especially those revolving around water.
The expression of tomato prosystemin in Escherichia coli: A structural challenge.

Abstract Prosystemin is the 200-amino-acid prohormone of the 18-amino-acid polypeptide called systemin, a systemic mobile signal that activates the synthesis of defense genes in solanaceous plants in response to herbivore attacks. The unusual primary structural features of the tomato prosystemin cDNA and protein provided an extraordinary challenge in devising an expression system to obtain the full-length protein. Prosystemin expression inhibited the growth of a eukaryotic and several prokaryotic hosts used. Prosystemin was initially synthesized as a truncated protein of 185 amino acids in length using a T7 RNA polymerase expression system in E. coli strain BL21[DE3]. The truncation was found to be due to two factors: (1) the intramolecular associations of the 5′ coding region of the prosystemin sequence with the expression vector's ribosome binding site and (2) the presence of a translation start site just prior to the amino acid methionine at position 15. Mutations that permitted the synthesis of the full-length prosystemin protein were introduced into the amino-terminal 5′ coding region of the prosystemin cDNA. A 199-amino-acid recombinant prosystemin lacking the N-terminal methionine was purified from lysates and confirmed by N-terminal amino acid sequence and immunoblot analysis.
Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights - ethically evaluated

This article considers the ethical difficulties presented by the United Nations “Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights”. Initially, the Biblical principles regarding entering into covenant are elucidated. Next, the United Nations’ role in initiating global covenants is investigated in terms of what this body premises its mandate on. To follow is this particular covenant, presented as a case study. The weakness in the United Nations’ approach to treaties and covenants is that the bedrock on which such covenants is being established is notably and necessarily absent. This means that terminology, phrases and application ipso facto are determined on the basis of human presuppositions, rather than on the metaphysically implanted principles of God. Herein lies the basic flaw to what appears on the surface to be a noble approach. In a global setting, with many different worldviews elbowing for room, harmonised application of generically applauded concepts is difficult. The moment a generic concept such as “freedom” needs to be handled, it becomes value-laden. The question is then by whose values this concept is going to be handled. Usually, when consensus cannot be reached, majority will rule. This means that the very sovereignty of member states, supposedly safeguarded in the covenant, is being eroded. For Christians, majority rule is not an acceptable modus operandi. The Christian would support the principled approach to ethical issues. However, where the ethical basis is not articulated, the plethora of opinions (collective or individual) is left to act by. This creates a difficult political environment, for which a solution is hard to find. Yet, the Christian must continue to strive to honour his Lord by striving to be “light and salt” in this political scene.
Some remarks on the temperature dependence of α in point contact transistors

A number of suggestions have been made concerning the current gain of point contact transistors. The P-N hook theory and the trap theory have been considered in most detail. It has been our purpose in the work described here to differentiate between the effects of these two mechanisms and show their relation to the current gain of typical point contact transistors.
DNA replication at high resolution

Several decades of research have delineated the roles of many proteins central to DNA replication. Here we present a structural perspective of this work spanning the past 15 years and highlight several recent advances in the field.
A contact-dependent animal-to-vegetal signal biases neural lineages during Xenopus cleavage stages.

Abstract The central nervous system (CNS) of Xenopus is derived from three of four tiers of blastomeres of the 32-cell embryo, and each blastomere in these tiers produces a characteristic number of primary spinal neurons. The C-tier blastomeres constitute the boundary between those that contribute to the CNS (A-, B-, and C-tiers) and those that do not (D-tier). To test whether the neural lineages descended from the C-tier are established by intrinsic information or by cell–cell interactions, single B-tier blastomeres were deleted and the lineage of their C-tier neighbors mapped. The contributions of C-tier blastomeres to subdivisions of the CNS and to specific spinal neurons were significantly reduced. Contributions of these blastomeres to other tissues were mostly normal, indicating that those C-tier progeny that no longer contribute to CNS are distributed in small numbers throughout the rest of the clone. To test whether the changes in neural lineages after B-tier deletions were the result of the C-tier blastomere changing position, contacting new neighbors, or losing contact with inductive B-tier neighbors, intact embryos were transiently dissociated within their vitelline membranes at different time points prior to the midblastula transition. This treatment disrupted cell–cell contact, but not gap junction-mediated dye coupling or the positions of neighboring cells. C-tier CNS lineages were reduced as after deletion of the B-tier neighbor, suggesting that the neural fate of C-tier cells depends upon specific B-tier interactions. To determine whether these interactions occurred specifically between B-tier and C-tier neighbors, barriers were inserted transiently between individual B/C pairs; similar reductions in C-tier CNS lineages were observed. These data demonstrate that an animal-to-vegetal, contact-dependent signal passes from B-tier to C-tier blastomeres and is required for the normal C-tier contribution to the CNS. This cell–cell interaction occurs many hours before the onset of zygotic transcription or neural induction and may bias the field of cells that can respond to neural induction.
Some physical interpretations of statistically derived coefficients for split-window corrections to satellite-derived sea surface temperatures

Regression coefficients derived by Llewellyn-Jones for the split- and triple-window methods of correcting satellite-derived sea surface temperatures for atmospheric attenuation are examined for consistency with values expected from physical rather than statistical constraints. In this instance, the agreement between physical and statistical approaches is remarkably good. the insight that results from physical considerations illustrates the similarity of coefficients that, from a statistical point of view, appear to be quite different.
Efficacy of hemodialysis and charcoal hemoperfusion in carbamazepine overdose.

To the Editor:We wish to report a case of carbamazepine poisoning treated with charcoal hemoperfusion and high-efficiency hemodialysisA 22-year-old woman was brought by her family to a local commun...
Rosuvastatin: A new HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia

Because of their excellent tolerability and their positive impact on lipid parameters, 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors (statins) have become the drugs of first choice for many patients with dyslipidemia. Rosuvastatin is an investigational statin in the U.S. with a number of favorable characteristics, which include low lipophilicity, high hepatocyte selectivity, minimal metabolism, and a low propensity for cytochrome P450 drug interactions. Rosuvastatin has been studied at doses ranging from 1 to 80 mg. In comparative clinical trials, rosuvastatin given at 5 to 10 mg/day reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol to a significantly greater extent than atorvastatin 10 mg/day, pravastatin 20 mg/day, and simvastatin 20 mg/day. In addition, rosuvastatin exhibited beneficial effects on other lipid parameters such as high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides. Rosuvastatin's safety profile was demonstrated to be similar to those of other statins. Given its favorable pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics, rosuvastatin is likely to become a valuable addition to the statin drug class. The author reviews the pharmacologic and pharmacokinetic properties of this new statin.
Identifying HPC codes via performance logs and machine learning

We aim here to leverage supervised learning to enable large-scale analysis of performance logs, in order to accurately classify code runs and understand the importance of different performance metrics. Previous work has demonstrated structured communication patterns in high performance codes. By categorizing these patterns, we can identify what code was executed. The ability to identify a code by its performance profile is useful for specializing HPC security systems and for identifying common optimizations for similar codes. Supervised machine learning is used on an extensive set of data of real user runs from a high performance computing center. We employ and modify a rule ensemble method to predict what code was run given a performance log. This naive method achieves greater than 93% accuracy. When modified to allow an "other class," accuracy increases to greater than 97%. This modification allows an anomalous run to be flagged as not belonging to a previously seen, or acceptable, code and provides additional latitude in monitoring what is run on supercomputing facilities. We conclude by interpreting the resulting rule model, as it tells us which components of a code are most distinctive and useful for identification.
Sequence characterization of microsatellites in diploid and polyploid Ipomoea

The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the inheritance and nucleotide sequence profiles of microsatellite genetic markers in hexaploid sweetpotato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.] and its putative tetraploid and diploid ancestors, and to test possible microsatellite mutation mechanisms in polyploids by direct sequencing of alleles. Sixty three microsatellite loci were isolated from genomic libraries of I. batatas and sequenced. PCR primers were designed and used to characterize microsatellite loci in two hexaploid I. batatas populations, a tetraploid Ipomoea trifida population, and a diploid I. trifida population. Nine out of the sixty three primer pairs tested yielded a clearly discernible, heritable banding pattern; five showed Mendelian segregation. All other primer pairs produced either smeared banding patterns, which could not be scored, or no bands at all in I. batatas. All of the primers which produced discernible banding patterns from I. batatas also amplified products of similar size in tetraploid and diploid I. trifida accessions. The sequence analysis of several alleles in the three species showed differences due to mutations in the repeat regions consistent with small differences in the repeat number. However, in some cases insertions/deletions and base substitutions in the microsatellite flanking regions were responsible for polymorphisms in both polyploid and diploid species. These results provide strong empirical evidence that complex genetic mechanisms are responsible for SSR allelic variation in Ipomoea. Four I. batatas microsatellite loci showed polysomic segregation fitting tetraploid segregation ratios. To our knowledge this is the first report of segregation ratios for microsatellites markers in polyploids.
Hemodynamic effects of repeated doses of epinephrine after prolonged cardiac arrest and CPR: preliminary observations in an animal model.

Abstract Study purpose : To assess the hemodynamic response to repeated doses of epinephrine (EPI) in an animal model of prolonged cardiac arrest and CPR. Design : Basic laboratory investigation. Fourteen canines were subjected to electrically induced ventricular fibrillation (VF) followed by 7.5 min of VF without CPR. Interventions : After 7.5 min of VF, manual closed-chest CPR (80–100 compressions per minute, compression to ventilation ratio 8:1) was initiated. Countershocks were performed, recommended advanced cardiac life support drugs were given, and CPR was continuted until restoration of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) or for 20 min. Epinephrine, 1 mg (approximately 0.04 mg kg −1 ), was administered when indicated and at recommended time intervals. Methods : Aortic and right atrial pressures were measured with micromanometer catheters before and after EPI, and CPR coronary perfusion pressure (CPP) was calculated (CPR diastolic aortic to right atrial pressure difference). Survival was defined as maintenance of ROSC for 30 min. Results : Countershocks after 7.5 min resulted in asystole in ten animals and persistant VF in four. In those animals successfully resuscitated ( n =3), the change in CPP was 21±11 mm Hg after the first dose of EPI. Only one animal required a second dose of EPI. The majority of the study group ( n =11) could not be resuscitated. The increase in CPP after EPI averaged only 3±2 mm Hg and subsequent doses produced no significant effect on CPP (2±4 mm Hg). Conclusions : The hemodynamic response to the first dose of EPI determines if the critical CPP needed for ROSC and survival will occur. Repeat doses of EPI do not appear to improve CPP to a degree to affect clinically meaningful measures of outcome, i.e., successful countershock and survival.
Some humor in an A.I. qualifying exam

George L. Sicherman has recently taken the Special Area Qualifying Exam in A.I. in my department. In addition to six bona fide q, he was asked to answer two light-hearted ones. I think his responses are funny enough to be published in this forum. It was a take-home exam which fact enable him to "use" a computer in the second area.
Approach to equilibrium after dilution of a monomer/dimer mixture. Measurement of the rate constant for dissociation of trityl dimer by stopped‐flow methods

A general expression is derived for the approach to a new equilibrium when a monomer/dimer solution is diluted by a factor of n. The error introduced by a simple exponential treatment is analyzed. The response of a trityl monomer/dimer equilibrium to dilution by a factor of two in a stopped-flow apparatus has been used to measure the rate constant k11. The results fall on the same Eyring plot with those obtained at lower temperatures, by another method, in the early 1930's by Ziegler and co-workers. © John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Superselection rules in quantum theory: Part I. A new proposal for state restriction violation

It is argued that preparation of a quantum state characterized by density operator ρ not commuting with a superselection operatorQ does not by itself constitute an instance of superselection rule violation. It would, however, be an instance of state restriction violation. It is held that superselection rule violation is only possible with simultaneous observable and state restriction violations. It is shown that it is a priori conceivable to subdivide an ensemble whose ρ satisfies[ρ, Q] = 0 into subensembles whose density operators violate the state restrictions. The dynamics of the subdivision process is not considered.
Vibrational excitation and dissociative recombination of the LiH+ ion

LiH+ is one of the remaining enigmas among small, simple molecules, in its unexpectedly high dissociative recombination (DR) rate. The dissociative recombination process, in which a colliding electron is captured, results in dissociation and destruction of the molecule. The conventional mechanism characteristic of most species with a high DR rate, which normally involves direct capture into a dissociative resonance potential curve, is absent here. For this reason, this is a prototype for indirect DR that must instead proceed through Rydberg capture pathways. We apply ab initio multichannel quantum defect theory (MQDT), in combination with a rovibrational frame transformation based on Siegert pseudostates, to treat indirect DR for this fundamental diatomic ion. The starting point is a set of ab initio quantum defects determined using the R-matrix approach, functions of the internuclear distance. The calculated DR rate coefficient agrees with recent experimental data [S. Krohn, et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 86, ...
Vortex breakdown over a delta wing with oscillating leading edge flaps

The effects of oscillating leading-edge flaps on leading-edge vortices and vortex breakdown were investigated for a delta wing with upward-deflected flaps. The variation of breakdown location revealed hysteresis loops. The time-averaged breakdown location over one cycle may move upstream or downstream compared to the quasi-steady case, depending on the amplitude of flap oscillations and angle of attack. Measurements of the phase-averaged velocity upstream of breakdown did not reveal any correlation to the response of breakdown location. The effect of oscillating flaps is largest when the breakdown location is near the trailing-edge region in the static case.
Multiple D2 dopamine receptors produced by alternative RNA splicing.

DOPAMINE receptors belong to a large class of neurotransmitter and hormone receptors that are linked to their signal transduction pathways through guanine nucleotide binding regulatory proteins (G proteins). Pharmacological, biochemical and physiological criteria have been used to define two subcategories of dopamine receptors1 referred to as D1 and D2. D1 receptors activate adenylyl cyclase2 and are coupled with the Gs regulatory protein3. By contrast, activation of D2 receptors results in various responses including inhibition of adenylyl cyclase4, inhibition of phosphatidylinositol turnover5, increase in K+ channel activity6 and inhibition of Ca2+ mobilization7. The G protein(s) linking the D2 receptors to these responses have not been identified, although D2 receptors have been shown to both copurify8,9 and functionally reconstitute10,11 with both Gi and Go related proteins3. The diversity of responses elicited by D2-receptor activation could reflect the existence of multiple D2 receptor subtypes, the identification of which is facilitated by the recent cloning of a complementary DNA encoding a rat D2 receptor12. This receptor exhibits considerable amino-acid homology with other members of the G protein-coupled receptor superfamily12,13. Here we report the identification and cloning of a cDNA encoding an RNA splice variant of the rat D2 receptor cDNA12. This cDNA codes for a receptor isoform which is predominantly expressed in the brain, and contains an additional 29 amino acids in the third cytoplasmic loop, a region believed to be involved in G protein coupling.
Comparison of EO1 Landsat-7 ETM+ and EO-1 ALI images over Rochester, New York

We present a comparison of images from the ETM+ sensor on Landsat-7 and the ALI instrument on EO-1 over a test site in Rochester, NY. The site contains a variety of features, ranging from water of varying depths, deciduous/coniferous forest, grass fields, to urban areas. The nearly coincident cloud-free images were collected just one minute apart on 25 August, 2001. We atmospherically corrected each image with the 6S atmosphere model, using aerosol optical thickness and water vapor column density measured by a Cimel sun photometer within the Aerosol Robotic Network (Aeronet), along with ozone density derived from NCEP data. We present three-color composites from each instrument that show excellent qualitative agreement. We present ETM+ and ALI reflectance spectra for water, grass, and urban targets. We make a more detailed comparison for our forest site, where we use measured geometric and optical properties as input to the SAIL canopy reflectance model, which we compare to the ETM+, ALI, and EO-1 Hyperion reflectance spectra.
Oscillating cascade unsteady aerodynamics including separated flow effects

A mathematical model is developed to predict the effect of flow separation on the unsteady aerodynamic lift and moment acting on a two-dimensional flat plate cascade which is harmonically oscillating in a subsonic flow field. The unsteady flow is considered to be a small perturbation to the uniform steady flow, with the steady flow assumed to separate at a specified fixed position on the airfoil suction surface. This formulation does not require the difference in the upwash velocity across the airfoil in the separated flow region to be determined before calculating the unsteady pressure difference across the chordline of the airfoils, thereby eliminating the assumption that the upwash difference is zero at the trailing edge when the steady flow is separated. Results obtained demonstrate that although flow separation decreases bending mode stability, it does not result in bending mode flutter. However, flow separation can result in torsion mode flutter, with this instability being a function of the location of both the separation point and the elastic axis.
Band structure and optical properties of aluminum

Abstract Using Ashcroft's potential, a calculation of the interband contribution to ϵ2(ω) for aluminium is made. The large peak near 1.6 eV can be understood by examination of an appropriate reflection plane in the Brillouin zone. In addition, another peak should exist near 0.5 eV. The optical effective mass is computed to be 1.45 m0.
Enhanced model of a plowing asperity

In the present work we develop an analysis of plowing by an asperity that is described by more parameters than in previous work. This gives additional flexibility in representing a realistic surface profile. The upper bound method for rigid/perfectly plastic material and the concept of rigid blocks with velocity discontinuities has been consistently used to find the steady state solution. Comparisons with previous approximate approaches have been made. Existence and uniqueness of the solution have been discussed. A few numerical results demonstrating the concept are presented. Numerical efficiency makes it a viable alternative to direct application of a finite element method.
Anomalous left coronary artery arising from the pulmonary artery in hypoplastic left hearts: Case series and review of literature

CLINICAL SUMMARY A retrospective review of 552 patients undergoing stage I palliation between 1995 and 2010 was performed. ALCAPAwas identified in 6 patients. Six cases of ALCAPA in hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) were found in this retrospective review (Table 1). In 5 patients, the diagnosis was made intraoperatively. In the first 4 patients, ALCAPAwas identified late in the procedure (ie, after ductal ligation), and all 4 patients died of myocardial failure in the postoperative period. In the fifth patient, ALCAPA was identified during dissection of the right pulmonary artery (RPA). Care was taken to preserve coronary perfusion by snaring the branch pulmonary arteries and delaying ductal ligation. Cardioplegia was delivered to both coronary arteries via the ascending aorta and the controlled main pulmonary artery (MPA). This patient survived. In the sixth patient, diagnosis was made preoperatively by echocardiography and catheterization (Figures 1 and 2). Perfusion and cardioplegia were handled as described above, and this patient died of myocardial failure.
Elliptical Error Statistics for Radiolocation Analysis

A review is made of current techniques used in the statistical analysis of radio direction finding data which predict a region of probable transmitter location based upon a collection of intersecting lines of bearing measurements. This region has been conventionally defined by the elliptical error probability (EEP). Two characterizations for EEP are considered, and a technique is proposed for robust estimation of the elliptical region of probable location.
Calculated Phonon Spectra of Plutonium at High Temperatures

We constructed computer-based simulations of the lattice dynamical properties of plutonium using an electronic structure method, which incorporates correlation effects among the f-shell electrons and calculates phonon spectra at arbitrary wavelengths. Our predicted spectrum for the face-centered cubic δ phase agrees well with experiments in the elastic limit and explains unusually large shear anisotropy of this material. The spectrum of the body-centered cubic phase shows an instability at zero temperature over a broad region of the wave vectors, indicating that this phase is highly anharmonic and can be stabilized at high temperatures by its phonon entropy.
Equilibrium faceting shapes for quasicrystals

The equilibrium shapes (ES's) of icosahedral quasicrystals are analyzed for a wide class of lattice models which incorporate finite-range two-body interactions. Completely faceted shapes have been predicted for such models at temperature T=0. We prove that a number of simple shapes cannot be ES's for any model in this class for which the atomic interactions are constrained to be pure-attractive. This extends the result of Ho et al. [Phys. Rev. Lett. 59, 1116 (1987)], who showed that the pentagonal dodecahedron, a shape observed in grains of icosahedral Al-Cu-Fe and Ga-Mg-Zn, is a forbidden shape for pure-attractive models. We then introduce a lattice model for quasicrystals which incorporates mixed attractive and repulsive interactions and show that the possible ES's include the dodecahedron and other previously forbidden shapes.
The decline in yolk progesterone concentrations during incubation is dependent on embryonic development in the European starling.

Abstract Oviparous amniotes, particularly birds, have become model systems in which to study how mothers may utilize steroids to adaptively adjust offspring development. Although there is now ample evidence that maternally derived steroids in the egg at oviposition can influence offspring phenotype, very little is known about how these steroids elicit such effects. Of the major avian steroid hormones found in yolk, progesterone is by far the most abundant at oviposition, but has received little research attention to date. In this study, we examine the metabolism of [ 3 H]-progesterone injected into freshly laid European starling eggs throughout the first 5 days of development by characterization of radioactivity within the egg homogenate. We also introduce a technique that utilizes a focal, freeze/thaw cycle to prevent embryonic development and allows us to assess the role of the embryo in metabolizing progesterone during early incubation. Two major findings result. First is that [ 3 H]-progesterone is metabolized in eggs possessing a developing embryo, but not in eggs with disrupted embryonic development. Second is that the change in the distribution of radioactivity within eggs possessing an embryo is the result of metabolism of [ 3 H]-progesterone to a more polar form that is subsequently conjugated. Together, these data suggest live embryos are necessary for metabolism of progesterone during early incubation, underscoring the potentially important contribution of embryos to functional modulation or mediation of maternal yolk steroid effects.
The methoxychlor metabolite, 2,2-bis-(p-hydroxyphenyl)-1,1,1-trichloroethane, inhibits steroidogenesis in rat ovarian granulosa cells in vitro.

Abstract The exquisitely balanced hormonal mechanisms that control female fertility can be affected by several internal and external factors including pathogens, genetic maladies, and environmental agents. In the latter group are natural and synthetic agents known as endocrine disruptors. One such compound, 2,2-bis-( p -hydroxyphenyl)-1,1,1-trichloroethane (HPTE), is the predominant metabolite of the pesticide methoxychlor. The effects of HPTE on ovarian steroidogenesis have not been previously reported and were investigated in the present study. Granulosa cells harvested from immature rats were treated with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) or N 6 ,2′- O -dibutyryladenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate (db-cAMP) in the presence or absence of HPTE. After 48 h, progesterone (P 4 ) and estradiol-17β (E 2 ) concentrations were measured in the culture media. Steady-state levels of the mRNAs encoding steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), P450 side-chain cleavage (P450scc), 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (3β-HSD), and P450 aromatase (P450arom) were examined using real-time PCR. Both FSH- and db-cAMP-stimulated P 4 accumulation were impaired by HPTE. In contrast, FSH-, but not db-cAMP-stimulated, E 2 content was suppressed by HPTE. The FSH-dependent increase in the abundance of P450scc, 3β-HSD, and P450arom mRNAs was blocked by HPTE; however, StAR expression was not altered. Although db-cAMP-dependent P450arom was moderately reduced by HPTE, the levels of db-cAMP-dependent StAR, P450scc, and 3β-HSD mRNAs were increased in the presence of HPTE. These data collectively show that HPTE can disrupt P 4 and E 2 production in granulosa cells, with implications for sites of action both preceding and following the generation of cAMP. The steroid-modulatory effects of HPTE in granulosa cells appear to involve the general suppression of the FSH-dependent expression of mRNAs encoding steroid pathway proteins, whereas the disparate effects of HPTE on cAMP-dependent mRNA content in this regard suggest a broader and more complex mechanism of action.
A Method to Assess Rotary Nickel-Titanium Files

A number of studies have assessed the physical properties and durability of rotary nickel-titanium files. This study proposes a method that will permit this to be done in a controlled manner. Files of 0.04 taper; 25 mm in length; and in ISO sizes 25, 30, and 35 were each used four times in plastic blocks. The canal in the block had a working length of 17 mm; 30° curvature; 15 mm radius of curvature; size 20 at the apex; and the curve began at 8 mm from the orifice of the canal. The irrigant used was Glyde ® . An electric handpiece was configured to rotate at 200 rpm and secured to the testing device, which also held the plastic block. The testing device controlled the depth of penetration at 17 mm; the load was at 8 N and the rate of penetration was at 120 mm/min. Controls were not subjected to use. Torsional moment (N-cm) and angular deflection (degrees) at failure were determined on a Torsiometer/Memocouple. Data ( n = 5) were analyzed by analysis of variance. Tukey-Kramer intervals at the 0.05 significance level were determined. Torsional moment significantly increased with an increase in size. Torsional moment also significantly increased for used instruments, compared with controls. Angular deflection had a range of 480 degrees to 810 degrees for the instruments tested.
On the role of GABA as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in inferior colliculus neurons: iontophoretic studies

Significant neurochemical, immunocytochemical, and ligand binding studies support a role for GABA as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the inferior colliculus (IC). The present study attempted to satisfy some of the remaining criteria for establishing transmitter identity by utilizing iontophoretic application onto IC neurons of agents affecting the action of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). The agents examined include GABA, a GABAB agonist (baclofen), a GABAA antagonist (bicuculline), a GABA uptake inhibitor (nipecotic acid), and a benzodiazepine (flurazepam), thought to exert its actions on the GABA receptor complex. Application of GABA results in inhibition of the spontaneous firing and acoustically evoked responses of inferior colliculus neurons. The inhibitory effect of GABA is enhanced by the simultaneous application of nipecotic acid or flurazepam. These agents as well as baclofen produce firing reductions when applied alone in higher doses. The effect of GABA can be blocked by application of bicuculline, and acoustically evoked (binaural) inhibition can also be selectively blocked by low doses of this GABAA antagonist. These data along with previous studies utilizing different techniques fulfill many of the criteria for establishment of GABA as an important inhibitory transmitter in the inferior colliculus.
Modified agile practices for outsourced software projects

Frustration with the bureaucratic nature of the disciplined approach has led to the call for agile development. The new approach is defined by the Agile Manifesto (http://agilemanifesto.org/), which values individuals and interactions over processes and tools, working software over comprehensive documentation, customer collaboration over contract negotiation, and agility in responding to change over following a prescribed plan. Agile development does not focus on process improvement; instead it focuses on customer satisfaction and employee empowerment. This is evident from reading the stated values and principles of the Agile Manifesto, which include fairly extreme positions such as "welcome changing requirements, even late in development" and "the best architectures, requirements, and designs emerge from self-organizing teams."An interesting issue arising from the call for agile development is its role in distributed development, which usually translates to offshore development. A recent study indicates that agile practices can reduce temporal, geographical, and socio-cultural distances in distributed development projects. The study researched agile development between teams located in the U.S. and Ireland, and while it reported that overall communication was improved, it also noted problems related to geographical, temporal, and even language distances. Although there are other reported successes of distributed agile development, the projects are generally small, the team members are likely familiar with each other, and the participants are largely experts or high caliber developers.This raises a research, as well as a practical, question: can we extend the use of agile practices from small projects to medium and large projects that involve a significant outsourcing component? To address this question, we must drop constraints such as small size projects, and expert developers belonging to the same company, and examine problems arising from geographical, temporal, and cultural distances. Accordingly, agile practices may need to be modified.In this article, the key issues of software projects with an outsourced component are first identified. These issues are then used as a background to evaluate how standard agile practices stand up when applied to larger projects. This evaluation is followed by recommendations for modified agile practices for outsourced software projects.
Social Skills Assessment Technology for LD Students

Advances in a social skills assessment technology for students with learning disabilities are discussed. The modified definition of learning disabilities proposed by the Interagency Committee on Le...
Break-even analysis of Medicaid vs fee for service in orthodontic practice: North Carolina as a case study.

Introduction Access to orthodontic services for children enrolled in Medicaid is limited nationwide. Orthodontists cite low fee reimbursement as a significant barrier to Medicaid participation. The purpose of this study was to examine, under a specific set of practice assumptions, the simulated effect on profitability of treating patients covered by Medicaid in orthodontic practices in North Carolina by using a break-even analysis for the 2005 fiscal year. Methods Questionnaires were mailed to 154 orthodontists in active practice in North Carolina. The response rate was 58%. Seventy respondents met the eligibility criteria. Respondents were categorized into 4 groups based on the number of 2005 Medicaid case starts (I, 0; II, 1-5; III, 6-12; IV, 13 or more). By using the aggregated responses for treatment fees, treatment times, and overhead percentages for each group, average per-patient costs were calculated for each group and used in a break-even analysis. Results Group I accounted for 60% of respondents; group II, 20%; group III, 9%; and group IV, 11%. Assuming that the break-even point had not been reached, the group I practice would have an average estimated loss of $164 per patient whereas groups II, III, and IV would realize average profits from $98 to $256. The break-even point increased slightly in groups I, II, and III after the total number of patients in the patient pool was increased by 5%, assuming that additional patients were enrolled in Medicaid: group I, 203 to 210; group II, 220 to 226; group III, 158 to 160. The break-even point for group IV was 234 patients. Assuming that the break-even point had been reached, all groups were estimated to realize average per-patient profits of $1483 to $1897. Conclusions Break-even analysis is a basic economic concept applicable to orthodontic practices. Under the specific conditions of this study, the inclusion of 5% of patients enrolled in Medicaid in the active patient pool had minimal effect on the financial break-even point and, assuming that the break-even point had been reached, was unlikely to have a negative financial impact on the practice.
Fermi liquid behavior and the metal-insulator transition of almost localized electrons: A brief theoretical review and an application to V2O3 system

Abstract We review the electronic properties of almost localized electrons and the theoretical interpretation of the observed discontinuous metal-insulator (Mott) transitions in V 2 O 3 system, induced by electron-electron interaction. Emphasis is placed on the correlated nature of these electronic states, which are described within a parametrized, Hubbard-type model. In particular, we concentrate on the equilibrium Fermi liquid properties and the Mott transition at nonzero temperature. The effective mass of almost localized quasiparticles is spin dependent and varies strongly in an applied magnetic field. The correlated metal-Mott insulator boundary marks the limiting line of the applicability of the Fermi liquid concept to interacting electrons in a solid. In other words, the insulator to metal (Mott) transitions in V 2 O 3 system are regarded as examples of localization-delocalization transformations involving 3 d electrons. Explicit calculations of the phase diagram are performed with the help of Gutzwiller method and its generalization to nonzero temperatures.
A behavioral decision theory paradox

This paper deals with a paradox. Tversky and Kahneman have presented the distinction between transparent and nontransparent dominance. Thaler has expanded their concept to present a paradox of choice where one prefers an alternative that is subsequently proved to be inferior (but the decision maker may still prefer the inferior alternative). Regret theory is used to explain both the paradox and one type of preference reversal.
Color flow mapping to document normal pulmonary venous return in neonates with persistent pulmonary hypertension being considered for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

This study investigated the value of color flow mapping in documenting normal pulmonary venous return in neonates with persistent pulmonary hypertension who were candidates for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Forty newborn infants with persistent pulmonary hypertension underwent conventional (two-dimensional and Doppler) echocardiography and color flow mapping. Of 25 candidates for ECMO therapy, 18 subsequently recelved it. Conventional echocardiography demonstrated normal pulmonary venous return in only 21 of the 40 patients. In all 40, however, color flow mapping demonstrated normal right and left pulmonary venous drainage entering the left atrium. In three other patients with total anomalous pulmonary venous return, conventional echocardiography demonstrated the anomalous pulmonary venous pathways, and color flow mapping did not show jets emanating from the left atrial wall; the left atrium was shown to fill exclusively from right to left shunting through the foramen ovale. We conclude that color flow mapping is superior to conventional echocardiography for verifying normal pulmonary venous return in neonates with persistent pulmonary hypertension.
Adderall® produces increased striatal dopamine release and a prolonged time course compared to amphetamine isomers

Rationale Adderall® is currently used for the treatment of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and is composed of a novel mixture of approximately 24% l-amphetamine and 76% d-amphetamine salts. There are, however, no investigations of the pharmacological effects of this combination in vivo.
Electron-Transfer Reactions in Micelles: Dynamics of Psoralen and Coumarin Radical Cations

Radical cations of several psoralens and coumarins have been generated by photoionization in aqueous micellar solution for a comparison of their dynamic behavior with results observed previously in aqueous solution. The photoionization efficiencies are significantly higher in anionic sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) micelles than in aqueous solution as a result of favorable electrostatic effects that lead to rapid ejection of the electron into the aqueous phase. By contrast, much lower quantum yields are measured in neutral and cationic micelles. Experiments with anionic quenchers that are soluble only in the aqueous phase demonstrate that exit of the radical cations from anionic SDS micelles is too slow to measure (<105 s-1) under our conditions. Exit rate constants from neutral Triton X-100 micelles are approximately an order of magnitude faster. Comparison of equilibrium constants for both triplet and radical cations of 4,5‘,8-trimethylpsoralen demonstrates that electrostatic effects lead to an order of ma...
Evolving water management institutions in the Red River Basin.

Institutions are the rules and norms that guide societal behavior. As societies evolve—with more diverse economies, increased populations and incomes, and more water scarcity—new and more complex water management institutions need to be developed. This evolution of water management institutions may also be observed across different constituencies, with different societal needs, in the same time period. The Red River of the North basin is particularly well suited for research on water management issues. A key feature of water management in the Red River Basin is the presence of three completely different sets of water law. Minnesota’s water law is based upon riparian rights. North Dakota’s water law is based upon prior appropriation. Manitoba has a system of water allocation that features provincial control. Because the basin is fairly homogeneous in terms of land use and geographic features, its institutional diversity makes this an excellent case study for the analysis of local water institutions. This article reviews the local water management institutions in the Red River Basin and assesses the ongoing institutional evolution of local water management.
The reflexion of a plane shockwave from a heat-conducting wall

The situation following reflexion of a discontinuous plane shockwave from a coplanar, heat-conducting wall is analysed by the method of matched asymptotic expansions. Temperature jump effects are included. Two terms of the outer expansion are calculated ((i) the 'ideal' inviscid, nonheat conducting solution; (ii) the displacement effect) as well as two terms of the inner series ((i) constant pressure thermal boundary layer; (ii) first correction term resulting from pressure and temperature changes due to the displacement effect). The results agree reasonably well with experimental observations and it appears that accommodation effects may account for some observations of reflected-shock trajectories.