cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The antioxidant resveratrol protects against chondrocyte apoptosis via effects on mitochondrial polarization and ATP production.

Objective To determine the effects of the antioxidant resveratrol on the functions of human chondrocytes in osteoarthritis (OA). Methods Chondrocytes and cartilage explants were isolated from OA patients undergoing knee replacement surgery. Effects of resveratrol in the presence or absence of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) stimulation were assessed by measurement of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and leukotriene B4 (LTB4) synthesis, cyclooxygenase (COX) activity, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression, and proteoglycan production. To explore the mechanisms of action of resveratrol, its effects on mitochondrial function and apoptosis were examined by assessing mitochondrial membrane potential, ATP levels, cytochrome c release, and annexin V staining. Results Resveratrol inhibited both spontaneous and IL-1β–induced PGE2 production by >20% (P 50% (P < 0.05). The production of PGE2 was inhibited via a 70–90% suppression of COX-2 expression and enzyme activity (P < 0.05). Resveratrol also promoted anabolic effects in OA explant cultures, by elevating proteoglycan synthesis and decreasing production of MMPs 1, 3, and 13. Pretreatment of OA chondrocytes with resveratrol blocked mitochondrial membrane depolarization, loss of mitochondrial biomass, and IL-1β–induced ATP depletion. Similarly, IL-1β–mediated induction of the apoptotic markers cytochrome c and annexin V was also inhibited by resveratrol. Exogenous addition of PGE2 abolished the protective effects of resveratrol on mitochondrial membrane integrity, ATP levels, expression of apoptotic markers, and DNA fragmentation. Conclusion Resveratrol protects against IL-1β–induced catabolic effects and prevents chondrocyte apoptosis via its inhibition of mitochondrial membrane depolarization and ATP depletion. These beneficial effects of resveratrol are due, in part, to its capacity to inhibit COX-2–derived PGE2 synthesis. Resveratrol may therefore protect against oxidant injury and apoptosis, which are main features of progressive OA.
Accountability and negotiator behavior

Abstract The need to resolve conflict between groups exists in numerous forms within and among organizations. However, the relationship between a representative and his constituency are seen to affect the ease with which this is done. The present study focuses on spokesmen or representatives as they attempt to reach an agreement that would be mutually acceptable to the parties involved. In a laboratory experiment, mode of representative selection (election by the team versus random selection) and the nature of accountability (no, continuous, or end of negotiation session review by constituents) were manipulated to assess their impact on bargaining difficulty. Consistent with previous research these two variables were found to interact, yet the specific results were unanticipated. Elected representatives did not appear to be systematically influenced by the various levels of accountability. In contrast, randomly selected spokesmen facing no review showed the fewest deadlocks, tended to reach agreement at a faster rate, and reported least pressure, frustration, and difficulty. Selected spokesmen facing either continuous or end accountability tended to react similarly and experienced the most difficulty in the study. The notion of a representative's mandate and the emerging literature on social facilitation were used to interpret the results. Ancillary data provided by subjects on their group (team) member interactions were found to be related to felt commitment to a team's position. This further emphasized the importance of intragroup processes to intergroup conflict resolution.
Tanaka's formula for multiple intersections of planar Brownian motion☆

Abstract We establish a Tanaka-like formula relating the local times of r and r + 1 fold self-intersections of a Brownian path in the plane.
ITEM-ITEM CURVES AND CONSISTENT MENTAL TEST PARAMETER ESTIMATES1

It is shown that empirical mental test P - P plots are approximately-equal to theoretical item-item curves, at least for long tests administered to many people. This result is important because it leads to (1) a distribution free method for estimating points on item-item curves, (2) a general method for defining estimates of item parameters and (3) the only parameter estimation method known to be consistent for some of the most important aptitude test models.
Functionalization of single-walled carbon nanotubes using isotropic plasma treatment: Resonant Raman spectroscopy study

Functionalization of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) by isotropic plasma treatment was studied using resonant Raman spectroscopy. It was shown that plasma-induced functionalization results in the uniaxial isotropic constriction of the nanotubes but preserves their overall structural integrity. It was demonstrated that NH3∙H2O and hexamethyldisiloxan plasmas yield various types of conductivity for semiconducting SWNTs.
The fine structure of granulosa cell nexuses in rat ovarian follicles.

An intercellular junction known as the nexus has been identified in developing granulosa tissue of rat ovaries. Nexuses are common in Graafian follicles of mature cycling rats and in similar follicles of immature animals stimulated by exogenous gonadotrophins. The angle at which the plane of section intersects a nexus significantly governs its internal appearance. Within obliquely cut nexuses there is often a cross-striated pattern of uniform lines in specimens prepared by conventional fixation and staining procedures. These lines could be significant because they may represent points of continuity between communicating cells. Two forms of nexuses are observed. The abutment form is found at cell surfaces, is continuous with plasma membranes, and is frequently associated with cell processes. The other form of nexus is ring-shaped and appears free within the cytoplasm. These circular profiles probably represent transverse views through nexus-girdled cell processes as well as nexus-bound spheres which may have pinched off the processes. Since the profiles from the two sources are ordinarily indistinguishable, both are designated “annular nexuses” even though some may be cell inclusions. Lanthanum tracer can percolate into the central region of abutment nexuses but is absent from the large majority of annular nexuses, suggesting that many of them are isolated from the extracellular space. Reconstruction of serial sections reveals that some annuli are parts of cell inclusions. Sphere formation could be a means of removing nexuses from cell surfaces.
Wind speed dependent size-resolved parameterization for the organic enrichment of sea spray

Abstract. For oceans to become a significant source of primary organic aerosol, sea spray must be highly enriched with organics relative to the bulk seawater. We propose that organic enrichment at the air-sea interface, chemical composition of seawater, and the aerosol size are three main parameters controlling the organic fraction of sea spray aerosol (OCss). To test this hypothesis, we developed a new marine primary organic aerosol emission function based on a conceptual relationship between the organic enrichment at the air-sea interface and surface wind speed. The resulting parameterization is explored using aerosol chemical composition and surface wind speed from Atlantic and Pacific coastal stations, and satellite-derived ocean concentrations of chlorophyll-a, dissolved organic carbon, and particulate organic carbon. Of all the parameters examined, a multi-variable logistic regression revealed that the combination of 10 m wind speed and surface chlorophyll-a concentration ([Chl-a]) are the most consistent predictors of OCss. This relationship, combined with the published aerosol size dependence of OCss, resulted in a new parameterization for the organic carbon fraction of sea spray. Global marine primary organic emission is investigated here by applying this newly-developed relationship to existing sea spray emission functions, satellite-derived [Chl-a], and modeled 10 m winds. Analysis of model simulations show that global annual submicron marine organic emission associated with sea spray is estimated to be from 2.1 to 5.3 Tg C yr−1. This study provides additional evidence that marine primary organic aerosols are a globally significant source of organics in the atmosphere.
Thermal ionization model for the sustaining phase of lock-on in GaAs

Thermal ionization of electrons and holes is proposed as an explanation for the sustained phase of lock-on in semi-insulating GaAs. In this mechanism, thermal ionization leads to a current instability which drives the formation of current filaments. The model predicts bistable states: either a highly conductive on-state or weakly conductive off-state. The model predicts that a transition from the off-state to a filamentary-current on-state can be triggered by illumination in agreement with experiments using photoexcitation.
Monolithic columns containing sol–gel bonded octadecylsilica for capillary electrochromatography

A new method for preparing monolithic capillary columns is reported. A fused-silica capillary packed with porous octadecylsilica (ODS) particles using a CO2 slurry was partially filled with a siliceous sol formed by hydrolysis and polycondensation of tetramethoxysilane and ethyltrimethoxysilane. After gelling and aging of the siliceous sol at room temperature, the column was dried with supercritical CO2. The scanning electron micrograph of a cross-section of the capillary column revealed that the ODS particles were bonded to each other and to the column inner wall by the sol–gel, forming a monolith. The performance of the monolithic column was evaluated for capillary electrochromatography using small aromatic compounds and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with Tris buffer in aqueous acetonitrile mobile phase. The electroosmotic flow velocity increased with a decrease in Tris buffer concentration from 10 to 5 mM. The electroosmotic flow velocity increased significantly with an increase in Tris buffer pH from 5 to 7.5, and then remained nearly constant with Tris buffer pH between 7.5 to 9.0. The electroosmotic flow velocity increased with an increase in acetonitrile content from 20 to 50%, and then remained nearly constant with acetonitrile content between 50 to 90%. No bubble formation was observed during CEC operation, and all of the test compounds eluted as symmetrical peaks. The logarithms of the retention factors of the aromatic compounds and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons decreased linearly with an increase in acetonitrile content. For a 21/29 cm×75 μm I.D. monolithic column containing 9% sol–gel bonded 5 μm ODS, approximately 2.7×104 theoretical plates (plate height 7.8 μm; 1.3×105 theoretical plates per meter) were measured. It was found that the resistance to mass transfer of unretained thiourea was small, which was attributed to partial filling of the small pores in the particulate packing and partial filling of the interstitial space by the porous sol–gel network. The procedure for column fabrication was simple, and three columns were prepared without failure.
Correlation between electronic and visual readings of pocket depths with a newly developed constant force probe.

Abstract The purpose of this study was to compare probing measurements obtained using a newly developed constant force electronic probe, which eliminates errors of visual reading and variable force, to those obtained using a standard periodontal probe. The probe was connected to a digital readout through a linear variable differential transformer; the digital readout was connected to a printer and a foot switch. When the probe was in position and the foot switch depressed, the pocket depth was printed to the nearest 0.1 mm. 12 subjects with minimal to early periodontitis were selected for the study. The pocket depths of each patient were recorded electronically utilizing a constant force of 25 g, and conventionally using the same instrument in a “locked” position and visual reading. Probings were performed on each subject by 3 different examiners, on 3 separate occasions 2–3 days apart. The results showed a high correlation between manual and electronic probing. The average correlations for the 3 investigators between examinations were consistently higher for the electronic probings. In comparing the 3 examiners to each other, consistently higher correlations were found for the electronic pocket readings. Correlations for single-rooted teeth were lower for all 3 examiners. The pocket depth measurements recorded when using the manual probe with visual readings were consistently deeper than those obtained using the electronic probe with computer readings. It was concluded that the reproducibility of measurements obtained with the electronic probe was significantly superior to that obtained with a manual probe.
The adsorption of H2O on Ni(111); influence of preadsorbed oxygen on azimuthal ordering

Abstract ESDIAD (electron stimulated desorption ion angular distribution), LEED and TPD (temperature programmed thermal desorption) have been used to study the adsorption of H2O on Ni(111), both clean and with preadsorbed oxygen. On the clean surface, a fractional H2O monolayer adsorbed at 80 K exhibits no preferred azimuthal orientation for the H atoms; the local bonding configurations of H2O have a nearly random distribution. Only one state is seen in TPD for a fractional H2O monolayer (Tp ∼ 170K) and a weak ( 3 × 3 ) LEED pattern appears after saturation of the first H2O layer. When a fractional monolayer of H2O is coadsorbed with a low-coverage annealed oxygen layer (θO ≲0.05), a sharp, intense three-fold ESDIAD pattern of H+ ions appears, suggesting that there are three configurations of H2O having H atoms oriented azimuthally in [ 11 2] directions. We postulate that H2O is bonded to the surface via the oxygen lone-pair orbitals, and that H2O interacts with a neighboring O atom via a hydrogen bond. This leads to local azimuthal ordering in the absence of long-range order. Upon heating to 120 K, an H-abstraction reaction leads to the formation of OH(ads). Further heating leads to the formation of H2O (which desorbs) and O(ads).
Construction and Evaluation of a LEGO Spectrophotometer for Student Use

A simple visible-wavelength spectrophotometer has been constructed for educational purposes. The spectrophotometer contains simple, inexpensive components students can easily work with (small flashlight bulbs, batteries, etc.) and uses LEGO pieces for construction of the optical support elements. The spectrophotometer was designed to give students hands-on experience with typical spectrophotometer modules so that they may understand the important stages in the design of a scientific instrument. The spectrophotometer was characterized by examining an absorption spectrum and calibration curves of potassium permanganate.
Etravirine: A second-generation nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) active against NNRTI-resistant strains of HIV

Abstract Background: Since 1981, the AIDs epidemic has continued to expand and, at the end of 2007, there were ~33 million people worldwide living with HIV, including 1.2 million in North America. Objective: This article provides a comprehensive overview of the nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) etravirine when used in treatment-experienced adult patients with multidrug-resistant HIV infections. Methods: Relevant information was gathered through a search of MEDLINE ( 1966—December 2008) and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970–December 2008) databases, as well as abstracts of the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (2006–2008) and the Interscience Conference on Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy (2002–2008). Clinical trial data were limited to human studies that were Phase IIa or higher. The search terms used were etravirine and TMC125 . References were also identified through screening of citations in the articles gathered. Results: Etravirine is an NNRTI that is able to adapt its binding orientation and overcome common NNRTI resistance associated mutations (RAMs) such as K103N. It was originally formulated in polyethylene glycol (PEG), but pharmacokinetic studies using an updated tablet formulation identified a more favorable absorption profile that has allowed the study of lower doses (200 mg instead of 900 mg BID). Phase IIa studies using the PEG formulation of etravirine found that viral loads were reduced in both treatment-naive and treatment-experienced patients with HIV (−1.99 vs −0.86 log10 copies/mL; P P = 0.005 and P P P 3 CD4 cell count change from baseline; P P Conclusion: Etravirine is an NNRTI that was reported to be effective when used as part of an optimized, highly active antiretroviral therapy regimen in NNRTI treatment-experienced adult patients with HIV.
Neonatal Gastrointestinal Innate Immunity

After completing this article, readers should be able to: 1. Describe the largest surface area of the body that separates the external from the internal environment and the first line of defense that prevents breakdown of this barrier. 2. Delineate the components of the innate immune system. 3. Characterize some of the agents that mediate interplay between the innate and adaptive immune systems. 4. Describe how the integrity of the gastrointestinal innate immune system may relate to specific autoimmune diseases. Evidence is accumulating that the defense mechanisms in the newborn that normally maintain a healthy balance in the intestine (both immune and nonimmune) may be inadequate or at least not functioning at levels observed in adults. Infants, particularly undernourished infants, may be at an increased risk for luminal proliferation of and mucosal invasion by microbial pathogens and intact dietary antigens. The gastrointestinal (GI) tract presents the largest surface area of the body to which antigens and microbes are exposed. The intestine, therefore, must have intricate mechanisms to allow entry of nutrients and other beneficial molecules while preventing potentially harmful microbes and other agents from gaining entry into the inner milieu. Several factors lead to a hostile GI environment that predisposes the preterm infant to disease. These include the introduction of feeding tubes into the stomach or more distal intestine, the routine use of broad-spectrum antibiotics that select for resistant pathogens that thrive in the unusual microbial environment of the neonatal intensive care unit, intrinsic immaturities of the infant GI tract, and the lack of adequate nutrition. Intestinal defenses may be broadly divided into immune and nonimmune categories. The nonimmune system sometimes also is referred to as the innate immune system (Fig. 1). Although there is considerable overlap between the immune and nonimmune systems, this review focuses primarily on the innate arm of the intestinal …
Critical age-dependent branching process diffusions

Abstract Two diffusions are derived as the limits in finite dimensional distributions of appropriately conditioned and scaled critical age-dependent branching processes. A technical lemma about the asymptotic behavior of the joint generating function is used to overcome the difficulties introduced by the non-Markov nature of the process. The results are extensions of those of Lamperti and Ney [5] for Galton-Watson processes. Also, the “age-dependent Q -process” is defined and its transition probabilities obtained.
Feather retention force in broilers ante-, peri-, and post-mortem as influenced by electrical and carbon dioxide stunning

Abstract Stunning and slaughter trials were conducted to evaluate the influence of stunning method (electrical 50 V alternating current, CO2 gas: 0 to 40% for 90 s or 40 to 60% for 30 s) on feather retention force (FRF) in commercial broilers. Feathers from the pectoral, sternal, and femoral feather tracts were sampled with a force gauge before stunning (ante-mortem) and contralaterally either after stunning (peri-mortem from 0.5 to 4 min) or after stunning and bleeding (post-mortem from 2 to 6 min). Prior to stunning, ante-mortem FRF values varied among assigned stunning methods only for the pectoral (7%) feather tract. After stunning, peri-mortem FRF values were higher only for the sternal tract (11% for 40 to 60% CO2 for 30 s); whereas after stunning and bleeding, post-mortem FRF values were lower than ante- or peri-mortem only for the sternal tract (10% lower for 40 to 60% CO2 for 30 s). Peri- and post-mortem FRF values did not differ among stunning methods for the pectoral and femoral feather tracts. Small changes in FRF values occurred from ante-mortem to peri-mortem (-1 to +12%), and from ante-mortem to post-mortem (-2 to +8%) across stunning methods. A significant increase was determined for only the pectoral tract (7%) from ante- to peri-mortem across stunning methods. Electrically stunned broilers that were not bled gained weight in excess of the 36 feathers removed (0.16%), apparently due to body surface water pickup during the brine-stunning process, whereas CO2-stunned broilers lost weight due to excretion of cloacal contents (-0.31 to -0.98%). The change in body weight among stunning methods was significant (P
Patterns of aspirin use among American youth.

The use of aspirin was ascertained in several population cohorts. In the college age samples, aspirin had been used in the previous 48-hour period by one of every 4 students. Females reported a higher rate (33.2%) than males (16.9%). In the 4th to 12th grade samples, aspirin use was higher than other drugs with 39.6% of the 3,306 students sampled indicating that they had ingested aspirin during the previous week. In a 9-11 year-old category, 25% of these 4th to 6th graders used aspirin without parental knowledge. The relationship of aspirin use and drug education is discussed.
Psychometric Properties of the Posttraumatic Cognitions Inventory (PTCI): a replication with motor vehicle accident survivors.

This study examined the factor structure, internal consistency, concurrent validity, discriminant validity, and discriminative validity of the Posttraumatic Cognitions Inventory (PTCI; E. B. Foa, A. Ehlers, D. M. Clark, D. F. Tolin, & S. M. Orsillo, 1999) in a sample of 112 individuals who had experienced a serious motor vehicle accident. Results generally supported the 3-factor structure of the PTCI: (a) Negative Cognitions About Self, (b) Negative Cognitions About the World, and (c) Self-Blame. Subscales reflecting negative thoughts of the self and world showed adequate internal consistency, as well as good concurrent, discriminant, and discriminative validity. However, difficulties with the subscale representing self-blame emerged, specifically poor concurrent and discriminant validity. Potential reasons for this finding are discussed. The PTCI seems to be a promising measure of negative and dysfunctional posttrauma cognitions, which deserves continuing attention.
Numerical solution of differential equations in the deterministic limit of stochastic theory

Although the methodology of stochastic differential equations was developed to achieve statistical separability in the stochastic case, the deterministic limit is investigated both as a verification of the theory and also for possible value as a deterministic technique.
Tuning the Band Gap in Hybrid Tin Iodide Perovskite Semiconductors Using Structural Templating

Structural distortions within the extensive family of organic/inorganic hybrid tin iodide perovskite semiconductors are correlated with their experimental exciton energies and calculated band gaps. The extent of the in- and out-of-plane angular distortion of the SnI42- perovskite sheets is largely determined by the relative charge density and steric requirements of the organic cations. Variation of the in-plane Sn−I−Sn bond angle was demonstrated to have the greatest impact on the tuning of the band gap, and the equatorial Sn−I bond distances have a significant secondary influence. Extended Huckel tight-binding band calculations are employed to decipher the crystal orbital origins of the structural effects that fine-tune the band structure. The calculations suggest that it may be possible to tune the band gap by as much as 1 eV using the templating influence of the organic cation.
Zirconium determination by cooling curve analysis during the pyroprocessing of used nuclear fuel

Abstract An alternative method to sampling and chemical analyses has been developed to monitor the concentration of zirconium in real-time during the casting of uranium products from the pyroprocessing of used nuclear fuel. The method utilizes the solidification characteristics of the uranium products to determine zirconium levels based on standard cooling curve analyses and established binary phase diagram data. Numerous uranium products have been analyzed for their zirconium content and compared against measured zirconium data. From this data, the following equation was derived for the zirconium content of uranium products: Zr = 0.14 M + 131.56 - 12.63 ( 348.65 - 0.16 LT ) 1 / 2 where M is the mass (kg) of the ingot and LT is the liquidus temperature (K) found by cooling curve analyses. Based on this equation, a reasonable fit of calculated to measured zirconium content was established considering the errors in the system.
Interaction of Cytosolic Glutamine Synthetase of Soybean Root Nodules with the C-terminal Domain of the Symbiosome Membrane Nodulin 26 Aquaglyceroporin

Nodulin 26 (nod26) is a major intrinsic protein that constitutes the major protein component on the symbiosome membrane (SM) of N2-fixing soybean nodules. Functionally, nod26 forms a low energy transport pathway for water, osmolytes, and NH3 across the SM. Besides their transport functions, emerging evidence suggests that high concentrations of major intrinsic proteins on membranes provide interaction and docking targets for various cytosolic proteins. Here it is shown that the C-terminal domain peptide of nod26 interacts with a 40-kDa protein from soybean nodule extracts, which was identified as soybean cytosolic glutamine synthetase GS1β1 by mass spectrometry. Fluorescence spectroscopy assays show that recombinant soybean GS1β1 binds the nod26 C-terminal domain with a 1:1 stoichiometry (Kd = 266 nm). GS1β1 also binds to isolated SMs, and this binding can be blocked by preincubation with the C-terminal peptide of nod26. In vivo experiments using either a split ubiquitin yeast two-hybrid system or bimolecular fluorescence complementation show that the four cytosolic GS isoforms expressed in soybean nodules interact with full-length nod26. The binding of GS, the principal ammonia assimilatory enzyme, to the conserved C-terminal domain of nod26, a transporter of NH3, is proposed to promote efficient assimilation of fixed nitrogen, as well as prevent potential ammonia toxicity, by localizing the enzyme to the cytosolic side of the symbiosome membrane.
Healthcare and Listening: A Relationship for Caring

The optimal relationship between healthcare provider and patient is one of trust. This therapeutic relationship is dependent on the ability of the healthcare provider to communicate effectively with the patient. Research indicates that when healthcare providers listen to patients, there is more compliance with medical regimens, patient satisfaction is increased, and physicians are less vulnerable to malpractice lawsuits. Within the last few decades, the relationship between physician and patient has been reconceptualized from a paternalistic relationship to a partnership between provider and patient. This change is demanding a shift in how healthcare providers communicate and, in particular, listen to patients. To address this need, medical organizations such as the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education has emphasized improved training and competence in communication skills of physicians. Effective communication and listening also is critical to the ethical treatment of patients and their f...
Applications and Emerging Trends of Hyaluronic Acid in Tissue Engineering, as a Dermal Filler, and in Osteoarthritis Treatment

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring biodegradable polymer with a variety of applications in medicine, including scaffolding for tissue engineering, dermatological fillers and viscosupplementation for osteoarthritis treatment. HA is available in most connective tissues in body fluids such as synovial fluid and the vitreous humor of the eye. HA is responsible for several structural properties of tissues as a component of extracellular matrix and is involved in cellular signaling. Degradation of HA is a stepwise process that can occur via enzymatic or non-enzymatic reactions. A reduction in HA mass or molecular weight via degradation or slowing of synthesis affects physical and chemical properties such as tissue volume, viscosity and elasticity. This review addresses the distribution, turnover and tissue-specific properties of HA. This information is used as the context for considering recent products and strategies for modifying the viscoelastic properties of HA in tissue engineering, as a dermal filler and in osteoarthritis treatment.
Breeding soundness examinations in 18 closely related inbred Angus bulls

Abstract During a 5 month period, 82 breeding soundness examinations were conducted on 18 closely related Angus bulls. Twelve of the bulls had inbreeding coefficients of .25 and 6 of the bulls had coefficients of .02. The bulls ranged from 337 to 394 days of age at the initial examinations. The breeding soundness examinations indicated that the bulls as a group were subfertile. Of the 14 bulls not changing breeding soundness examination classifications during the 5 months, 7(50%) were “satisfactory”, 5(36%) were “questionable”, and 2(14%) were “unsatisfactory”. Scrotal circumference measurements for the “satisfactory” bulls at the last examinations averaged 34.6 cm. Six of the 18 bulls had persistent penile frenulums at the time of the initial examinations.
X-ray micro-computed tomography of beech wood and biomorphic C, SiC and Al/SiC composites

The microstructures of beech wood and of beech wood-derived carbon, silicon carbide (SiC), and an aluminum/SiC composite were studied using both scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and synchrotron X-ray micro-computed tomography (µCT). As opposed to traditional two-dimensional imaging techniques, the µCT data allowed nondestructive evaluation of relatively large sample volumes. Nondestructive three-dimensional data analysis led to the observation of microstructural features, such as varying pore-wall topographies not previously seen in SEM, calculations of the volume fraction of porosity and characterization of the interconnectivity of porosity in the SiC material.
Production and examination of ternary Pu-Al-Ir intermetallic phases

Abstract Phase studies performed on a Pu-Al-Ir ternary specimen in both quenched and annealed conditions are described. Two ternary intermetallic phases were identified by electron microprobe examination: The major phase was found to have a stoichiometry corresponding to the previously unreported compound PuAlIr. The minor phase was also found to be of ternary composition but more Al-rich, X-ray diffraction analysis of the major ternary phase is described. No structural determination has been made, but the X-ray data are included. Differential thermal analysis has shown both phases to be stable to at least 1450°C
Artificial intelligence and expert systems in law enforcement: Current and potential uses

Abstract Artificial intelligence technologies (e.g., natural language processing, robotics, and expert systems) are emerging in the law enforcement field. By the year 2000 artificial intelligence will be widely used and should revolutionize the way police agencies function. This article looks at artificial intelligence with special emphasis on expert systems because these problem-solving programs are expected to have the most impact on administration and operations. The future of expert systems is then set out.
Support for Indoor Bans on Electronic Cigarettes among Current and Former Smokers

Objectives: Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use is increasing in the U.S. Although marketed as a safer alternative for cigarettes, initial evidence suggests that e-cigarettes may pose a secondhand exposure risk. The current study explored the prevalence and correlates of support for e-cigarette bans. Methods: A sample of 265 current/former smokers completed a cross-sectional telephone survey from June–September 2014; 45% Black, 31% White, 21% Hispanic. Items assessed support for home and workplace bans for cigarettes and e-cigarettes and associated risk perceptions. Results: Most participants were aware of e-cigarettes (99%). Results demonstrated less support for complete e-cigarette bans in homes and workplaces compared to cigarettes. Support for complete e-cigarette bans was strongest among older, higher income, married respondents, and former smokers. Complete e-cigarette bans were most strongly endorsed when perceptions of addictiveness and health risks were high. While both e-cigarette lifetime and never-users strongly supported cigarette smoking bans, endorsement for e-cigarette bans varied by lifetime use and intentions to use e-cigarettes. Conclusions: Support for indoor e-cigarette bans is relatively low among individuals with a smoking history. Support for e-cigarette bans may change as evidence regarding their use emerges. These findings have implications for public health policy.
H-Y Male Antigen: Detection on Eight-Cell Mouse Embryos

The H-Y (male) antigen is expressed on 50 percent of eight-cell embryos (2 days old) of the mouse, strain C57BL/6. This work provides additional evidence that H-Y expression is not dependent on male differentiation.
Cryptic plasmids of thermophilic actinomycetes isolated from composts

The natural occurrence of plasmids in thermophilic actinomycetes was investigated. Actinomycetes capable of growth at 55°C were isolated, using membrane filters, from organic composts containg agricultural wastes and manure. True actinomycetes producing a white aerial mycelium, which were susceptible to one or more Thermomonospora bacteriophages, were isolated most frequently. Thermophilic actinomycetes were screened for covalently closed DNA (CCCDNA), using a neutral cleared lysate procedure followed by acidic phenol extraction for removal of chromosomal fragments. Two isolates were found to possess plasmids 8–13 kbp in length. 13 kbp plasmids found in both isolates exhibited identical fragment patterns following digestion with restriction endonucleases. Analysis of CCCDNA recovered from density gradients revealed the presence of a larger plasmid in both isolates.
Effects of temperature on the performance of finishing swine: II. Effects of a cold, diurnal temperature on average daily gain, feed intake, and feed efficiency.

Ninety-six crossbred barrows and gilts weighing 90 +/- .67 kg were used during a 21-d study to determine the effects of a hot, diurnal temperature (H; 22.5 to 35 degrees C) compared with a constant, thermoneutral temperature (TN; 20 degrees C) and the effects of sex (barrows vs gilts) on performance. A secondary objective included the determination of weight loss as a result of a 24-h fast immediately after the 21-d feeding study of commingled vs not commingled hogs of both environmental treatments (TN and H). Pigs housed in the hot, diurnal temperature gained 16.3% more slowly (P less than .001;.77 vs. .92 kg/d) than those in the constant, thermoneutral environment. Feed intake (FI) for the H pigs was 10.9% less (P less than .001; 3.01 vs 3.38 kg/d) than that for the TN pigs. The H pigs gained 17.6 g/d less and consumed 43.5 g/d less feed for every C degrees above 20 degrees C; however, no differences were observed for feed efficiency (F/G; 3.86 vs 4.19 kg for the TN and H pigs, respectively). Average daily gain and feed/gain (F/G) were not affected by sex. Likewise, no significant interactions of temperature x sex were observed for ADG, FI, or F/G. Weight loss (shrinkage) during the 24-h fast was not affected by commingling; however, the H pigs lost 17.5% more weight (P less than .05) than the TN pigs (3.82 vs 3.25%, respectively).
Lightweight Hybrid Foam with Dimensional Stability

Availability of advanced materials has opened up opportunities in meeting several functional requirements through hybridization. Hybrids consisting of ceramics, metals and high performance polymers could benefit many aircraft and space satellite applications. They could meet requirements of low weight, high environmental stability, and high thermal or dimensional stability. In this study, hybrid materials consisting of high performance polymer, porous ceramics (glass microballoons) and other constituents such as Zircornium Tungstate (with negative coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE)) and nanoclay were studied. Specimens were successfully produced with a range of density from 0.4 to 1.1 g/cm3 depending on the degree of fill in the syntactic foams. CTE tailoring was achieved to greatly reduce the residual stress arising from processing and CTE mismatch of dissimilar materials. The evaluations of dimensional stability were examined from thermomechanical analysis. The synergistic effects of resin, ceramic constituents and pores on the hybrid properties will be presented.
Milanjilactones A and B, two novel cytotoxic norditerpene dilactones from Podocarpus milanjianus Rendle

Two new cytotoxic norditerpene dilactones, milanjilactones A(3) and B(4) have been isolated from the stem bark ofPodocarpus milanjianus Rendle and characterized, on the basis of spectroscopic evidence, as 1,2-dehydro derivatives of nagilactones F(1) and G(2).
Assessment of the Embryonic Stem Cell Test and application and use in the pharmaceutical industry.

BACKGROUND: The European Centre for the Validation of Alternative Methods (ECVAM) designed the Embryonic Stem Cell Test (EST) as a tool for classifying developmentally toxic compounds. An in vitro tool to assess developmental toxicity would be of great value to the pharmaceutical industry to help with toxicity-associated attrition. METHODS: ECVAM's EST protocol was used, but employing a different mouse embryonic stem cell (ESC) line and an alternative differentiation medium. A subset of the compounds used to validate the EST assay along with a number of in-house pharmaceutical compounds plus marketed pharmaceutical compounds were used to assess the EST performance with receptor-mediated compounds. RESULTS: Our results with ECVAM compounds mirrored ECVAM's. Compounds that were developmentally toxic in vivo were classified by the EST as moderate risk. Overall, the accuracy was 75% with the current set of data and the predictivity of low-, moderate-, and high-risk compounds was 90, 71, and 60% while the precision was 59, 86, and 100%, respectively. Interestingly, a number of the non-developmentally toxic compounds had values for the 3T3 IC50 values, which were lower than the ESC IC50 and ID50, a situation not taken into account by ECVAM when designing the EST algorithm. CONCLUSIONS: The assay as currently constructed has a significant false-positive rate (∼40%), but a very low false-negative rate (∼7%). Additional moderate- and high-risk compounds need to be assessed to increase confidence, accuracy, and understanding in the EST's predictivity. Birth Defects Res (Part B), 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Intervention with the selectively mute child

The term selectively mute describes children who actively choose to speak to a few people in selected environments. It is most commonly used to describe nonverbal behavior in the school setting. In this paper, the literature from both the psychoanalytic and learning theory approaches is first reviewed and then the intervention strategies used with two selectively mute children are presented in terms of the underlying principles upon which the interventions were based. Implications for the school psychologist are discussed.
Biceps Tendon Changes Along Its Length, and With Altered Loading, in the Presence of Rotator Cuff Tears in a Rat Model

Biceps tendon pathology is commonly seen in the presence of rotator cuff tears and is often identified as a source of shoulder pain. However, the contribution of the biceps tendon to shoulder function is controversial and therefore the etiology of this pathology and its optimal treatment are unknown. Degeneration, inflammation and altered loading have all been hypothesized as possible mechanisms for biceps tendon pathologies. A previous study began to investigate the contribution of altered loading to these pathologies and showed that 4 weeks of increased loading resulted in decreased mechanical properties along the entire length of the tendon while decreased loading resulted in increased stiffness at the insertion site but decreased properties elsewhere [1]. Building on this study, the objective of the present study was to determine the effects of a longer period of altered loading along the length of the biceps tendon in order to determine where biceps tendon pathology originates following rotator cuff tears in a rat model. We hypothesized that: 1) increased loading would result in decreased mechanical and histological properties and decreased loading would result in increased mechanical properties and organization and 2) modulus and organization would increase along the length of the biceps tendon.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Association of cellular thiol redox status with mitogen-induced calcium mobilization and cell cycle progression in human fibroblasts.

Human gingival fibroblast cultures were used to investigate the role of cellular thiol redox status in the mitogenic response. Increases in intracellular Ca2+ and cell cycle progression beyond G1 were followed as parameters of cellular mitogen-induced responses. Ethionine provided a G1 stage synchronization and altered the cellular redox poise as measured by the ratio NAD(P)H/NAD(P)+. Cultures harvested immediately after the 6 day ethionine low-serum synchronization showed a significant oxidation of their redox poise. Synchronized cultures, which were also glutathione (GSH) depleted, still showed an oxidized redox poise and significantly reduced GSH levels following a 24 hr incubation in drug-free, rich medium. Cellular reduced nicotinamide nucleotide levels correlated strongly (r = 0.995) with capacity to mobilize intracellular Ca2+ in response to basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). The sustained mitogenic response, as determined by cell cycle progression beyond G1, was also found to be interrelated with the cellular thiol redox status. Following a 24 hr recovery incubation in serum-rich medium, formerly synchronized cultures showed a rebound of their redox poise to a more reduced state and significant cell cycle progression beyond G1. In contrast, synchronized, GSH-depleted cultures did not progress and showed population distributions similar to those of cultures harvested immediately postsynchronization. Upon recovery of cellular GSH and reduced nicotinamide nucleotide levels, formerly GSH-depleted, growth-arrested cultures resumed cell cycle progression. The results suggest that the cellular response to specific mitogens is interrelated with the cellular thiol redox status. Cells that posses a thiol redox status below a threshold response point may have compromised Ca2+ sequestration and/or mobilization and therefore may be incapable of initiating the mitogen induced response cascade that culminates in cell cycle progression.
Spacing patterns of female Drosophila paramelanica

Abstract 1. 1. The spacing patterns of females of Drosophila paramelanica hanging suspended from a moist filter paper were determined. 2. 2. The females were relatively uniformly spaced. Within limits the mean distance between adjacent flies became more uniform as the population density increased from low levels. At higher densities the spacing pattern of the flies was relatively constant. 3. 3. The number of flies capable of remaining on the filter paper was limited. 4. 4. This limitation of the number of flies and the occurrence of the uniform spacing pattern of the flies are attributable to avoidance reactions made by flies when within 5 mm. of each other.
Production competence and its impact on business performance

Abstract There has been increasing research attention given to production competence as the source of competitive advantage. Viewing production competence as the function of the fit between business strategy and manufacturing structure, the authors examine the impact of production competence on business performance. This study explores how to obtain a fit between business strategy and manufacturing structure and whether the fit will lend a competitive edge to a manufacturing firm. Seven hypotheses concerning the associations among business strategies, manufacturing structural complexity, and business performance are presented. The sample consists of 170 firms operating in U.S. manufacturing industries. Data were obtained via a mail survey and Compustat. The major findings of the research are that (1) there is a significant association between business strategy has a profound influnce on manufacturing structural decisions; and that (2) production competence has a significant association with business performance. A major finding in this research suggests that a manufacturing firm can significantly improve its business performance by attaining a proper alignment of manufacturing structure with business strategy. A paradigm of corporate manufacturing strategy is developed for future research.
Risk of stroke after catheter ablation versus cardioversion for atrial fibrillation: A propensity-matched study of 24,244 patients

Background Stroke is the major cause of morbidity and mortality related to atrial fibrillation (AF). Catheter ablation for AF is effective in reducing AF burden, but its impact on long-term stroke risk is unknown. Objective We sought to evaluate the periprocedural and long-term stroke risk after catheter ablation or cardioversion for AF. Methods This retrospective, propensity-matched study using a national administrative claims database identified patients with AF who underwent catheter ablation and a comparison group (matched on age, sex, year of treatment, CHA2DS2-Vasc score, and Charlson index) who underwent cardioversion between 2005 and 2012. The primary end points were (1) time to first ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) and (2) time to first ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke excluding TIA. We compared periprocedural incident stroke (within 30 days of ablation or cardioversion) as well as total strokes between the 2 groups. Results A total of 24,244 patients (12,122 patients undergoing ablation and 12,122 patients undergoing cardioversion) were included in the analysis. Incident periprocedural stroke or TIA occurred in 0.5% of the ablation group and 0.3% of the cardioversion group (P = .04). There was a significant initial risk of stroke/TIA with ablation within the first 30 days (rate ratio 1.53; P = .05). After 30 days, this risk was significantly lower in the ablation group (rate ratio 0.78; P = .03). Conclusion In patients with AF, there is a small periprocedural stroke risk with ablation in comparison to cardioversion. However, over longer-term follow-up, ablation is associated with a slightly lower rate of stroke.
‘Waiting for Superman’ to save black people: racial representation and the official antiracism of neoliberal school reform

The author argues that the documentary, Waiting for Superman, effectively employs bodies and texts in ways that reproduce hegemonic constructions of race, and more specifically, offers an image and imagination of black engagement in education that reinforces neoliberal-multicultural narratives about black disinterest in, and responsibility for their own lack of educational attainment. Black subjects are understood as sympathetic primarily because, and only to the extent that they accept individual ‘responsibility’ and move toward neoliberal school ‘choices’ as a corrective for their own past cultural and educational shortcomings. The author also uses his analysis to encourage a (re-)commitment to critical cultural analysis of racial signification in educational policy discourse.