cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rates and determinants of oral human papillomavirus infection in young men.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is an etiologic agent for oropharyngeal cancers, with the strongest associations observed for cancer of the tonsils.1 Among HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancers, up to 90% are associated with HPV type 16 (HPV-16).2 Although head and neck cancers are rare in the United States, there has been a significant increase in HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer in the last 30 years.3 This increase has been especially notable in the last 10 years and has occurred predominately in males, among whom oropharyngeal cancer is more common.4 If current trends continue, the annual number of new HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer cases in the United States could surpass that of cervical cancer by 2020.5 Prevalence estimates for HPV in the oral cavity or oropharynx, known collectively as oral HPV infection, vary substantially from study to study ( 50%7). The variability has been attributed to differences in study populations and approaches to specimen collection, processing, and testing. A recent population-based study estimated oral HPV prevalence among 14–69 year-olds in the US as 6.9%.8 No such estimate is available for incidence. Although transmission of HPV to the oral cavity and oropharynx is hypothesized to occur mainly through sexual contact, determinants of acquisition have not been fully established through longitudinal studies. Cross-sectional associations between prevalent oral HPV infection and sexual behaviors, such as higher numbers of vaginal sex partners or oral sex partners, have been observed in some studies,8–11 but not others.12,13 Prevalent oral HPV infection also has been linked with male sex, increasing age, cigarette smoking, and cervical HPV infection.8–12,14,15 We conducted a longitudinal study to determine the prevalence and incidence of oral alpha-genus HPV infection (overall and by HPV type) in young men, and to examine factors associated with new infection.
Effect of glutaraldehyde on skin grafts.

SummaryExperiments were performed in order to investigate the mode of action of glutaraldehyde in the prolongation of skin grafts. 1. Glutaraldehyde-incubated grafts had prolonged survival (35 days) when compared to untreated controls (15.5 days). 2. Glutaraldehyde-treated isografts were destroyed at 95 days. 3. Glutaraldehyde-treated second isografts were also destroyed at 3 months. 4. Histologic examination of glutaraldehyde-treated grafts showed a bizarre, poorly vascularized, poorly defined histology, probably incompatible with viability.
Management of Aortic Dissection: Medical Therapy and Intervention. Is There a Growing Role for Endovascular Techniques?

Historically, type B aortic dissection was managed as a medical condition with limited surgical intervention unless aortic rupture occurred. Today, however, evidence is building that highlights the importance of strict medical management, timely surveillance, and windows of opportunity for surgical intervention to address both early and late aortic-based morbidities.
The preparation and processing of bulk superconducting ceramic Nd 1.85 Ce 0.15 CuO 4 - y

We report the development of a reaction technique which yields ceramic Nd 1.85 Ce 0.15 CuO 4−y with macroscopically uniform concentrations of Ce and O. Under appropriate argon annealing conditions, samples exhibiting bulk superconductivity as gauged by resistive transition width and diamagnetic shielding are obtained. In addition. metallic behavior, indicated by positive dp/dT above T c , is obtained for the normal state.
Association of intravenous morphine use and outcomes in acute coronary syndromes: Results from the CRUSADE Quality Improvement Initiative

Background Although intravenous morphine is commonly used for the treatment of chest pain in patients presenting with non–ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndromes (NSTE ACS), its safety has not been evaluated. The CRUSADE Initiative is a nonrandomized, retrospective, observational registry enrolling patients with NSTE ACS to evaluate acute medications and interventions, inhospital outcomes, and discharge treatments. Methods The study population comprised patients presenting with NSTE ACS at 443 hospitals across the United States from January 2001 through June 2003 (n = 57,039). Outcomes were evaluated in patients receiving morphine versus not and between patients treated with morphine versus intravenous nitroglycerin. Results A total of 17,003 patients (29.8%) received morphine within 24 hours of presentation. Patients treated with any morphine had a higher adjusted risk of death (odds ratio [OR] 1.48, 95% CI 1.33-1.64) than patients not treated with morphine. Relative to those receiving nitroglycerin, patients treated with morphine also had a higher adjusted likelihood of death (OR 1.50, 95% CI 1.26-1.78). Utilizing a propensity score matching method, the use of morphine was associated with increased inhospital mortality (OR 1.41, 95% CI 1.26-1.57). The increased risk of death in patients receiving morphine persisted across all measured subgroups. Conclusions Use of morphine either alone or in combination with nitroglycerin for patients presenting with NSTE ACS was associated with higher mortality even after risk adjustment and matching on propensity score for treatment. This analysis raises concerns regarding the safety of using morphine in patients with NSTE ACS and emphasizes the need for a randomized trial. (Am Heart J 2005;149:.)
Post-transcriptional control of tubulin biosynthesis during leishmanial differentiation.

Controls of gene expression can occur at different levels during cell differentiation. Using an in vitro culture system1, we have studied protein biosynthesis during the differentiation of a parasitic protozoan, Leishmania mexicana. There are two developmental stages in the life cycle of this and similar parasites: motile extracellular promastigotes in the sandfly gut and non-motile intracellular amastigotes in the mammalian macrophages. Intracellular parasitism by the latter results in human leishmaniases, diseases still widespread in many parts of the world2. During leishmanial differentiation from one stage to the other, we observed changes in tubulin biosynthesis, concomitant with the morphological changes of these parasites in the length of their flagella and subpellicular microtubules3. With few exceptions4,5 tubulin biosynthesis is known to be under transcriptional control in other eukaryotic systems6–12. Here we have examined the protein synthesis during leishmanial differentiation in in vitro translation systems using total cellular poly(A)+ RNA from amastigotes and promastigotes. Contrary to our expectations, the results indicate a post-transcriptional control for the tubulin biosynthesis during leishmanial differentiation in our host–parasite culture system.
Meniscal Allograft Transplantation

Purpose Meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) has become an accepted treatment option for patients undergoing meniscectomy with recalcitrant pain in the corresponding compartment. Whether MAT can oppose cartilage degeneration is unclear. Our purpose was to perform a systematic review of available literature to answer the following: (1) Does MAT prevent advancing chondrosis? (2) Who is the ideal candidate for MAT? (3) What is the survival time for allograft in a stable knee? (4) Can MAT be successful when performed with concomitant procedures? (5) Is there an outcome difference between medial and lateral meniscal allograft transplants? (6) What is the expected function of a knee that has undergone MAT? Methods Two authors performed a systematic review of the literature pertaining to MAT. Included in the review are studies with at least 2 years' follow-up, studies with validated outcome measures, and studies in which the allograft meniscal horns were secured with bony fixation. Results We identified 14 clinical articles that satisfied our inclusion and exclusion criteria. Thirteen of the articles provided Level IV evidence, and one article provided Level III evidence. Conclusions MAT can result in alleviation of knee pain, improvement in knee function, and good patient satisfaction if performed in the optimal candidate. Improvements in both objective and subjective outcome measures were shown in relatively young patients without significant chondromalacia who underwent concomitant procedures for cartilage defects, limb malalignment, and/or knee instability. We detected no significant difference in outcomes when comparing medial and lateral meniscal allograft transplants. We detected no significant difference when comparing isolated MAT with MAT performed with concomitant procedures. Level of Evidence Level IV, systematic review of Level III and IV studies.
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) of Synzymes: Use of Molecular Mechanics (MM) for the Rational Design of Superoxide Dismutase Mimics.

Mn(II) complexes of C-substituted macrocyclic 1,4,7,10,13-pentaazacyclopentadecane ligands have been shown to be excellent functional mimics (Synzymes) of the native enzyme manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn SOD). To better understand the profound effects that substituents exert on the SOD catalytic activity, we have utilized molecular mechanics (MM) calculations employing the CAChe system. Such a conformational analysis has made it possible to develop a consistent model that correlates catalytic rate with the ability of the ligand to adopt a folded geometry about the high-spin d5 spherically symmetrical Mn(II) ion, thus affording a six-coordinate pseudo-octahedral geometry (the geometry required by Mn(III)). This conformational analysis is consistent with the model that one of the nitrogen donors of the pentaaza crown ligand folds to occupy a pseudo-axial coordination position of an octahedron. The ΔE between the lowest energy folded ligand structure about Mn(II) and its corresponding Mn(III) structure c...
Isotopic characterisation of kerogen-like material in the Murchison carbonaceous chondrite

Data on isotopic composition of C, H, and N in insoluble organic fraction from the Murchison CM chondrite were used to discriminate between different theories for the origin of prebiotic organic material in the early solar system. Considerable isotopic variability was found among the samples and attributed to kerogen-like organic fraction. Three to four different isotopic components, two of them of polycyclic aromatic nature, were tentatively identified. Aliphatic moieties in the kerogen-like material, most of the polycyclic aromatic network, and extractable amino acids were found to carry a highly D-enriched component believed to have originated in an interstellar molecular cloud. A least part of the polycyclic aromatic fraction may also represent interstellar material.
Integrated resource planning at electric utilities: The planning process

The planning process (as distinct from the plan itself) is a critical, and often neglected, element of utility planning. Regardless of whether the planning is traditional, least-cost, integrated resource, or integrated value-based; cooperation, communication and consensus among the utility planning staff are vital. In early 1986, Puget Power established a Demand and Resource Evaluation (DARE) program, intended to improve its internal plan. This paper describes DARE activities during its initial 18-month cycle. Key lessons learned from DARE include: the need for internal cooperation, the amount of time needed to establish a viable planning activity, the required commitment to planning from top management, the balance between analysis and experience, the value of public participation, and the necessity of developing realistic goals for the initial plan. Puget Power's experience also suggests important roles for state Public Utility Commissions in their regulation of utility planning.
Fracture risk and bone mineral density reduction associated with proton pump inhibitors.

Many patients receive prolonged proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy for upper gastrointestinal disorders, but the long-term safety of PPIs, particularly increased risk of hip and nonhip fractures, has been questioned. To summarize the current literature on the risk of bone mineral density (BMD) reduction and fracture associated with PPI therapy, we conducted a literature search to identify all pertinent studies from 1980-February 2011. A total of 14 observational studies were included in this review. Most studies evaluated the risk of fracture associated with prolonged PPI exposure. Eight studies found an increased fracture risk at the hip, and five studies found an increased fracture risk at the spine associated with PPIs. Three studies showed reduction in fracture risk associated with PPIs after discontinuation for 1 month-1 year. Three studies evaluated the risk of BMD reduction associated with PPIs but did not find consistent changes in baseline or subsequent BMD. The current data suggest a modest increase in the risk of hip fracture and vertebral fracture associated with PPIs, although some studies showed conflicting results. Further studies will be needed to determine whether the increased risk of fracture is due to PPI exposure or residual confounding.
Exploratory study evaluating the association of polymorphisms of angiogenesis genes with hot flashes.

Purpose Hot flashes are a common symptom and an important cause of decreased quality of life in women with breast cancer. Hot flashes involve vasodilatation and flushing, however, their complex etiology is not fully understood. We evaluated the association between germline polymorphisms in genes important to angiogenesis and subjective reporting of hot flashes. Experimental design We recruited 1,244 subjects; 520 were breast cancer cases, 715 were documented healthy controls, and nine were of unknown status. Subjects were asked to provide a blood specimen and complete a questionnaire which included whether they had recently or had ever experienced hot flashes. We evaluated candidate polymorphisms in the following genes: hypoxia inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), VEGF-receptor 2 (VEGFR-2), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), neuropilin-1 (NRP-1), and NRP-2. Testing for an association between polymorphisms and a history of current flashes or ever having hot flashes was performed. Results 441 premenopausal and 533 postmenopausal, Caucasian women were evaluable for hot flash analysis. For premenopausal women the eNOS-786 CT and TT genotypes were significantly associated with a greater likelihood of a subject reporting current hot flashes than the CC genotype (P = 0.03). After adjusting for clinical variables, the genotype association was no longer significant (P = 0.08). For postmenopausal women, the HIF1α 1744 CT and TT genotypes were significantly associated with a greater likelihood of a subject reporting current hot flashes (P = 0.05) and this remained significant after consideration of established clinical variables (P = 0.04). Conclusion Hot flashes may be regulated by genes that control angiogenesis.
First step toward a benchtop model of the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna

A technique for simulating large optical path lengths by use of digital delay buffers is presented. This technique is used to generate a synthetic interferometer with one arm having an arbitrary length. The response of the interferometer to phase and frequency modulation is measured and found to be in agreement with predictions. This technique could be used to simulate long-baseline interferometric space missions such as the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna.
Some inertia theorems in Euclidean Jordan algebras

Abstract This paper deals with some inertia theorems in Euclidean Jordan algebras. First, based on the continuity of eigenvalues, we give an alternate proof of Kaneyuki’s generalization of Sylvester’s law of inertia in simple Euclidean Jordan algebras. As a consequence, we show that the cone spectrum of any quadratic representation with respect to a symmetric cone is finite. Second, we present Ostrowski–Schneider type inertia results in Euclidean Jordan algebras. In particular, we relate the inertias of objects a and x in a Euclidean Jordan algebra when L a ( x ) > 0 or S a ( x ) > 0 , where L a and S a denote Lyapunov and Stein transformations, respectively.
Counseling groups for african american women: A focus on spirituality

Abstract In this article, the authors describe cultural and spiritual traditions within African American women's experience that form the foundation for group counseling strategies. Literature regarding African American women's experience in groups is reviewed. Specific group interventions such as art, music, dance, imagery, journaling, and rituals that aim at transcendence, empowerment, and self-nurturance are explained. Finally, the authors describe the process, activities, themes, and outcomes of an African American Women's Spirituality Group conducted by the third author in which these approaches were employed.
An investigation of the unlubricated friction and wear break-in behavior of a dual-phase steel

Abstract The friction and wear break-in behavior of a dual-phase steel (steel DP 80) was investigated using a stroke-by-stroke fixed ball-on-flat tribometer. The standard rider balls were steel 52100 ball bearings slid at a load of 4.9 N and a velocity of 0.5 cm s −1 . The atmospheres used were air at a relative humidity of (58 ± 3)% and flowing argon gas at a relative humidity of 30% –35%. Surface finishes obtained by 1μm diamond lapping and by dry abrasion with 600 grit SiC cloth were tested. Frictional break-ins were shown to be reproducible on the SiC cloth samples and had a double peak in plots of the friction as a function of the number of strokes. Friction changes were less dramatic for diamond-polished flats. Argon environments reduced the friction and the wear track width. Freshly polished and cleaned surfaces broke in differently to those which had been stored in a desiccator for several weeks and then solvent cleaned before testing. The shapes of the friction break-in curves were altered in similar ways by changes in the surface finish and the test environment; this made it difficult to distinguish any unique effects of either of these variables.
Quantum dynamics of phase transitions in broken symmetry λ φ 4 field theory

We perform a detailed numerical investigation of the dynamics of a single component ``explicitly broken symmetry'' $\ensuremath{\lambda}{\ensuremath{\varphi}}^{4}$ field theory in 1+1 dimensions, using a Schwinger-Dyson equation truncation scheme based on ignoring vertex corrections. In an earlier paper, we called this the bare vertex approximation (BVA). We assume here that the initial state is described by a Gaussian density matrix peaked around some nonzero value of $〈\ensuremath{\varphi}(0)〉,$ and characterized by a single particle Bose-Einstein distribution function at a given temperature. We compute the evolution of the system using three different approximations: the Hartree approximation, the BVA, and a related two-particle irreducible (2PI) $1/N$ expansion, as a function of coupling strength and initial temperature. In the Hartree approximation, the static phase diagram shows that there is a first order phase transition for this system. As we change the initial starting temperature of the system, we find that the BVA relaxes to a new final temperature and exhibits behavior consistent with a second order phase transition. We find that the average fields equilibrate for arbitrary initial conditions in the BVA, unlike the behavior exhibited by the Hartree approximation, and we illustrate how $〈\ensuremath{\varphi}(t)〉$ and $〈\ensuremath{\chi}(t)〉$ depend on the initial temperature and on the coupling constant. The Fourier transform of the two-point functions at late times can be fitted by a Bose-Einstein distribution function whose temperature is independent of momentum. We interpret this as evidence for thermalization.
A flexible Bayesian method for detecting allelic imbalance in RNA-seq data

One method of identifying cis regulatory differences is to analyze allele-specific expression (ASE) and identify cases of allelic imbalance (AI). RNA-seq is the most common way to measure ASE and a binomial test is often applied to determine statistical significance of AI. This implicitly assumes that there is no bias in estimation of AI. However, bias has been found to result from multiple factors including: genome ambiguity, reference quality, the mapping algorithm, and biases in the sequencing process. Two alternative approaches have been developed to handle bias: adjusting for bias using a statistical model and filtering regions of the genome suspected of harboring bias. Existing statistical models which account for bias rely on information from DNA controls, which can be cost prohibitive for large intraspecific studies. In contrast, data filtering is inexpensive and straightforward, but necessarily involves sacrificing a portion of the data. Here we propose a flexible Bayesian model for analysis of AI, which accounts for bias and can be implemented without DNA controls. In lieu of DNA controls, this Poisson-Gamma (PG) model uses an estimate of bias from simulations. The proposed model always has a lower type I error rate compared to the binomial test. Consistent with prior studies, bias dramatically affects the type I error rate. All of the tested models are sensitive to misspecification of bias. The closer the estimate of bias is to the true underlying bias, the lower the type I error rate. Correct estimates of bias result in a level alpha test. To improve the assessment of AI, some forms of systematic error (e.g., map bias) can be identified using simulation. The resulting estimates of bias can be used to correct for bias in the PG model, without data filtering. Other sources of bias (e.g., unidentified variant calls) can be easily captured by DNA controls, but are missed by common filtering approaches. Consequently, as variant identification improves, the need for DNA controls will be reduced. Filtering does not significantly improve performance and is not recommended, as information is sacrificed without a measurable gain. The PG model developed here performs well when bias is known, or slightly misspecified. The model is flexible and can accommodate differences in experimental design and bias estimation.
Beaming photons with spin and orbital angular momentum via a dipole-coupled plasmonic spiral antenna

We analytically and numerically study the emission properties of an electric dipole coupled to a plasmonic spiral structure with different pitch. As a transmitting antenna, the spiral structure couples the radiation from the electric dipole into circularly polarized emitted photons in the far field. The spin carried by the emitted photons is determined by the handedness of the spiral antenna. By increasing the spiral pitch in the unit of surface plasmon wavelength, these circularly polarized photons also gain orbital angular momentum with different topological charges. This phenomenon is attributed to the presence of a geometric phase arising from the interaction of light from point source with the anisotropic spiral structure. The circularly polarized vortex emission from such optically coupled spiral antenna also has high directivity, which may find important applications in quantum optical information, single molecule sensing, and integrated photonic circuits.
FTIR product study of the self-reaction of FC(O)O2 radicals

Abstract Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy has been used to identify and quantify FC(O)OOC(O) F and CO2 as products following the self-reaction of FC(O)O2 radicals. From the observed product yields, it was determined that the reaction proceeds predominately (80%±20%), if not exclusively, via FC(O)O2+FC(O)O2→FC(O)O+FC(O)O+O2, with a minor (20%±20%), or zero contribution by FC(O)O2+FC(O)O2»FC(O)OOC(O)F+02. A lower limit of 3 was deduced for the lifetime of FC(O)O radicals with respect to thermal dissociation into F atoms and CO2 at 298 K and 700 Torr total pressure. Results are discussed with respect to the atmospheric chemistry of hydrofluorocarbons.
Water flow through polymeric and nonaqueous liquid membranes

Osmotic and isotopic water flows through polymeric and nonaqueous liquid membranes have been measured. The polymeric membranes were of the polyethylene–styrene graft copolymer type containing sulfonic acid groups. The nonaqueous liquid membranes were water-saturated 1-butanol and benzene. Osmotic water flux through both types of membranes was larger than isotopic (THO) water flux. Using these data, values for the equivalent pore radius for these membranes have been derived. The significance of such values has been briefly discussed.
A digital computer system for the executive control of a fast neutron laboratory

Abstract The rationale governing the on-line application of a small digital computer to executive control of a fast neutron laboratory inclusive of a Van de Graaff accelerator is discussed. Domains and methods of productive application are defined. The logical concept of the system, the system components and the system operation are detailed in the context of present and future requirements. As an illustrative example, the application of the system to the automated determination of fast neutron total cross sections is described. Benefits and drawbacks of the system are discussed in the light of extensive laboratory experience.
Isothermal crystallization of isotactic polypropylene in dotriacontane. IV: Effect of dilution and crystallization temperature on overall crystallization kinetics

Abstract The overall isothermal crystallization kinetics for isotactic polypropylene (iPP) in dotriacontane was investigated. Half-time was determined via differential scanning calorimetry as a function of the experimentally-controlled variables, dilution and crystallization temperature. Polymer concentration was varied from 100 to 10 wt% iPP in 10 wt% intervals. Crystallization temperature was varied from 415 to 380 K in 1 K intervals. The influence of these variables on crystallization mechanism and spherulitic structure, as implied by the Avrami analysis, was determined, and their influence on fold surface energy was exained by the Lauritzen and Hoffman analysis.
Cointegration, dynamic structure, and the validity of purchasing power parity in African countries

Abstract The purpose of this paper is to test the validity of the purchasing power parity (PPP) in Africa in the context of a multivariate error-correction model. This approach allows for the consideration of long-run elasticities as well as the dynamics of the short-run adjustment of exchange rates to changes in domestic and foreign prices. Monthly data for fourteen African countries are used, and the period examined is 1973:4 through 2007:7 (i.e., 412 observations). Results from long-run cointegration analysis, short-run error correction models, persistence profile analysis and variance decomposition all confirm the validity of PPP in these moderate-to-high inflation countries, where estimates of half-life deviations from PPP are found to be outside the range suggested by Rogoff (1996).
Ecological processes and the ecology of stress: the impacts of abiotic environmental factors

Summary 1. Rapid, effective and enduring responses of physiology and behaviour to perturbations of the environment are key to robustness of an organism (ability to resist perturbations) and resilience (ability to resist and recover quickly from perturbations) so that the normal life cycle can be resumed quickly. 2. Perturbations of the environment can be labile (i.e. eventually subside) or permanent such as when human activity changes the environment in the long term, for example, deforestation, urbanization, etc. 3. Hormonal responses to labile perturbation factors (LPFs) allow organisms to cope during the perturbation and then return to the normal life cycle. These hormonal responses are called stress responses especially in cases when major changes in physiology and behaviour occur (emergency life-history stage). 4. Permanent perturbations require more than just temporary acclimation resulting in changes in range, adaptation or in some cases local extinction. Perturbations can be abiotic, biotic and social, but these are not mutually exclusive. 5. Here I focus on the effects of abiotic perturbation factors and their effects on the hypothalamo-pituitary–adrenal/interrenal axis in vertebrates. There is a great need for more field investigations of responses of free-living populations to perturbations of the environment, especially now that it appears the frequency and intensity of these events is increasing. However, such studies will require a high degree of opportunism on the part of the investigators to take advantage of unpredictable events when they occur.
ASSOCIATIONS IN CHOROPLETH MAP COMPARISON

ABSTRACT The associations that may be discovered by map comparison are influenced by the nature of the map features being compared and by the criteria used for making the comparisons. The criteria of identity were used to compare the looks and patterns of choropleth maps. Only linear and positive correlations were revealed by the comparison of map looks, whereas the comparison of map patterns can reveal many associations, including curvilinear associations, but pattern comparison does not reveal associations which are not strictly bijective.
Parental guidance as children learn to use cultural tools

Abstract This study examines how social interaction with more experienced partners may help children learn about cultural tools that aid thinking. Thirty-two children between the ages of 4 and 7 years and their mothers were observed as they constructed a toy made up of multiple pieces using a pictorial, step-by-step plan of construction. Before and after the interaction, children participated in a similar activity on their own. Results indicate that with increasing age, children referred to the plan more often, and these references were both anticipatory and confirmatory. Working with mother was related to greater anticipatory use of plans during the posttest for younger but not older children. Results are discussed in relation to how the social context may assist children as they learn about the meaning and use of cultural tools for representing knowledge that supports cognitive activity.
Crusader art in the twelfth century: Reflections on Christian multiculturalism in the levant

(1995). Crusader art in the twelfth century: Reflections on Christian multiculturalism in the levant. Mediterranean Historical Review: Vol. 10, No. 1-2, pp. 80-91.
AMPA‐mediated excitotoxicity in oligodendrocytes: role for Na+–K+–Cl− co‐transport and reversal of Na+/Ca2+ exchanger

We investigated the role of Na(+)-K(+)-Cl(-) co-transporter isoform 1 (NKCC1) and reversal of Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger (NCX(rev)) in glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity in oligodendrocytes obtained from rat spinal cords (postnatal day 6-8). An immunocytochemical characterization showed that these cultures express NKCC1 and Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger isoforms 1, 2, and 3 (NCX1, NCX2, NCX3). Exposing the cultures to alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) plus cyclothiazide (CTZ) led to a transient rise in intracellular (), which was followed by a sustained overload, NKCC1 phosphorylation, and a NKCC1-mediated Na(+) influx. In the presence of a specific AMPA receptor inhibitor 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2, 3-dione (CNQX), the AMPA/CTZ failed to elicit any changes in . The AMPA/CTZ-induced sustained rise led to mitochondrial Ca(2+) accumulation, release of cytochrome c from mitochondria, and cell death. The AMPA/CTZ-elicited increase, mitochondrial damage, and cell death were significantly reduced by inhibiting NKCC1 or NCX(rev). These data suggest that in cultured oligodendrocytes, activation of AMPA receptors leads to NKCC1 phosphorylation that enhances NKCC1-mediated Na(+) influx. The latter triggers NCX(rev) and NCX(rev)-mediated overload and compromises mitochondrial function and cellular viability.
Effects of specific nutrients on periodontal disease onset, progression and treatment.

Objectives: The aim of this paper is to review the available literature pertaining to the effects of specific nutritional elements (e.g. vitamin B-complex, vitamin C and dietary calcium) on general wound healing, periodontal disease status and response to periodontal therapy. Methods: Critical appraisal of various studies that have evaluated the effects of calcium, ascorbic acid and vitamin B-complex in wound healing and periodontal treatment. Results: Periodontal disease onset, progression and response to therapeutic interventions have been shown to be influenced by several systemic, local and environmental modifying factors. Nutritional supplementation has been suggested as a possible influencing factor on periodontal status and wound healing. Several studies have reported various degrees of association between nutritional elements/supplements and periodontal status, and others have reported possible positive influences of nutritional supplementation on periodontal therapeutic outcomes. Future research needs to more fully explore the presence and strength of association between nutrition and periodontal health. Conclusions: Data collected from the literature suggests that nutrient supplementation causes minimal or no side effects. However, the efficacy of prophylactic nutrient supplementation for the prevention of the onset and progression of periodontal disease, or for the enhancement of periodontal wound healing, remains to be determined.
Application of sieve-tray air strippers to the treatment of surfactant-containing wastewaters

Using sieve-tray air stripping as a means of removing contaminants from surfactant solutions was studied to determine if tray air stripping can be applied successfully to treating surfactant-containing wastewaters and, if so, to develop a quantitative approach for designing tray air-stripping systems for treating surfactant-containing wastewaters. High-concentration surfactant solutions were prepared and contaminated with five different volatile organic compounds. Removal of the organic compounds was evaluated using a commercial sieve-tray air stripper. Overall, the air stripper was able to efficiently remove the contaminants from solution, and correction of Henry's Law constants for micellar solubilization-induced volatility reduction allowed tray air-stripper design equations to quantitatively predict air-stripper removal for all contaminants. Foaming within the air stripper could be controlled with low concentrations of a silicone-polymer antifoaming agent. Although adding antifoaming agents may be undesirable for some applications, other applications can benefit from the operational and performance advantages of sieve-tray air strippers. Issues related to air-stripper design for low-volatility compounds are also discussed.
Culture and Tendencies to Draw Objects in Internal Visual Perspective

Samples from nine countries (ns = 100) representing three cultures: Eastern (Japan, China, and India), European (France, Norway, and Germany), and Western (United States, Canada, and the Virgin Islands) were compared on their ability to visualize objects from an unusual (internal) visual perspective on Activity 3 (circles) of the Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking (1974, 1975, 1977), Form B. Inter-cultural as well as intra-cultural differences were found, and Eastern cultures demonstrated a significantly greater frequency of internal visualizations than did European and Western cultures, when a streamlined scoring procedure was used.
Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation of Premature Ventricular Complexes in Patients without Structural Heart Disease

Objectives: The ablation of Premature Ventricular Complexes (PVCs) is still in controversy. We investigated the efficiency and the safety of Radiofrequency (RF) ablation for PVCs in patients (pts) without structural heart disease. Methods: 174 pts without structural heart disease have frequent symptomatic PVCs that are drug resistant who underwent RF ablation in Vietnam National Heart Institute from 5/2007 to 5/2010. We had a full assess with Holter mornitor after 3 months of ablation procedure. Results: 174 pts (56 Male/118 Female) were performed RF ablation with 156 pts (89.9%) of an ectopic focus, 17 pts (9.9%) of 2 ectopic focuses and 1 patient (1.2%) of 3 ectopic focuses and 155 pts (89.0%) of the ectopic focus from right ventricular, 21 pts (11.0%) of the ectopic focus from left ventricular and 141 pts (81.0%) of the ectopic focus from RVOT. Successful rate of ablation is 88.5%, in which 23.3% have recurrent PVCs after 3 months in Holter mornitor. We met an patient with pericardial effusion who were done pericardiocentesis and an patients with the third-degree AV block and no mortality. Conclusions: Our investigator suggests that RF ablation for PVCs is efficiency and safety.
Condensation with interfacial temperature drop

Using the boundary layer equations of momentum and energy, an asymptotic series has been developed to determine the velocity and temperature fields in a stationary metal vapor condensing over a vertical surface, with the film in laminar flow. Interfacial temperature drop has been taken into account, by using an approximate form of the developed byschrage to predict the condensate metal surface temperature. With two terms taken from the asymptotic series development, it is shown that the resulting values of heat transfer coefficients and average Nusselt numbers fall in the same range as the experimentally observed values for mercury vapor. These calculations have been carried out assuming a condensation coefficient of unity. The Nusselt number is seen to depend parametrically on both the saturation pressure and the length of the condensing surface. The calculated mass condensation rate is lower than that of the theory neglecting interfacial temperature drop. The results are all applicable for sufficiently long plates when the pressure is not too low. For very short plates and pressures below about 25 mm of mercury, more terms in the asymptotic expansion must be considered.
The Thiazide-sensitive NaCl Cotransporter Is Targeted for Chaperone-dependent Endoplasmic Reticulum-associated Degradation

The thiazide-sensitive NaCl cotransporter (NCC, SLC12A3) mediates salt reabsorption in the distal nephron of the kidney and is the target of thiazide diuretics, which are commonly prescribed to treat hypertension. Mutations in NCC also give rise to Gitelman syndrome, a hereditary salt-wasting disorder thought in most cases to arise from impaired NCC biogenesis through enhanced endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation (ERAD). Because the machinery that mediates NCC quality control is completely undefined, we employed yeast as a model heterologous expression system to identify factors involved in NCC degradation. We confirmed that NCC was a bona fide ERAD substrate in yeast, as the majority of NCC polypeptide was integrated into ER membranes, and its turnover rate was sensitive to proteasome inhibition. NCC degradation was primarily dependent on the ER membrane-associated E3 ubiquitin ligase Hrd1. Whereas several ER luminal chaperones were dispensable for NCC ERAD, NCC ubiquitination and degradation required the activity of Ssa1, a cytoplasmic Hsp70 chaperone. Compatible findings were observed when NCC was expressed in mammalian kidney cells, as the cotransporter was polyubiquitinated and degraded by the proteasome, and mammalian cytoplasmic Hsp70 (Hsp72) coexpression stimulated the degradation of newly synthesized NCC. Hsp70 also preferentially associated with the ER-localized NCC glycosylated species, indicating that cytoplasmic Hsp70 plays a critical role in selecting immature forms of NCC for ERAD. Together, these results provide the first survey of components involved in the ERAD of a mammalian SLC12 cation chloride cotransporter and provide a framework for future studies on NCC ER quality control.
Performance of Late-Spring Forced Asparagus Rotated with Normal Spring Harvest Under Temperate Climate Conditions

Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) is typically harvested for up to 6 weeks in spring, but cultural techniques can be used to extend the harvest. To force spear production beyond the normal harvest season, asparagus plants are allowed to grow undisturbed in spring and then are mowed later in the season, resulting in a flush of harvestable spears. Repetitive off-season forcing of asparagus does not appear to be a viable production practice in the temperate climate conditions of the Midwestern United States because the growing season is not long enough to permit adequate replenishment of energy reserves after even a brief forced harvest. An experiment was conducted in southwest Missouri to determine whether a system of rotating late-spring forced asparagus harvests with typical spring harvests would allow plants to recover sufficient vigor to establish a sustainable extended asparagus harvest regimen in the region. ‘Jersey Knight’ asparagus was planted in 1999 and harvested in eight different 3-year rotat...
Stark raving fat: Celebrity, cellulite, and the sliding scale of sanity:

Britney Spears offers a particular case study that makes visible a larger cultural mandate: a woman’s slender body correlates with both her moral fiber and her mental well-being. Thus, thin-ness is read as a signifier of both impulse control and sanity. These metaphorical ties reinforce the pathology attached to the fat body, indicating that the thin body is seemingly one step closer to a Western ideal of empowered rational individualism, whereas the fat (or in Spears’s case, slightly chubby) body is made all the more abject through a madness brought on by a bodily disorder that culminates in an alienation from the self. Critical to this dialectic around (Spears’s) selfhood, cellulite, and sanity is the matter of mediated appearance, since, as a celebrity, Spears’s ‘health’ is tied to images of wellness as articulated through the fit and flab-free body. Neither wellness nor selfhood can exist, the logic indicates, in a state of crisis where one does not photograph ‘well’. Acknowledging the biases that are...
A Social Exchange Model of Employee Reactions to Electronic Performance Monitoring

The primary goal of this study was to develop and test a social exchange model of employee reactions to electronic performance monitoring (EPM) to help managers use EPM more effectively. This study proposed that certain EPM practices are related to perceptions of interpersonal and informational justice, which in turn build trust in the manager, along with other important attitudes and outcomes. In a sample of 257 call center representatives, the purpose for using EPM, development versus control, was associated with interpersonal justice perceptions, but EPM-based feedback characteristics, whether the feedback was timely, specific, and constructive, were not. Furthermore, the presence of an explanation for EPM was positively related to perceptions of informational justice. Moreover, interpersonal and informational justice perceptions were positively related to trust in the manager, which in turn was positively related to job performance and job satisfaction.
Valuing the adult learner in e‐learning: part one – a conceptual model for corporate settings

Purpose – To illustrate how the interdependence among four championing factors, five antecedents, and four moderators affect companies' efforts in valuing the adult learner in e‐learning.Design/methodology/approach – A literature review was conducted to identify the championing factors, antecedents, and moderators that can assist teams in designing e‐learning that values the adult learner. A conceptual model was designed based on the identified factors. The paper provides a description of each factor and provides insight on how the championing factors, antecedents, and moderators are interdependent in valuing the adult learner.Findings – Engagement, learning, and transfer are major outcomes that can be achieved via e‐learning if desirable championing factors, antecedents, and moderators are adhered. Championing factors include leadership, learning culture, technology infrastructure, and finance. Influencing antecedents include needs assessment, learning analysis, work setting analysis, work analysis, cont...
Suicide, cancer, and other causes of death among California veterinarians, 1960-1992

Previous studies reporting on mortality patterns in veterinarians have been restricted to deaths among white male veterinarians. In an effort to examine the mortality of male and female veterinarians of all races, we conducted a standardized proportionate mortality ratio (SPMR) analysis of 450 California veterinarians who died between January 1960 and December 1992. In comparison to State of California general population statistics, white male veterinarians had significantly elevated mortality from malignant melanoma of the skin (SPMR 3.47, 95% CI 1.74, 6.94), cancer of the large intestine (SPMR 1.74, 95% CI 1.04, 2.09), rheumatic heart disease (SPMR 3.50, 95% CI 1.90, 6.43), and suicide (SPMR 2.50, 95% CI 1.84, 3.38). White female veterinarians had significantly elevated mortality from suicide (SPMR 5.89, 95% CI 3.02, 11.48). We also examined veterinary mortality for different lengths of time in the profession. Significantly elevated SPMRs were noted for suicide in veterinarians in the profession for less than 30 years; deaths due to malignant melanoma of the skin and rheumatic heart disease in veterinarians in the profession 20 years or more; and cancer of the large intestine in veterinarians in the profession 30 years or more. Because of significant findings in mortality from suicide among veterinarians of both sexes, it was recommended that future studies and efforts toward suicide prevention include both male and female veterinarians.
Automatic selection of image features for visual servoing of a robot manipulator

The authors investigate the selection of image features to be used to control visually the position and orientation (pose) of the end-effector of an eye-in-hand robot relative to a workpiece. A resolved-motion-rate control scheme is used to update the robot's pose on the basis of the position of three features in the camera's image. The selection of these three features depends on the condition and sensitivity of the differential relationship between the image features and the control parameters. Both computer simulations and laboratory experiments on a PUMA robot arm were conducted to verify the performance of the feature selection criteria. Experimentally, the PUMA robot arm, with a CCD (charged-coupled device) camera mounted on its end effector, was able to track a randomly moving carburetor gasket with a visual feedback cycle time of 70 ms. >
Outliers and Improper Solutions A Confirmatory Factor Analysis Example

A common occurrence in structural equation models are “improper solutions.” Estimates of negative variances of measurement errors, negative variances of equation errors, or correlations between latent variables that are greater than one are instances of improper solutions. Recent work has begun to examine the causes and cures for these problems but the role of outliers in generating improper solutions has been overlooked. The purposes of this article are threefold: (1) to explain how outliers can lead to improper solutions, (2) to use a confirmatory factor analysis example to demonstrate this, and (3) to encourage researchers to check for this possibility.