cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of L'Glutamine Supplementation on Impaired Glucose Regulation During Intravenous Lipid Administration

In contrast to l-glutamine, lipid emulsions are routinely administered to patients receving nutritional support. The provision of fat during intravenous feeding is essential, but the potentially toxic byproducts of fatty acid oxidation may have adverse metabolic consequences. In the present study, we have examined the effect of l-glutamine, an inhibitor of fatty acid oxidation, on the development of defective blood glucose regulation caused by a 48-hour infusion of 10% intralipid in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (200–290g) were anesthetized with sodium pentobarbital, the right femoral vein cannulated, and baseline blood samples were taken. Each rat was placed in a metabolic cage with access to water, in the presence or absence of rodent chow. Two hours after waking, the rats were infused with 10% intralipid with either saline (control), 2% l-glutamine, or 2% l-alanine. After 48 hours, all animals were sacrificed and blood samples were again obtained. The mean ± SEM plasma glucose levels before and after lipid infusion at the rate of 1 mL/hr in control rats fed ad libitum, were 125 ± 13 and 170 ± 5 mg/dL (p < 0.01, n = 7). Similarly, plasma free fatty acids (FFA) in these animals rose from 0.74 ± 0.11 to 1.34 ± 0.32 mmol/L (p < 0.05). Plasma insulin levels also increased from 337 ± 44 to 1278 ± 88 pg/mL (p < 0.01). Reduction of intralipid dose infusion did not prevent insulin resistance characterized by hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia. However, addition of l-glutamine to the high-dose lipid infusion with chow feeding prevented changes in plasma glucose, insulin levels, and FFA but not triglyceride levels. Also, glutamine but not alanine supplementation in intralipid infused rats without chow feeding prevented changes in plasma glucose, insulin, and malondialdehyde levels. In conclusion, these data show that glutamine supplementation during intravenous lipid administration in rats prevents the development of impaired glucose regulation associated with hyperlipidemia.
Gender differences in self-reported constipation characteristics, symptoms, and bowel and dietary habits among patients attending a specialty clinic for constipation

Abstract Objectives: This study assessed gender differences in the frequency of various characteristics of constipation, constipation-specific symptoms, and bowel and dietary habits, as well as the effects of independent but associated risk factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study of patients aged ≥18 years with a primary diagnosis of constipation (ie, constipation, slow-transit constipation, outlet dysfunction constipation) was conducted at a tertiary referral center; patients were excluded if they had a primary diagnosis of fecal incontinence. Patients completed both a clinical questionnaire to obtain information on demographic characteristics and medical history and an unvalidated self-report questionnaire relating to the characteristics and symptoms of constipation as well as various bowel and dietary habits. Likert scales were used to assess 4 characteristics of constipation (frequency of constipation, duration of constipation symptoms of ≥1 month, bowel movement frequency, stool consistency) and the frequency of occurrence of 6 constipation symptoms (abdominal pain, abdominal bloating, incomplete evacuation, unsuccessful attempts at evacuation, pain with evacuation, straining with evacuation). The bowel habits that were evaluated included time spent at each evacuation; frequency of needing to change position to evacuate; use of anal digitation to evacuate; and the use of laxatives, enemas, stool softeners, foods, drinks, or other aids. The dietary habits that were evaluated included use of dietary fiber, use of fiber supplements, and water intake. Results: Of the 518 patients, the majority were female (79.0%), white (76.3%), and employed (62.0%), with a mean (SD) age of 52.4 (16.5) years (range, 18.6–91.5 years). After controlling for a number of related conditions, women were more likely than men to have infrequent bowel movements (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.97; 95% CI, 1.67–5.28), abnormal stool consistency (ie, hard or pelletlike stools) (AOR = 3.08; 95% CI, 1.80–5.28), and a longer duration of constipation symptoms (AOR = 2.00; 95% CI, 1.05–3.82). In addition, women were more likely to report an increased frequency of occurrence of abdominal pain (AOR = 2.22; 95% CI, 1.22–4.05), bloating (AOR = 2.65; 95% CI, 1.50–4.70), unsuccessful attempts at evacuation (AOR = 1.74; 95% CI, 1.01–3.00), and the use of anal digitation to evacuate stool (AOR = 3.37; 95% CI, 1.15–9.90). Conclusions: The women in this specialty-based clinic study experienced a number of constipation symptoms and abnormal bowel habits more frequently than did men. These findings warrant replication in both population- and specialty clinic-based samples. In addition, the physiologic mechanisms that underlie these gender differences warrant investigation.
Immunosuppression in uveitis

The treatment of ocular inflammatory disease continues to be a major challenge as the clinician tries to balance the risks and the benefits of immunosuppressive therapy. Currently, corticosteroids, antimetabolites, and calcineurin inhibitors are the most commonly used agents. Biologically active agents including monoclonal antibodies, however, provide a promising new form of treatment that can target the immune system more specifically and more safely. Long-term studies are needed to determine the role of biologic agents in the treatment of uveitis.
LMP-1, A LIM-Domain Protein, Mediates BMP-6 Effects on Bone Formation

Glucocorticoids can promote osteoblast differentiation from fetal calvarial cells and bone marrow stromal cells. We recently reported that glucocorticoid specifically induced bone morphogenetic protein-6 (BMP-6), a glycoprotein signaling molecule that is a multifunctional regulator of vertebrate development. In the present study, we used fetal rat secondary calvarial cultures to determine genes induced during early osteoblast differentiation as initiated by glucocorticoid treatment. Glucocorticoid, and subsequently BMP-6, was found to induce a novel rat intracellular protein, LIM mineralization protein-1 (LMP-1), that in turn resulted in synthesis of one or more soluble factors that could induce de novo bone formation. Blocking expression of LMP-1 using antisense oligonucleotide prevented osteoblast differentiation in vitro. Overexpression of LMP-1 using a mammalian expression vector was sufficient to initiate de novo bone nodule formation in vitro and in sc implants in vivo. These data demonstrate that L...
Calcium-induced conformational changes in C-terminal tail of polycystin-2 are necessary for channel gating.

Polycystin-2 (PC2) is a Ca(2+)-permeable transient receptor potential channel activated and regulated by changes in cytoplasmic Ca(2+). PC2 mutations are responsible for ∼15% of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. Although the C-terminal cytoplasmic tail of PC2 has been shown to contain a Ca(2+)-binding EF-hand domain, the molecular basis of PC2 channel gating by Ca(2+) remains unknown. We propose that the PC2 EF-hand is a Ca(2+) sensor required for channel gating. Consistent with this, Ca(2+) binding causes a dramatic decrease in the radius of gyration (R(g)) of the PC2 EF-hand by small angle x-ray scattering and significant conformational changes by NMR. Furthermore, increasing Ca(2+) concentrations cause the C-terminal cytoplasmic tail to transition from a mixture of extended oligomers to a single compact dimer by analytical ultracentrifugation, coupled with a >30 A decrease in maximum interatomic distance (D(max)) by small angle x-ray scattering. Mutant PC2 channels unable to bind Ca(2+) via the EF-hand are inactive in single-channel planar lipid bilayers and inhibit Ca(2+) release from ER stores upon overexpression in cells, suggesting dominant negative properties. Our results support a model where PC2 channels are gated by discrete conformational changes in the C-terminal cytoplasmic tail in response to changes in cytoplasmic Ca(2+) levels. These properties of PC2 are lost in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease, emphasizing the importance of PC2 to kidney cell function. We speculate that PC2 and the Ca(2+)-dependent transient receptor potential channels in general are regulated by similar conformational changes in their cytoplasmic domains that are propagated to the channel pore.
Analytical and preparative separation of bark beetle pheromones by high-performance liquid chromatography

Abstract The analytical scale optical resolution of synthetic racemic ipsdienol, an aggregation pheromone of bark beetles, Ips species, with an optically active column is described. Both forms of (±)-ipsdienol benzoate are completely separated by an opticaly active poly(triphenylmethyl methacrylate) column. The use of a chiral reagent to form diastereomers for a preparative scale separation is also described. Both racemic ipsdienol and ipsenol are converted through the hydroxy groups into their diastereomers by treatment with optically pure ( R )-(+)-α-methoxy-α,-(trifluoromethyl)phenylacetic acid. The diastercomeric derivatives are then resolved by normal-phase preparative high-performance liquid chromatography in a recycle mode.
Text-corporeality and the Double Rend of the Page: The Specter of the Manuscript in Rilke's Die Aufzeichnungen des Malte Laurids Brigge

This article explores the processes by which descriptions of bodily fragmentation and flesh in Rilke’s Die Aufzeichnungen des Malte Laurids Brigge emerge out of the material practices of writing. Traces of this process remain in the largest surviving portion of the manuscript, the so-called “Berner Taschenbuch,” a facsimile of which was released in 2012. I argue that the messy wounds of ink and paper profoundly shaped the thematics and form of the novel and thereby became incorporated into the figures and imagery of the printed work, which, in turn, forever bears the spectral presence of these original materialities. In the first section, various passages are analyzed alongside their manuscript pages to explicate the productive process by which ink and paper become figured in the content of the novel itself. The second section turns to the work of Gilles Deleuze and Georges Didi-Huberman to suggest that the materiality and visuality of the manuscript produce a rend in the skin of the printed text, allowing the materialities of writing to surge through the fissures in its seemingly smooth surface. The materialities of writing and of the manuscript thereby invade the reader’s bodily experience during reading, allowing him to imagine the decimated flesh of a virtual manuscript lying beneath the mask of the printed text and haunting it like a specter. (JH)
Clinical-Medical Issues for the Health Professional Who is Also a Leukemic

The health professional is in a unique but often awkward role when he falls victim to life-threatening illness and becomes a patient. Used to the role of caretaker, he experiences an abrupt reversal of role with consequent sequelae involving depression, loss of self-esteem, and the continual operation of defenses designed to protect himself in a period of acute distress. The author uses his own immediate experience as the starting point for a discussion of these and allied psychological issues concerning patient care in general.
The Impact of Abandoned Properties on Nearby Property Values

Previous research has shown that housing abandonment contributes to neighborhood decline by depressing nearby property values. However, most past research estimated the impact of abandonment through cross-sectional analysis without controlling for nearby foreclosures or local housing market trends. Therefore, it remains unclear whether abandoned properties reduce nearby property values or whether abandonment is more common in areas with already lower-valued properties. Prior research also has not explored how the duration of abandonment influences nearby property values. Therefore, to extend the current level of understanding of the impact of abandonment, this research examines the impact of abandoned properties on nearby property values in Baltimore, Maryland, from 1991 to 2010 using longitudinal data sets while simultaneously controlling for both nearby foreclosures and local housing market trends. This research finds that as properties are abandoned for longer periods of time, the impact on nearby prop...
Arctic ice, george clooney, lipstick on a pig, and insomniac fruit flies: combining kd and m&s for predictive analysis

Both knowledge discovery (KD) and modeling and simulation (MS these features are then employed for KD based predictive analysis. This approach is illustrated through a case study involving predictions of the collective human dynamics associated with movie attendance, political campaigns, epidemics, and protests. This integration of M&S and KD reveals that system attributes commonly believed to be predictive for social dynamics are frequently not, and that subtle features of social network dynamics often have considerable predictive power. The second approach to combining KD and M&S is to use M&S tools to develop mathematical models for the system of interest and then apply KD methods to the models to form predictions without running simulations. This methodology is illustrated through a case study involving the detection of vulnerabilities, and prediction of their consequences, in complex biological and technological networks (e.g., circadian rhythm gene networks, electric power grids). An important benefit of this approach is the possibility to obtain provably-correct characterizations of network dynamics, as this permits rigorous, comprehensive predictions of network behavior.
The effects of thermomechanical history and strain rate on antiplasticization of PVC

Abstract Antiplasticization is mechanically characterized by an increase in the polymer stiffness and/or yield strength upon the incorporation of a small amount of a low-molecular weight diluent. It is attributed to hindrance of the local β-relaxation motions of the polymer. Here, we have studied the effects of thermal treatment, plastic deformation, and strain rate on the antiplasticization of the yield stress of a 95 wt% poly(vinyl chloride)/5 wt% dioctyl phthalate (PVC/5 wt% DOP) compound. Two thermal treatments were applied to the materials – cooling to room temperature from above Tg by a quench or by a slow oven-cool anneal. When compressed at low to moderate strain rates, antiplasticization was observed in the annealed (physically aged) PVC/5 wt% DOP but not in the quenched (unaged) PVC/5 wt% DOP. Load–unload–reload compression cycles revealed that antiplasticization can be erased by plastic strain; the anomalously high yield stress of PVC/5 wt% DOP observed in the first load cycle softens to a value lower than that of the neat PVC in subsequent cycles. The results indicate that disordered, high free volume microstructural states, obtained either from thermal quenching or from plastic straining, liberate the beta motions of the PVC molecule which, in turn, erase antiplasticization of the yield stress. Earlier work on the rate-dependence of yield has demonstrated that beta motions must be stress-activated in order to yield neat PVC when deformed at high strain rates (>100/s). Hence, we have characterized the rate-dependence of the antiplasticization of the yield stress by testing the annealed materials in uniaxial compression over a wide range of strain rates (10−4/s–3000/s). Antiplasticization was observed in PVC/5 wt% DOP in the low strain rate regime where beta motions are free in neat PVC but hindered in PVC/5 wt% DOP; however, the antiplasticization (elevation of yield stress) gradually diminished with increasing strain rate.
On the diffusion of metabolic intermediates

A simple model of diffusible metabolic intermediates, produced in a spherical cell, is postulated. The rate of production of the intermediate is taken to be a linear function of its internal concentration. The intermediate is produced by the degradation of some precursor substance at a rate which is assumed to decrease with increasing internal concentration. Assuming the medium in which the cell is enclosed to be infinite in extent, and the external concentration of the intermediate constant, the time dependent and steady-state solutions of the diffusion problem involved are obtained. It is shown that production of the intermediate will not cease, for any value ofr≤r0, wherer0 is the radius of the cell. Possible application of this approach to the study of the occurrence of the lag phase in bacterial growth processes is indicated.
A low lying defect mode in CaF2: Y3+

Abstract An absorption line in CaF 2 :Y 3+ at 9.4 cm -1 has been identified by hydrostatic pressure measurements as a yttrium resonant mode.
Insights into blue copper proteins using spectroscopic methods

Abstract By controlling the structure of the binding site, a protein can profoundly influence the properties of a metal center including its chemical potential, its kinetic reactivity and its binding constant.For example, it is evident from small molecule studies that electron transfer is much more facile in copper systems when minimal structural reorganization is required. To fill in some of the gaps in our knowledge about structural aspects of blue copper proteins, as summarized below, we have carried out a variety of physical studies on the proteins themselves as well as appropriate derivatives and relevant small molecules. The nickel(II) derivative of azurin, Ni(II)Az, has been prepared and shown to contain two unpaired electrons which virtually rules out the possibility of a planar nickel site. This is despite the pronounced tendency of nickel(II) to prefer planar binding of an N 2 S 2 donor set involving thiolate sulfurs [1]. The paramagnetism and the fact that d-d bands are found in the near infrared argue for a pseudotetrahedral binding geometry and suggest that the metal binding site of azurin is rather rigidly defined by the peptide moiety. Further structural information has been obtained from NMR studies. Due to the rapid electron spin relaxation associated with tetrahedral nickel(II), we have been able to observed isotropically shifted resonances in the 1 H NMR spectrum which can be attributed to protons of the ligand moieties [2]. These resonances shift discontinuously with pH in parallel with the C2 hydrogen of histidine-35, providing direct evidence that this protonation is coupled to a conformational change. 113 Cd NMR studies indicate there is little difference between the binding sites of stellacyanin and azurin [3] even though stellacyanin lacks methionine which is one of the copper ligands of azurin. The NMR results are consistent with the suggestion that a closely related donor type, probably cystine sulfur, replaces methionine sulfur in the case of stellacyanin [4]. Finally metal replacements studies have also proved useful in studied of tree laccase. By substituting mercury(II) for copper(II) in the type 1 site we have for the first time been able to isolate the EPR spectrum of type 2 copper, allowing observation of ligand hyperfine splitting in the perpendicular region [5].
Stereometric Analysis Of Static Equilibrium In CNS Disorders

A primary aim in the physical rehabilitation of individuals with severe head or spinal injuries resulting in hemiparesis, tetraparesis or paraparesis, is the restoration of the functional motor abilities controlling involved muscle groups. The regaining of trunk postural stability provides a valuable antecedent in the recovery of use of the arms and legs. Accurate objective infor-mation must be provided to the therapist for assessment of treatment regimes. At present, few objective practical methods are available to furnish this evaluative information. Therefore the purpose of this study was to investigate the use of a biostereometric range of motion sensor for recording and quantifying trunk static equilibrium in individuals ungergoing therapy for head trauma. The sensor located the relative position of the C-7 vertebrae of the patient in space using continual monitoring of spherical coordinates. Results of the test protocol included : plots of the movement of the trunk excursions, determination of the maximum area of excursion and a trunk sway index (the relationship of the maximum area, the total excursion distance and a time factor). Further results demonstrated that the biostereometric sensor yielded quantitative documentation of improvement in a patient undergoing therapy.© (1980) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Open problems in network-aware data management in exa-scale computing and terabit networking era

Accessing and managing large amounts of data is a great challenge in collaborative computing environments where resources and users are geographically distributed. Recent advances in network technology led to next-generation high-performance networks, allowing high-bandwidth connectivity. Efficient use of the network infrastructure is necessary in order to address the increasing data and compute requirements of large-scale applications. We discuss several open problems, evaluate emerging trends, and articulate our perspectives in network-aware data management.
On Methods of Handling Ties in the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test

Abstract Formulas are given for asymptotic efficiency of the Wilcoxon signed-rank test under several alternative ways of handling ties. Two methods of handling ties at zero, one suggested by Wilcoxon and the other by Pratt, are compared on the basis of their asymptotic efficiencies. Each method is shown to be better than the other in some situations. Two examples consider the discrete uniform distribution and the binomial distribution.
Annotated bibliography on protective shelters for archaeological sites

AbstractThe literature dealing with protective shelters for archaeological sites is meagre in relation to the number of shelters actually built or proposed, but nevertheless provides a critical source of information for practitioners and decision-makers about the range and types of shelters, their rationale and, infrequently, their performance. This annotated bibliography is a comprehensive overview of the existing literature on protective shelters (limited to English, French, German, Italian, Spanish and Portuguese) through the year 2000.
Some variants of the Todd low-complexity algorithm

Todd (Ref. 1) describes an interior-point algorithm for linear programming that is almost as simple as the affine-scaling method and yet achieves the currently best complexity of\(O\left( {\sqrt n t} \right)\) iterations to attain precisiont based on the primal-only potential function ψ(x). In this paper, we propose some variants of the Todd algorithm by considering two local models: the ψ-model, trying to reduce the potential function ψ(x) as much as possible; and thec-model, trying to reduce the objective functioncTx as much as possible, with polynomiality retained. Some preliminary numerical results are presented to illustrate the behavior of these algorithms.
Cloning of peptidase genes from Lactobacillus helveticus CNRZ 32

Lactic acid bacteria express a complex proteolytic enzyme system that is capable of hydrolyzing casein to amino acids. We have begun to examine the number and specificity of exopeptidases from Lactobacillus helveticus CNRZ 32. A genomic library of L. helveticus CNRZ 32 DNA fragments from a Sau3A partial digestion was constructed in Escherichia coli DH5α utilizing pJDC9. This library was screened for the presence of aminopeptidase, X-prolyl dipeptidyl aminopeptidase (X-PDAP), and dipeptidase activities by two methods. The first screening identified an aminopeptidase II (APII) and X-PDAP. The X-PDAP was determined to be present on four independent DNA inserts ranging in size from 3.5 to 7.7 kilobase pairs (kbp). EcoRI/EcoRV digests of these plasmids suggested that all inserts had 1.0 and 1.8 kbp fragments in common. The gene for APII was determined to be present on three independent DNA inserts ranging in size from 8.2 to 11.3 kbp. EcoRI digestion of these plasmids indicated that 1.2 and 1.8 kbp fragments were in common. The second screening identified an additional aminopeptidase (API), a di/tripeptidase (DTP) with prolinase activity, a broad-specificity dipeptidase (DPI), and a narrow-specificity dipeptidase (DPII). The insert size of clones expressing API, DTP, DPI, DPII were 4.8, 9.5, 5.8, and 6.3 kbp, respectively. Histochemical staining of native polyacrylamide gels from recombinant E. coli cultures demonstrated that the cloned peptidase co-migrated with native L. helveticus CNRZ 32 enzymes.
Solid-state chemistry of organic polyvalent iodine compounds. I. The crystal structures of two polymorphs of 1-(2′-iodobenzoyloxy)-1,2-benziodoxolin-3-one

Abstract Solid-state reactions involving organic polyvalent iodine compounds frequently result in the formation of preferentially oriented single-crystal product phases (topotaxy). Geometrical comparisons of the mutually oriented reactant and product crystal structures may define the extent of molecular motions, and suggest geometrical mechanisms of transformation. The crystal structures of two monoclinic polymorphs (α and β) of 1-(2′-iodobenzoyloxy)-1,2-benziodoxolin-3-one are reported in this first in a series of papers describing the crystallography of the transformations. The α crystal structure is formed directly in the three-dimensionally ordered topotactic transformation of the isomeric bis-(orthoiodobenzoyl) peroxide crystal structure, and further is hydrolytically transformed to the single crystal phase of 2-iodobenzoic acid. The asymmetric unit of the acicular α form ( a = 4.21, b = 30.86, c = 22.52 A, β = 93.3°, Cc , Z = 8) consists of two independent molecules which are mutually associated through two strong IO inter molecular coordination bonds across a pseudo inversion center. In both molecules, the monovalent 2′-iodo substituent and the carbonyl oxygen atom of the adjacent carboxyl group are oriented in an unusual transoid relationship as a consequence of the mutual coordination bonds. By contrast, the configuration of these atoms is cisoid in the prismatic β crystal structure ( a = 8.03, b = 12.58, c = 13.74 A, β = 92.6°, P2 1 c , Z = 4 ), which moreover does not contain the common IO coordination bonds. However, closely analogous coordination bonds are indicated between the monovalent and trivalent iodine atoms in the β form. A sluggish polymorphic transformation (single crystal → polycrystal) of the α structure to the β structure occurs at ∼110°C.
Metal surface investigation by scanning probe microscopy

AbstractMetallic materials are widely used in the fabrication of devices and structures because of their wide range of useful physical properties, such as conductivity and formability. As the need for the fabrication of microscopic structures increases, more importance is being attached to the investigation of metal surfaces on the submicro-and nanometre scale. Scanning probe micros copy (SPM) has become an increasingly useful tool for the investigation of metallic structures owing to its ability to perform three-dimensional measurements on the nanometre scale as well as to investigate the material properties. As a result of its versatility, there are a large number of ways in which SPM can be applied to the study of metallic surfaces. This paper presents an overview of some of the more common SPM techniques used for investigations of metal surfaces.
Activation of protein kinase in the guinea pig fundic gastric mucosa by histamine.

Abstract The effect of histamine, 1,4-methylhistamine and ethanol on cyclic AMP levels and protein kinase activation was measured in tissue strips from the fundic region of guinea pig gastric mucosa. Histamine induced a significant elevation of tissue cyclic AMP levels and also in situ activation of the protein kinase. 1,4-methylhistamine, an inactive analog of histamine, and ethanol had no effect on these two parameters. Results suggest that protein kinase activation is involved in the cyclic AMP-mediated action of histamine on the gastric fundic mucosa.
How shortening a channel may lower its conductance. The case of des-Val7-DVal8-gramicidin A

A shortened analog of gramicidin A has been shown by Urry et al. (Biochim. Biophys. Acta 775, 115-119) to have lower conductance than native gramicidin A. They argue this suggests that the major current carrier is the doubly occupied channel. A different perspective is presented here. Channel formation does not alter bilayer width. In a shortened channel an ion approaching the binding site moves further toward the center of the lipid-pore system. The electrostatic contribution to the energy barrier near the constriction mouth is greater for the shorter channel. As long as entry to the channel is rate limiting singly occupied short channels should exhibit lower conductance. The data are not inconsistent with singly occupied channels being the major current carriers. Experiments on other gramicidin analogs are suggested to more clearly distinguish between singly and doubly occupied channels as the dominant conducting species.
Foot center of pressure and medial knee osteoarthritis

Background: We sought to determine whether symptomatic medial knee osteoarthritis is associated with aberrant loading across the foot during gait. Methods: Twenty-five individuals with medial knee osteoarthritis were compared with 25 controls. Knee radiographs and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index questionnaires were obtained. Participants walked barefoot over pressure sensors, and the center-of-pressure trace was plotted against the axis of the foot, and a center-of-pressure index was calculated. Results: The center-of-pressure indices in the medial knee osteoarthritis group demonstrated high lateral loading compared with the central center-of-pressure pattern in controls (P < .001). There was a correlation between the severity of pain and the center-of-pressure index in patients with medial knee osteoarthritis but no correlation between center of pressure and radiographic severity. Conclusions: The plantar pressure patterns of patients with medial knee osteoarthritis demonstrated...
An improved technique for the simultaneous measurement of nasal and oral respiration.

Abstract A technique is described to record and measure both the nasal and oral components of respiratory airflow. The method is a modification of a previously reported technique, 1 and represents an improvement in terms of accuracy, speed, convenience, and facility in both the acquisition and analysis of a large set of data per subject. The equipment and associated computer configuration permits a temporal characterization of inspiratory and expiratory parameters of both nasal and oral airflow, nasal airway resistance computation at predetermined flow rates, and the calculation of estimates of the minimum cross-sectional area of the nasal air passage.
Ascorbate potentiates amphetamine-induced conditioned place preference and forebrain dopamine release in rats

In order to evaluate the effects of ascorbate, which is known to modulate dopamine neurotransmission, on the reinforcing effects of amphetamine, we coadministered ascorbate and amphetamine during the acquisition of conditioned place preference (CPP) in rats. Our results indicate that 100 mg/kg ascorbate potentiates the CPP induced by 0.5 mg/kg, but not 1.0 mg/kg, amphetamine. A higher dose of ascorbate (500 mg/kg) did not influence the CPP induced by either dose of amphetamine. In vitro release assays revealed that, whereas ascorbate alone (0.01-1.0 mM) did not influence striatal dopamine levels, this vitamin potentiated amphetamine-induced dopamine release in both the nucleus accumbens and neostriatum. Collectively, these results raise the possibility that ascorbate potentiates amphetamine-induced CPP by increasing the ability of this psychostimulant to release dopamine.
Pioneer factors govern super-enhancer dynamics in stem cell plasticity and lineage choice

Adult stem cells occur in niches that balance self-renewal with lineage selection and progression during tissue homeostasis. Following injury, culture or transplantation, stem cells outside their niche often display fate flexibility. Here we show that super-enhancers underlie the identity, lineage commitment and plasticity of adult stem cells in vivo. Using hair follicle as a model, we map the global chromatin domains of hair follicle stem cells and their committed progenitors in their native microenvironments. We show that super-enhancers and their dense clusters ('epicentres') of transcription factor binding sites undergo remodelling upon lineage progression. New fate is acquired by decommissioning old and establishing new super-enhancers and/or epicentres, an auto-regulatory process that abates one master regulator subset while enhancing another. We further show that when outside their niche, either in vitro or in wound-repair, hair follicle stem cells dynamically remodel super-enhancers in response to changes in their microenvironment. Intriguingly, some key super-enhancers shift epicentres, enabling their genes to remain active and maintain a transitional state in an ever-changing transcriptional landscape. Finally, we identify SOX9 as a crucial chromatin rheostat of hair follicle stem cell super-enhancers, and provide functional evidence that super-enhancers are dynamic, dense transcription-factor-binding platforms which are acutely sensitive to pioneer master regulators whose levels define not only spatial and temporal features of lineage-status but also stemness, plasticity in transitional states and differentiation.
Tracking the Predators: Evaluating the US Drone Campaign in Pakistan

This article examines the strategic wisdom of the US Predator drone campaign in Pakistan, particularly in light of the dramatic expansion in the number of strikes that has occurred under the Obama administration. First, it examines whether there is a compelling rationale for any drone strikes in Pakistan by evaluating the justification advanced by US authorities and the three main criticisms that have been leveled against the campaign. With the help of an original database of drone strikes and their effects compiled by the authors of the article, it shows that the criticisms lack merit and that some strikes may be justified in principle. Second, it turns to the reasons explaining the dramatic increase in strikes over the past 2 years. On examination, it finds that the arguments supporting the expansion of the campaign are forceful but not necessarily decisive. In the third section it considers some objections to an expanded campaign. Finally, in the closing section, it weighs these considerations against the points favoring the expansion of the drone strikes. The article ends with the conclusion that on balance it would be prudent to shift back towards a more narrowly focused campaign concentrating on al-Qaeda, the Afghan Taliban and only leaders of the Pakistani Taliban.
Nitrogen strengthening of a stable austenitic stainless steel

Abstract The low-temperature flow stress of mechanically stable austenitic stainless steels increases with increasing concentration of nitrogen in solution and with decreasing temperature. This phenomenon has been studied in a series of FeNiCrMo alloys with nitrogen contents between 0.04 and 0.36 wt% by measuring the flow stress and the thermal activation parameters for plastic flow as a function of stress, plastic strain and nitrogen concentration in stress relaxation and strain-rate change experiments. Care is taken, when analyzing the data, to distinguish between athermal and thermal effects. The significant increase of the athermal flow stress with increasing nitrogen concentration is attributed to short-range ordering of chromium and nitrogen atoms. The thermally activated component of the flow stress is also dependent on the nitrogen concentration and is thought to be due to localized, predominantly modulus interactions between lattice disturbances in the immediate vicinity of nitrogen atoms and slip dislocations. The thermally activated component is suitably described by Friedel's model of solid solution strengthening.
Existence theorems, lower bounds and algorithms for scheduling to meet two objectives

We give general results about the existence of schedules which simultaneously minimize two criteria. Our results are general in that (i) they apply to any scheduling environment and (ii) they apply to all pairs of metrics in which the first metric is one of maximum flow time, makespan, or maximum lateness and the second metric is one of average flow time, average completion time, average lateness, or number of on-time jobs. For most of the pairs of metrics we consider, we show the existence of near-optimal schedules for both metrics as well as some lower bound results. For some pairs of metrics such as (maximum flow time, average weighted flow time) and (maximum flow time, number of on-time jobs), we prove negative results on the ability to approximate both criteria within a constant factor of optimal. For many other criteria we present lower bounds that match or approach our bicriterion existence results.
A new perspective on John Rowley, virtuoso master of mechanics and hydraulic engineer

Summary Although best known as a scientific instrument maker, John Rowley extended his sphere of activity very considerably as Master of Mechanics to George I and as a hydraulic engineer at the Offices of Ordnance and Works. Re-examined and untapped sources provide fresh evidence of these aspects of his work and highlight his predilection for the arts and the virtuosity of his artefacts. The findings also have implications for studies of the instrument-making trade in the early eighteenth century.
Multitopic third generation tris(pyrazolyl)methane ligands built on alkyne structural scaffolding: first preparation of mixed tris(pyrazolyl)methane/tris(pyrazolyl)borate ligands

A series of new multitopic ligands with rigid linear geometry are formed by joining tris(pyrazolyl)methane and tris(pyrazolyl)borate units with arenyl and alkynyl linkers using Sonogashira and related alkynyl coupling reactions. These ligands are new examples of “third generation” poly(pyrazolyl)borate and poly(pyrazolyl)methane ligands, ligands functionalized at the non-coordinating “back” positions of either the boron or central carbon atoms. The reaction of Na[OCH2C(pz)3] with propargyl bromide yields HC2CH2OCH2C(pz)3 (2) and homocoupling of this alkyne yields [-C2CH2OCH2C(pz)3]2. The reaction of Na[OCH2C(pz)3] with 3,5-(BrCH2)2C6H3I yields 3,5-[(pz)3CCH2OCH2]2C6H3I (4), which can be converted to 3,5-[(pz)3CCH2OCH2]2C6H3(C2H) (6) by reaction with HC2SiMe3 followed by removal of the SiMe3 group. Compounds 4 and 6 can be combined to form {3,3′,5,5′-[(pz)3CCH2OCH2]4(1,1′-C6H3C2C6H3) (7) and 6 homocoupled to form {3,5-[(pz)3CCH2OCH2]2C6H3C2-}2. Compound 6 reacts with p-I2C6H4 to produce 3,3′,5,5′-[(pz)3CCH2OCH2]4[p-(1,1′-C6H3C2)2C6H4], which can also be formed by the reaction of 4 with bis(ethynyl)benzene. The reaction of 2 with Fe[(p-IC6H4)B(pz)3]2 yields the bitopic, metalloligand Fe[(pz)3CCH2OCH2-C2-C6H4B(κ3-N,N′,N″-pz)3]2 (10) and a similar reaction with 6 yields the tetratopic metalloligand Fe[{3,5-[(pz)3CCH2OCH2]2C6H3C2}C6H4B(κ3-N,N′,N″-pz)3]2. The molecular structures of 2, 4, 7, and 10·4CH2Cl2 are reported and their supramolecular structures, organized by a series of CH⋯I and CH–π interactions, are detailed.
Mechanisms of photoreceptor death in retinal degenerations. From the cell biology of the 1990s to the ophthalmology of the 21st century

There is still no effective treatment for retinal degenerative diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa (RP), in which the loss of photoreceptor cells causes visual loss and eventually blindness. In addition to its intrinsic scientific interest, basic research aimed at elucidating the biological mechanisms regulating the survival and function of cones and rods is also important from a clinical perspective, since it could provide a foundation for the development of therapeutic strategies for these diseases. The recent observation that photoreceptor degeneration in several RP animal models occurs through programmed cell death (apoptosis) illustrates this possibility well. This article will present a brief overview of recent research contributions toward the search for treatments for retinal degenerations of genetic origin.
OPTIMAL POLYNOMIAL CONTROL FOR SEISMICALLY EXCITED NON‐LINEAR AND HYSTERETIC STRUCTURES

In this paper, we present an optimal polynomial controller for reducing the peak response quantities of seismically excited non-linear or hysteretic building systems. A performance index, that is quadratic in control and polynomial of any order in non-linear states, is considered. The performance index is minimized based on the Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman equation using a polynomial function of non-linear states, which satisfies all the properties of a Lyapunov function. The resulting optimal controller is a summation of polynomials in non-linear states, i.e. linear, cubic, quintic, etc. Gain matrices for different parts of the controller are determined from Riccati and Lyapunov matrix equations. Numerical simulation results indicate that the percentage of reduction for the selected peak response quantity increases with the increase of the earthquake intensity. Such load adaptive properties are very desirable, since the intensity of the earthquake ground acceleration is stochastic in nature. The proposed optimal polynomial controller is an effective and viable control method for non-linear or hysteretic civil engineering structures. It is an addition to available control methods in the literature.
The structure of the sleeping genome: Implications of sperm DNA organization for somatic cells

The tertiary structure of the DNA that makes up the eukaryotic genome is remarkably plastic, taking many different forms in response to the different needs of the cell. During the cell cycle of one cell, the DNA is replicated, reorganized into mitotic chromosomes, and decondensed into interphase chromatin. Within one cell at any given point in time, the chromatin is divided into hetero- and euchromatin reflecting active and inactive states of the DNA. This organization varies within one organism since different parts of the genome are active in different cell types. This article focuses on the most dramatic cell-type-specific DNA organization, that found in spermatozoa, in which the entire genome is reorganized into an inactive state that is more highly condensed than mitotic chromosomes. This unique example of eukaryotic DNA organization offers some interesting clues to the still unanswered questions about the role that the three-dimensional packaging of DNA plays in its function.
Novel approaches to angular scatter imaging using the translating apertures algorithm

A new method of acquiring and processing angular scatter data in ultrasonic imaging is presented. This method, based on the translating apertures algorithm, eliminates system-dependent changes in the received point spread function (psf) that are associated with more conventional methods of angular scatter measurement. This ensures that changes in the received echo are dominated by changes in the angular scattering behavior of insonified targets, and allows for the development of a variety of new imaging methods. Comparison of received echoes acquired at multiple interrogation angles serves to enhance the contrast of targets exhibiting variations in angular scattering behavior relative to the surrounding medium. Emphasis is placed on the improved ability to highlight biological targets that exhibit significant variations in compressibility or density relative to background tissue (e.g. breast microcalcifications, calcified atherosclerotic plaques). Simulation indicates the enhancement of breast microcalcification contrast by 10 - 30 dB over standard b-mode acquisition at 10 MHz. More sophisticated imaging methods involving the frequency dependence of angular scatter and angular speckle coherence are also discussed. Practical implementation and evaluation of this method on a modern imaging system is discussed, and expectations for the performance and utility of this algorithm in clinical diagnosis are investigated.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Multitype interference suppression in multiuser fast fading DSSS wireless channels

Wireless communication channels in fast fading environments can distort the transmitted signal severely, especially in the presence of other interferences such as multiple access and jamming. In this paper, we propose a multitype interference suppression scheme for fast fading direct sequence spread spectrum (DSSS) systems. The overall receiver structure is aimed to reduce these impairments using time-varying processing techniques integrated with an orthonormal-basis minimum mean square estimator with time-frequency diversity. Using simulations, we compare the proposed receiver with existing multiuser detectors, and demonstrate its simpler implementation and improved performance.
Hazards of Buried Radioactive Wastes from Electricity Generation

We consider the risk of high level radioactive waste from nuclear power plants, once buried in the ground, being released by ground water intrusion and eventually being ingested by a human to cause cancer. A probabilistic risk analysis is given for an average United States burial site—it seems reasonable to assume that a particular carefully selected site would be at least as secure. If the effects are summed indefinitely into the future, the result is 0.02 deaths per gigawattelectric year (GWe -y). It is shown that this is thousands of times less than the deaths per GWe-y now being caused by coal burning electricity generation. Compelling arguments are given that only effects over the next 1,000 years should be considered, and these are very much smaller. A probabilistic risk analysis is given for an average low level waste burial site, adding up effects indefinitely into the future; the result is 0.0005 deaths per GWe-y . The reasons why the public perceives the dangers from radioactive waste to be so m...
Evaluation of Speed Camera Enforcement in the District of Columbia

Washington, D.C., implemented a speed camera enforcement program in 2001. Vehicle speeds were measured before and after the program. Seven sites in Washington were selected randomly from a total of 60 targeted enforcement zones. Speed data were collected 1 year before enforcement and approximately 6 months after enforcement began. Results indicated that mean traffic speeds and the proportion of drivers traveling more than 10 mph above the speed limit—fast enough to warrant a speeding ticket—were reduced at each of the Washington study sites. At eight comparison sites in nearby Baltimore, Maryland, where speed camera enforcement was not in place, no decline in traffic speeds was observed. Overall, mean speeds at Washington sites declined by a statistically significant 14% compared with Baltimore sites, and the proportion of vehicles exceeding the speed limit by more than 10 mph declined 82%. These findings indicate that speed camera enforcement reduced speeding on surface streets throughout Washington. On ...
Changing beliefs and the term structure of interest rates: Cross-equation restrictions with drifting parameters

Abstract This paper shows how to estimate a Bayesian VAR with drifting parameters and nonlinear cross-equation restrictions. The restrictions promote parsimony by reducing the dimension of the drifting component in conditional mean parameters. As an application, the paper investigates an anticipated-utility version of the expectations model of the term structure. The estimates suggest that changing beliefs matter for understanding the yield curve and point to an intriguing clue about risk premia. Local approximations to the mean yield spread are highly correlated with the variance of the trend short rate, suggesting a connection between uncertainty about the long-run target of monetary policy and risk premia on long-term bonds.