cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Insulin regulation of plasma free fatty acid concentrations is abnormal in healthy subjects with muscle insulin resistance

This study evaluated the ability of insulin to regulate free fatty acid (FAA) concentrations in healthy nondiabetic subjects selected to be either insulin-resistant or -sensitive on the basis of insulin-mediated glucose disposal by muscle. Comparisons of steady-state plasma glucose (SSPG), insulin (SSPI), and FFA concentrations were made at the end of 3 infusion periods: (1) under basal insulin conditions (∼ 10 μU/mL), (2) in response to isoproterenol-induced stimulation of lipolysis at the same basal insulin concentration, and (3) following inhibition of isoproterenol-induced lipolysis by a 2-fold increase in the insulin concentration. The results showed that steady-state FFA concentrations were significantly higher under basal conditions (360 ± 73 v 158 ± 36 μEq/L, P = .02), in response to isoproterenol-induced lipolysis (809 ± 92 v 433 ± 65 μEq/L, P = .005), and following insulin inhibition of isoproterenol-induced lipolysis (309 ± 65 v 159 ± 37 μEq/L, P = .06). These differences were found despite the fact that SSPG concentrations were also higher in insulin-resistant individuals during all 3 infusion periods. These results demonstrate that the ability of insulin to regulate plasma FFA concentrations is impaired in healthy subjects with muscle insulin resistance, indicating that insulin-resistant individuals share defects in the ability of insulin to stimulate muscle glucose disposal and to inhibit adipose tissue lipolysis.
The Association Between Prenatal Care and Birth Weight Among Women Exposed to Cocaine in New York City: A Correction

To the Editor. —We are writing to alert the readers of JAMA to two errors we have discovered in our article, "The Association Between Prenatal Care and Birth Weight Among Women Exposed to Cocaine in New York City." 1 The first is a transcriptional error that appears in Table 1 and the second is a coding error in one of the variables that will result in changes to Tables 1, 4, and 5 as well as Figs 1 and 2. The transcriptional error concerns the values of prenatal exposures to other drugs. As they appear in Table 1 in the published article, these values are 5% for blacks, 5% for whites, and 3% for Hispanics. These values should read 24% for blacks, 35% for whites, and 31% for Hispanics. The coding error occurred in programming the missing values for the variable prepregnancy weight. On the data tapes we received from
Biophysical and Ultrastructural Characterization of Adeno-Associated Virus Capsid Uncoating and Genome Release

We describe biophysical and ultrastructural differences in genome release from adeno-associated virus (AAV) capsids packaging wild-type DNA, recombinant single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), or dimeric, self-complementary DNA (scDNA) genomes. Atomic force microscopy and electron microscopy (EM) revealed that AAV particles release packaged genomes and undergo marked changes in capsid morphology upon heating in physiological buffer (pH 7.2). When different AAV capsids packaging ss/scDNA varying in length from 72 to 123% of wild-type DNA (3.4 to 5.8 kb) were incrementally heated, the proportion of uncoated AAV capsids decreased with genome length as observed by EM. Genome release was further characterized by a fluorimetric assay, which demonstrated that acidic pH and high osmotic pressure suppress genome release from AAV particles. In addition, fluorimetric analysis corroborated an inverse correlation between packaged genome length and the temperature needed to induce uncoating. Surprisingly, scAAV vectors required significantly higher temperatures to uncoat than their ssDNA-packaging counterparts. However, externalization of VP1 N termini appears to be unaffected by packaged genome length or self-complementarity. Further analysis by tungsten-shadowing EM revealed striking differences in the morphologies of ssDNA and scDNA genomes upon release from intact capsids. Computational modeling and molecular dynamics simulations suggest that the unusual thermal stability of scAAV vectors might arise from partial base pairing and optimal organization of packaged scDNA. Our work further defines the biophysical mechanisms underlying adeno-associated virus uncoating and genome release.
The J-curve effect and the US-Canada forest products trade

Abstract This paper examines the dynamic effect of the US–Canada exchange rate on bilateral trade of forest products between the two countries. Special attention is given to investigate the J-curve hypothesis: whether or not the trade balance for US forest products trade with Canada benefits from a decline in the value of the US dollar. We adopt the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach to cointegration to estimate quarterly bilateral trade data between the US and Canada from 1989 to 2005. We find little evidence of the J-curve phenomenon for US forest products trade with Canada.
Factors Affecting Development of Communities in 3D Immersive Learning Environments

This study is based on survey research conducted in 2010 and 2011, involving graduate students using a 3D immersive environment for their coursework. Investigators examined students’ perceptions of community and presence via coursework offered in the immersive world. Utilizing the Sense of Community II index and the Communities of Inquiry survey, variables examined include students’ time within their graduate programs, time spent in the 3D environment, and their levels of immersion, as well as the relationship between the two instruments. Analysis showed significant results for each of the research questions for both instruments. Factors Affecting Development of Communities in 3D Immersive Learning Environments
Wave-Base, Marine Profile of Equilibrium, and Wave-Built Terraces: A Critical Appraisal

The concept of wave-base and its corollaries, the marine profile of equilibrium and the wave-built terrace, are largely erroneous. They do not dominantly control the development of the continental shelf and slope. The treatment of these concepts in geologic textbooks and sourcebooks needs revision. Wave-base, although a useful concept if applied generally to the surficial zone of the ocean of high-ambient agitation, does not control shelf deposition as the entire shelf is above any wave-base in this sense. Instead, the shelf is a drowned and relict surface, developed by oscillation of sea level and prograding and regressing paralic sediments—and here surf plays the dominant role. Sedimentation on the continental terrace is not controlled by wave-base but chiefly by topography; the continental slope is undergoing erosion rather than prograding, and ultimate deposition occurs on the continental rise. The wave-cut terrace is not cut at wave-base but at surf-base. Wave-built terraces are nonexistent both on a small scale and on a grand scale as an explanation of the continental slope. A marine profile of equilibrium is developed in the nearshore zone and is associated with a migrating lens of sand, but the outer-shelf profile is not a profile of equilibrium.
Minimum wages and the economic well‐being of single mothers

Using pooled cross-sectional data from the 1992 to 2005 March Current Population Survey (CPS), this study examines the relationship between minimum wage increases and the economic well-being of single mothers. Estimation results show that minimum wage increases were ineffective at reducing poverty among single mothers. Most working single mothers were not affected by minimum wage hikes because they already earned wages above state and federal minimum wages. And less-educated single mothers who were affected did not see a rise in net income because of negative employment and hours effects. For this low-skilled population, a 10 percent increase in the minimum wage was associated with an 8.8 percent reduction in employment and an 11.8 percent reduction in annual hours worked. © 2008 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management
Stepped care for obsessive-compulsive disorder: An open trial.

This study evaluated the effectiveness and treatment costs associated with a stepped care protocol of exposure and response prevention (EX/RP) for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). In the current open trial, patients (N = 14) began with self-directed EX/RP and minimal therapist guidance over the course of six weeks (Step 1). During this phase of treatment, no therapist-directed exposures were conducted. Those who did not respond optimally to Step 1 went on to Step 2, which consisted of 15 sessions of twice-weekly therapist-directed exposures. Results of this study show promise for stepped care utilizing EX/RP for some patients with OCD, with a response rate of 88% and a 60% reduction on the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) score among treatment completers. Significant improvements were found in Y-BOCS from pre to post-treatment for both Step 1 and Step 2 completers. Forty-five percent of participants (n = 5) responded following completion of Step 1, resulting in reduced cost of treatment among these participants. All participants who responded to Step 1 maintained acute gains during the brief follow-up period. Limitations include a small sample size and high attrition rate.
Prompt stimulation by TSH of thyroid oxidation of thiocyanate.

TSH (4 U, iv)1 was given to rats on a low iodine diet 30 min before an ip injection of KSCN labeled with 35S; within 15 min after the SCN injection, thyroid oxidation of thiocyanate was significantly greater than in controls not given TSH. Prompt stimulation of thyroid oxidation of SCN was also observed in Purinafed rats, including animals acutely pretreated with perchlorate. The formation of sulfate by calf thyroid slices incubated in 0.1 mil KSCN was enhanced within 15 min by TSH (50 mU/ ml). In canine thyroid slices, supplementing the medium with dbcAMP also stimulated thiocyanate oxidation. Thiocyanate oxidation by bovine thyroid slices was enhanced by the presence of 0.1 mM H2O2 or a hydrogen peroxide generating system in the medium. Both basal and TSH stimulated oxidation of SCN were inhibited by methimazole, thiols, anaerobiosis and inhibitors of electron transport. The promptness with which TSH augments thyroid oxidation of thiocyanate, as well as other features of this response in vivo and in vit...
Neurologic outcome following successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation in dogs.

Abstract Successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation necessitates that both myocardial and central nervous system function be restored with minimal longterm damage. Recent resuscitation research has emphasized minimizing neurologic damage during and after cardiopulmonary resuscitation. However, whether neurologic damage is a major cause of death or morbidity following successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation is unknown. This study examined the role of neurologic injury as a cause for morbidity and mortality following cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and if parameters used successfullly during resuscitation for assessing the potential for myocardial salvage, could also be used to predict neurologic outcome. Eighty-eight mongrel dogs underwent 3 min of untreated ventricular fibrillation and either 15 or 17 min of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Twenty-four hour survivors were evaluated with a neurologic deficit scoring system. Thirty-one percent of these animals were never resuscitated. Twenty-eight percent were resuscitated, but expired prior to 24 h. Approximately half of those who expired after resuscitation died from apparent neurologic sequellae. Forty-one percent of the 88 animals survived for 24 h. Two-thirds of these survivors were completely neurologically normal, while one-third were neurologically impaired. Hemodynamic parameters useful in assessing cardiovascular prognosis were not helpful in predicting neurologic outcome. Hence, although the majority of resuscitated animals did not suffer neurologic damage, up to one-third did exhibit neurologic impairment following resuscitation. Neurologic injury is also a major contributor to early death following successful resuscitation. Hemodynamic parameters of cardiovascular recovery do not predict neurologic outcome after prolonged cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Solving incomplete and incorrect information problems using conditional planning, execution monitoring, and situated planning agents

The world is not a neat and well-ordered place. Incomplete and incorrect information is receiving each moment. Incompleteness arises because the world is inaccessible. Incorrectness arises because the world does not match its model. Complete and correct information is crucial in many situations where the success or failure of an operation depends of the quality of information. When the unexpected or unknown occurs, conditional planning, execution monitoring, or situated planning can help system to recover and get back on the right track. This paper shows how incomplete and incorrect information problems can be solved using conditional planning, execution monitoring and situated planning agents - intelligent knowledge-based software agents.
Marmosets express a fetal zone at birth but no ZR in adulthood.

The newborn marmoset produces large amounts of DHEAS that fall to low= undetectable levels in adults. Is there a fetal zone in newborns and ZR in adults, distinct from the ZF by low=absent 3b-HSD and higher cyt b5? We used IHC to stain adrenals from one day (n ¼ 2) vs. one year-old (n ¼ 4) marmosets for b5, reductase, P450c17, and 3b-HSD. Expression of b5 in 1 d-olds was undetectable in the ZG=ZF and strong in the inner half of the cortex, suggesting a fetal zone (FTZ). Reductase stained slightly in the ZG=ZF and strongly in the FTZ. P450c17 expression was undetectable in the ZG, faint in the ZF, and strong in the FTZ. 3bHSD stained in the outer cortex but not in the FTZ. In 1 y-old adrenals, b5 staining was undetectable in any region of the cortex. Reductase stained slightly in the ZG and stronger in the ZF. P450c17 was undetectable in the ZG and positive in the ZF. 3b-HSD staining was highest in the ZG and uniform through the ZF to the medullary interface. These results suggest the newborn marmoset adrenal, like the human, contains a significant FTZ geared to C19 steroid production while the adult shows a ZG and ZF, but no ZR.
Response to Safran: The Development of Critical Psychoanalytic Sensibility

Jeremy D. Safran feels that my views regarding the relative merits of case studies and systematic empirical research are unnecessarily polarizing. I feel that, on the contrary, I'm offering bridges between my perspective and those of researchers on psychoanalytic process and outcome in two ways. One is through my own constructivist critique of traditional positivist case studies and theorizing based upon clinical experience. The second is through conceptualizing the place of systematic research within a constructivist paradigm. I am arguing that its place can be no different than that of case studies. Both generate possibilities for any particular analyst or analytic therapist to have in mind as he or she works with a particular patient at a particular moment. Safran locates the destructive effects of scientism with “biologically oriented researchers and cognitive therapists.” In my view, it might be convenient if the problem could be located exclusively with them, but the fact is that psychoanalytic rese...
Paramyosin of Rabbit Muscle

FROM the point of view of protein content, muscles may be divided into two groups: those that contain and those that do not contain paramyosin (also called tropomyosin A) in the myofibrils1–4.
Colored pseudo Goldstone bosons and gauge boson pairs.

If the electroweak symmetry breaking sector contains colored particles weighing a few hundred GeV, then they will be copiously produced at a hadron supercollider. Colored technipions can rescatter into pairs of gauge bosons. As proposed by Bagger, Dawson, and Valencia, this leads to gauge boson pair rates far larger than in the standard model. In this Letter we reconsider this mechanism, and illustrate it in a model in which the rates can be reliably calculated. The observation of both an enhanced rate of gauge-boson-pair events and colored particles would be a signal that the colored particles were pseudo Goldstone bosons of symmetry breaking.
Water Vapor Sorption on Lithium Kaolinite

A sorption apparatus consisting of (1) a high vacuum system (<10−5 mm Hg), (2) an oil manometer to determine the equilibrium vapor pressure, (3) a quartz helix to determine weight of adsorbate, and (4) a constant temperature control for the adsorption chamber has been used to obtain water vapor sorption isotherms on kaolinite. Equilibrium between water vapor and the clay surface can be obtained in 2 hours with this equipment. The estimated error in relative pressure (P/P0) and amount of water adsorbed (X) are ± 0.001 and ± 0.07 mg H2O/g clay respectively. Reproducibility of sorption isotherms for clay samples similarly prepared are within these limits. When retested those clay samples that had stood in the laboratory for a few weeks gave sorption isotherms slightly different from the initial isotherm. This variation, while not excessive, seriously limited interpretation of the sorption data.
Mechanical dislocations and steady state processes

Es wird gezeigt, dass in einem elastischen, zylindrischen Korper der stationare Warmefluss (oder ein vergleichbarer physikalischer Prozess) eine hinreichendeund notwendige Bedingung dafur ist, dass sich die Spannungen aus einem Hilfsproblem mit fester Temperatur berechnen lassen. Es folgt daraus, dass sich in der Elastizitat ebener Probleme nur stationare Prozesse bei der Anwendung photoelastischer Methoden durch mechanische Dislokationen darstellen lassen.
On the estimation of minimum mechanical loss during an in situ biogenic silica dissolution experiment

Abstract Maximum dissolution rates of biogenic silica as a function of depth in the ocean were calculated as a function of the variables temperature, pH, dissolved silicon concentration, and the measured surface area of radiolarian skeletons of a single species. These rates when compared with observed weight losses during an in situ dissolution experiment suggest a mechanical weight loss of about 50%. The relationship between mechanical weight loss and total weight loss is linear, suggesting the usefulness of this mathematical approach to dissolution experiments as well as the need for caution in trying to apply such loss data directly to the environment.
Metal catalyzed synthesis of carbon nanostructures in an opposed flow methane oxygen flame

Abstract Results of an experimental study on metal-catalyzed synthesis of carbon tubular nanostructures in opposed flow flame are reported. The catalytic support made of Ni-alloy was positioned at the fuel side of the opposed flow flame formed by fuel (96%CH4+4%C2H2) and oxidizer (50%O2+50%N2) streams. The electron microscopy studies reveal the presence of highly organized carbonaceous structures with the configurations showing strong dependence on the flame location. Several typical structures were detected. These include: multiwalled nanotubes (MWNT), MWNT bundles, irregular high-density carbon nanofibers, long (up to 0.2 mm) uniform-diameter (∼100 nm) nanofibers, helical regularly coiled tubular nanofibers, and ribbon-like coiled nanofibers with rectangular cross section. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies performed on long nanofibers revealed the presence of highly organized multiple (∼100) graphene layers. These layers are parallel to the nanofiber axis resembling the structure of MWNT. The TEM studies of coiled nanofibers show internal tubular structure and the presence of regular carbon lattice. The well-aligned bundles of nanotubes were examined by TEM showing tight packing of MWNTs with varying inner and outer diameters. The diversity of formed nanomaterials is attributed to the strong variation of flame properties along the flame axis including temperature, hydrocarbon and radical pool. This provides strong selectivity for formation of different nanoforms even without adjustment of catalyst properties.
Attaining and Maintaining Isometric and Isokinetic Goals of the Shaker Exercise

Previous studies have shown that the Shaker Exercise is effective in restoring oral intake in patients with deglutitive failure due to upper esophageal sphincter (UES) dysfunction. Our aim was to determine (1) exerciser compliance among healthy older adults, (2) number of days required to attain the isometric (IM) and isokinetic (IK) exercise goals, (3) rate and reason for dropout of exercisers, and (4) complaints associated with performance of the exercise. Twenty-six nondysphagic older adults were enrolled from an independent-living community (66–93 yr) to perform the Shaker Exercise. Each participant completed a questionnaire on exercise performance and its associated difficulties three times a day for six weeks. Four randomly chosen nondysphagic participants underwent pre- and postexercise videofluoroscopic swallow studies for biomechanical measurements. Maximum anterior hyoid and laryngeal excursions, as well as maximum anteroposterior UES opening increased (p < 0.05) following exercise. Duration to attain Shaker Exercise performance goals varied among participants. IK was more easily attained than IM. Only 50% and 70% of those enrolled initially were able to complete the exercise duration and attain its IK and IM goals, respectively. However, those who stayed in the program attained the IK and IM goals (100% and 74%, respectively). Most dropouts occurred in the first two weeks of exercise. Performance of the exercise was associated with mild muscle discomfort that resolved spontaneously after a couple of weeks. We concluded that although the Shaker Exercise can be performed independently, a structured and gradually progressive program is needed to attain the exercise goals completely.
Evaluating Transmission Technologies: Case of Bonneville Power Administration

The focus of this paper is on power transmission gridlocks, we studied Bonneville power administration (BPA) Transmission Technology Roadmap of September 2006 and focused on resolving transmission gridlocks problem, the methodology used in the paper was literature research along with 2 experts in the field, one expert is from BPA company and the second expert has more than 20 years experience in the industry. We present 3 technologies for short term (0-5 years) and 3 more disruptive technologies for the long term (5-10 years). It is highly important to make decisions in the early stage of technology development since there are many uncertainties. This paper applies technology assessment/acquisition methodology for the Power Transmission technologies required to resolve the gridlock and congestion problem. Most of the articles found in the industry literature, each technology were evaluated and assessed individually against the current power grid capabilities. This paper compares more than three technologies' capabilities against each other and the current grid capabilities for both short-term period long-term technologies. Since challenges to the expanded use of power electronics is the high cost and lack of proven performance, reliability and durability. More collaboration of academic researchers and the power transmission companies along with technology vendors to ensure that the most valuable ideas and technologies are considered. Thus, this study could be a base for further research and study to compare technologies and assess the best available technologies and ensure that the most valuable technologies are simulated quickly to the market. The paper combines an empirical approach, of looking at the real world, with literature review. It provides an interesting foundation for further research on the topic in the future which might look at a higher number of organizations. The scope of further research should also extend the scope of the analysis beyond power transmission gridlock and congestion.
The structure of a DnaB-family replicative helicase and its interactions with primase

Helicases are essential enzymes for DNA replication, a fundamental process in all living organisms. The DnaB family are hexameric replicative helicases that unwind duplex DNA and coordinate with RNA primase and other proteins at the replication fork in prokaryotes. Here, we report the full-length crystal structure of G40P, a DnaB family helicase. The hexamer complex reveals an unusual architectural feature and a new type of assembly mechanism. The hexamer has two tiers: a three-fold symmetric N-terminal tier and a six-fold symmetric C-terminal tier. Monomers with two different conformations, termed cis and trans, come together to provide a topological solution for the dual symmetry within a hexamer. Structure-guided mutational studies indicate an important role for the N-terminal tier in binding primase and regulating primase-mediated stimulation of helicase activity. This study provides insights into the structural and functional interplay between G40P helicase and DnaG primase.
Evaluation of a rapid, qualitative, allergen‐specific IgE screening immunoassay as an aid in the diagnosis of atopic dermatitis in dogs

An inexpensive, rapid, in-clinic IgE screening immunoassay [Allercept™ E-Screen™– (E-Screen)] has been developed to detect the presence of aeroallergen-specific IgE in the serum of potentially atopic dogs. The working hypothesis of this study is that a positive E-Screen result is an effective indicator of the likelihood of positive results on a 48-aeroallergen-specific IgE immunoassay [Allercept™ Northeast Regional Allergy Screen – (ANRAS)] and 45-aeroallergen intradermal testing (IDT) in dogs with atopic dermatitis. The objective of this study was to compare the results of the E-Screen to the results of the ANRAS and IDT in dogs with atopic dermatitis. Forty-four dogs with a history suggestive of atopic dermatitis were included in the study. The diagnosis of atopic dermatitis was based on history, physical findings, and systematic rule out of other causes of a primary pruritic skin disease. This included the use of home-cooked elimination diets for 8-week trials and empirical treatment for scabies when appropriate. Dogs with a concurrent flea allergy dermatitis or cutaneous adverse reaction to foods were excluded. All clients of the dogs in the study complied with the following drug withdrawals prior to testing: 90 days for all repositol corticosteroids; 30 days for all other injectable, oral and topical corticosteroids; 14 days for all antihistamines, antibiotics, antifungals and essential fatty acid supplements; and 7 days for all nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. For each dog included in the study, the E-Screen, ANRAS, and IDT were performed. All investigators involved were blinded as to the results of the E-Screen until the end of the study. Only dogs with IDT and ANRAS results compatible with the dog's history of pruritus were considered for further evaluation. These dogs were subsequently treated using allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT) utilizing the results of IDT alone for selection of allergens and followed for a minimum of 6 months. The results of IDT and ANRAS were compatible with the history of pruritus in 30 dogs, with the E-Screen test being negative in 17 dogs (57%) and positive in 13 dogs (43%). Follow up on ASIT was obtained on all 30 dogs, with a range of follow up of 6–22 months (mean 13.3 months). Seventeen owners reported a >50% reduction in pruritus with ASIT alone. Four owners reported mild adverse reactions, and the ASIT injection protocols were modified with a >50% reduction in pruritus being reported with ASIT alone. Two owners reported <50% reduction in pruritus with ASIT alone, and seven owners reported severe adverse reactions such that ASIT was discontinued. These observations strongly support the likelihood that the allergens used in ASIT are significant causes of the dogs’ atopic dermatitis. Due to the high numbers of false-negative E-Screen test results (57%), it is not recommended that this test be used to screen for the presence of aeroallergen-specific IgE in the serum of potentially atopic dogs. Funding: Heska Corporation.
Mechanical Simulation of a Diatom Frustule Structure

Diatoms possess intricately complicated nanopatterned silica outer shells, the so called frustules. Due to their excellent three-dimensional (3D) nanostructures, diatom frustules have attracted attentions from many fields to look for potential applications, such as structural material design, light harvesting, photonics, molecular separation and bio-sensing. However, the mechanical property of frustule, especially the role of each single portion that structures a frustule, need to be clearly examined in order to provide a scientific support to frustule utilization. The reported work uses the Finite-Element (FE)-based simulation to investigate the relative mechanical properties of the frustule of the diatom Coscinodiscus sp. as compared with reference non-frustule structures. A three-dimensional model for the three featured layers of this frustule and a simplified model for its girdle band are built with the assistance of ABAQUS. A basic-cell concept is suggested; and the comparative results of several simulation groups are reported. The numerical results indicate that the seven-unit-cell model is able to catch the essential mechanics of the Coscinodiscus sp. frustule under pressure and that the layered and porous structure of this frustule can effectively resist pressure.
Sonographically Guided Posterior Subtalar Joint Injections: Anatomic Study and Validation of 3 Approaches

Objective To describe and validate 3 different approaches to perform sonographically guided posterior subtalar joint (PSTJ) injections. Design Sonographically guided procedures performed on cadaveric specimens. Setting Procedural skills lab at a tertiary medical facility. Methods Three ultrasound-guided approaches to inject the PSTJ: anterolateral, posteromedial, and posterolateral were derived based on anatomic review, published fluoroscopic and computed tomography (CT) techniques, and clinical experience. Three separate unembalmed cadaveric ankle-foot specimens were injected by a single, experienced operator using a 25-gauge, 38-mm stainless steel needle. A different approach was used on each specimen. The needles were left in place and each specimen was subsequently dissected by co-investigators to confirm accurate needle placement and determine the proximity of each needle to local tendons and neurovascular structures. Main Outcome Measurements Direct assessment of needle placement within posterior subtalar joint. Results All 3 approaches provided accurate needle placement into the posterior subtalar joint while avoiding nearby tendinous and neurovascular structures. Conclusions Sonographically guided PSTJ injections are technically feasible. All 3 approaches provide accurate needle placement while minimizing the risk of needle entry into adjacent soft tissue structures not visualized by other modalities such as fluoroscopy or CT.
A comparison of maximum likelihood and least squares for the estimation of a cumulative distribution

Monte Carlo methods are used to compare the methods of maximum likelihood and least squares to estimate a cumulative distribution function. When the probabilistic model used is correct or nearly correct, the two methods produce similar results with the MLE usually slightly superior When an incorrect model is used, or when the data is contaminated, the least squares technique often gives substantially superior results.
Assessing nondrinking outcomes in combined pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy clinical trials for the treatment of alcohol dependence.

Objective: This article argues that nondrinking outcomes are essential to include in complex trials such as COMBINE to assess the hypothesized mechanisms of action and behavioral change associated with both medications and psychotherapy. Toward this end, COMBINE is used as a case study for (1) discussing hypothesized mechanisms of action for behavior change, (2) discussing distinctive design features of combined studies, (3) highlighting issues in the selection of outcome measures, (4) providing a framework for organizing outcome domains and measures and (5) providing a dose-response model for assessing alcoholism treatment outcomes. Methods: A review of the literature and discussion of methodological issues in assessing nondrinking outcomes is provided as well as a case study in developing a conceptual framework for selecting outcome measures. Results: The results of the review and case study include the development of a framework for categorizing outcome dimensions and measures into condition-specific c...
The Incoherence Objection in Moral Theory

J.J.C. Smart famously complained that rule utilitarianism is incoherent, and that rule utilitarians are guilty of “rule worship”. Much has been said about whether Smart’s complaint is justified, but I will assume for the sake of argument that Smart was on to something. Instead, I have three other goals. First, I want to show that Smart’s complaint is a specific instance of a more general objection to a moral theory—what I will call the Incoherence Objection. Second, I want to illustrate how the Incoherence Objection can apply both to consequentialist and, surprisingly, some nonconsequentialist theories. Finally, I want to demonstrate at least one way nonconsequentialist theories that make use of rules, principles, and the like can dodge the Incoherence Objection.
Link fermions and dynamically correlated paths for lattice gauge theory

Abstract The calculation of fermion bound states in lattice QCD is discussed from the point of view of the Feynman path integral and the corresponding lattice “path sum” representation of the fermion propagator. Path sum methods which correlate the trajectories of valence fermion and antifermion constituents of a meson bound state are presented. The resultant Monte Carlo algorithm for the meson propagator samples predominantly those configurations which are expected to be most important for a tightly bound system. Relative to other techniques, this procedure anticipates cancellations due to gauge field averaging, and in addition, allows a more detailed examination of the bound state wavefunction. Inspired by the fermionic path representation of the 2D Ising model, we also introduce a new class of lattice fermion actions with nearest neighbor interactions between Grassman variables associated with links. These link fermions are a simple generalization of Wilson's fermions. They have an additional corner weight parameter which can be adjusted to obtain a much improved dispersion relation for moderate and parge lattice momenta.
Mechanical and structural changes in rat tail tendon induced by alloxan diabetes and aging

Abstract The structure and mechanical properties of tail tendons from rats made diabetic by alloxan monohydrate injection were studied. Several differences are revealed upon comparison with normal tendons from control rats of identical age. In diabetic tendon an increase in the apparent failure region moduli, decreased stress relaxation rate, alterations of the crimp structure and a tendency toward larger collagen fibril diameters are observed. Some of these changes resemble aging acceleration while others must be ascribed to other hypothetical causes.
Thermal analysis of locked multi-ring oil seals

Abstract A thermal bulk-flow analysis for the laminar/turbulent flow in short-length locked multi-ring oil seals is presented. The model accounts for fluid inertia and viscous loss effects at the inlet of the first land in a multi-land oil seal package. The continuity, momentum and energy equations are solved numerically in the seal lands by means of a finite volume method. A radial heat transfer model is used for energy transfer to the seal bushing. Predictions show that multi-land seals have consistently smaller load capacities, stiffness and direct damping coefficients than single-land seals. Temperature increments up to three times the inlet temperature are determined for the seal cases analysed. Comparison between the present model and an isothermal analysis based on an average fluid temperature shows that the latter method overpredicts the cross-coupled stiffness and direct damping coefficients.
Nicotine self-administration acutely activates brain reward systems and induces a long-lasting increase in reward sensitivity.

Nicotine is a major component of tobacco smoke contributing to the initiation and persistence of the harmful tobacco habit in human smokers. The reinforcing effects of nicotine likely arise through its ability to stimulate brain circuitry mediating the detection and experiencing of natural rewards. Nevertheless, remarkably little is known concerning the acute or long-lasting actions of nicotine on brain reward systems in vivo. Here, we investigated the effects of intravenously self-administered nicotine (0.03 mg/kg/infusion, free base) on the sensitivity of brain reward systems, reflected in alterations of intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) thresholds in rats. Rats self-administered nicotine during 1 or 12 h daily sessions, with reward thresholds assessed 1 h before and 15 min after each self-administration session. Control rats remained nicotine naive throughout. Nicotine self-administration increased the sensitivity of brain reward systems, detected by post-nicotine lowering of reward thresholds in 1 and 12 h rats. This nicotine-enhanced sensitivity of reward systems was reversed by the high-affinity nicotinic receptor antagonist dihydro-beta-erythroidine (DHbetaE; 3 mg/kg). Surprisingly, nicotine-induced excitation of reward systems persisted for at least 36 days after nicotine self-administration had ceased. Overall, these data demonstrate that rats can voluntarily consume quantities of nicotine sufficient to increase the sensitivity of brain reward systems, an action likely crucial in establishing and maintaining the nicotine habit. Moreover, self-administered nicotine resets the sensitivity of reward systems to a new increased level, thereby imprinting an indelible 'memory' of its effects in reward systems, an action that so far appears unique to nicotine among drugs of abuse.
Direct effects of ethanol on central nervous system cultures: An electrophysiological and morphological study

Ethanol was applied directly to cultures of mouse cerebellum and cerebral neocortex while spontaneous electrical activity was monitored in the former and stimulus-elicited responses were monitored in the latter. Ethanol characteristically demonstrated an initial excitatory effect on cerebellar cultures, manifested by an increase in spontaneous discharge rate, followed by a depression of spontaneous activity. Only depressant effects were noted in ethanol-treated cerebral neocortex cultures. In both instances, removal of ethanol by washing with normal medium resulted in a return to baseline electrical activity. The rapid reversibility of the depressant effects was thought to favor a membrane-altering mechanism which impairs ionic exchange. Light and electron microscopic studies of cerebellar cultures treated with 0.21 to 1.55 g ethanol/100 ml medium for 6 to 15 days demonstrated only nonspecific changes, i.e., an increase in lysosomes and autophagic vacuoles, particularly in astrocytes. Both electrophysiological and morphological studies revealed that the effects of ethanol in vitro were generally manifested at concentrations well above levels producing effects in vivo.
Temporomandibular Joint Kinematics of the Rabbit Model With Mechanically Disrupted Occlusion

Degeneration of the articulating surfaces and pain associated with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction are the primary symptoms of TMJ disorders (TMDs), where normal life activities such as eating, talking, and even sleeping may be drastically impaired [1–3]. To accelerate the discovery of effective therapeutic interventions for the treatment of TMD pain, we have been establishing a novel non-invasive approach for objectively assessing the presence of joint hypersensitivity. Our approach to identify chronic joint pain is based on evidence that all of the etiological factors associated with TMD pain implicate remodeling and degeneration of the joint in response to alterations in motion and loading. The injury model used for this study was a reversible, mechanical model through splint placement on the molars. It is hypothesized that arthrokinematic analysis will identify a specific pattern of functional changes that constitute a signature for the presence of irreversible damage.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Inhibition of the human startle response is affected by both prepulse intensity and eliciting stimulus intensity

The present study evaluated the effects of the intensity of prepulses and eliciting stimuli on the modification of the adult human acoustic startle eyeblink. Eyeblinks were elicited by 85, 95, and 105 dB(A) noise bursts, preceded a some trials by 60 or 70 dB(A) tones at a 120 ms stimulus onset asynchrony. Prepulse intensity was a within-subject variable in Experiment 1 (N = 19) and a between-groups variable in Experiment 2 (N = 38). For no-prepulse trials, as startle stimulus intensity decreased, startle amplitude, probability, and magnitude decreased, and startle latency increased. As startle stimulus intensity decreased from 105 to 95 dB, the amount of inhibition of response amplitude and magnitude remained stable for 70 dB prepulses in Experiment 1 and for both 60 and 70 dB prepulses in Experiment 2, whereas inhibition of response probability became more pronounced. As startle stimulus intensity decreased from 95 to 85 dB, prepulse inhibition of response amplitude and magnitude lessened and inhibition of response probability became still more pronounced in both experiments. These data show that the inhibition of startle can be affected by eliciting stimulus intensity, and that startle response amplitude and probability are affected by stimulus intensity changes in different ways.
Differential effects of exogenous CCK-8 and CCK-58 on food intake.

Reeve and colleagues reported that CCK-58 is the predominant circulating form of cholecystokinin in the rat (American Journal of Physiology, 2003), raising its possible role in the control of food intake. We compared the effects of CCK-8 and CCK-58 (1, 3, and 5 nmol/kg, intraperitoneally) on intake of 10% sucrose at 30-min intervals throughout a 180-min test period following an overnight food deprivation. All doses of CCK-8 reduced intake at 30 and 60 min, and the highest dose at 90 min. Thereafter, it did not significantly reduce intake. CCK-58 was less effective than CCK-8 early in the test, not having a significant effect at 30 min and being less effective than CCK-8 at that time (p
The Message in Daily Exchange Rates: A Conditional-Variance Tale

Formal testing procedures confirm the presence of a unit root in the autoregressive polynomial of the univariate time series representation of daily exchange-rate data. The first differences of the logarithms of daily spot rates are approximately uncorrelated through time, and a generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedasticity model with daily dummy variables and conditionally t-distributed errors is found to provide a good representation to the leptokurtosis and time-dependent conditional heteroscedasticity. The parameter estimates and characteristics of the models are found to be very similar for six different currencies. These apparent stylized facts carry over to weekly, fortnightly, and monthly data in which the degree of leptokurtosis and time-dependent heteroscedasticity is reduced as the length of the sampling interval increases.
Certifying Juveniles for Adult Court: An Attribution Analysis1

Certification is the process whereby older juveniles who have committed felony offenses are transferred from juvenile courts to adult courts. The present study examined the variables that influence decisions in these cases and used attribution theory to conceptualize the process. Data were obtained from files of 150 youths on whom certification petitions had been filed from January 1981 to October 1984. Of these, 125 had been certified and 25 had not. The sample comprised 148 males and 2 females. Data included seriousness of the offense, previous offenses, potential for aggressiveness, level of involvement in the offense, age, court in which the case was heard, year in which the case was heard, IQ, family income and sex. Level of involvement, seriousness of the offense and potential for aggressiveness had the strongest association with certification outcomes, with those high on these measures significantly more likely to be certified. The cluster that predicted outcomes best included level of involvement, seriousness of the offense, potential for aggressiveness, IQ, year in which the case was heard, court in which the case was heard, sex and previous offenses. The most explicitly behavioral variable—how actively the child participated in the offense—was the best single predictor of outcomes.
Arachidonic acid inhibition of L-type calcium (CaV1.3b) channels varies with accessory CaVβ subunits

Arachidonic acid (AA) inhibits the activity of several different voltage-gated Ca2+ channels by an unknown mechanism at an unknown site. The Ca2+ channel pore-forming subunit (CaVα1) is a candidate for the site of AA inhibition because T-type Ca2+ channels, which do not require accessory subunits for expression, are inhibited by AA. Here, we report the unanticipated role of accessory CaVβ subunits on the inhibition of CaV1.3b L-type (L-) current by AA. Whole cell Ba2+ currents were measured from recombinant channels expressed in human embryonic kidney 293 cells at a test potential of −10 mV from a holding potential of −90 mV. A one-minute exposure to 10 µM AA inhibited currents with β1b, β3, or β4 58, 51, or 44%, respectively, but with β2a only 31%. At a more depolarized holding potential of −60 mV, currents were inhibited to a lesser degree. These data are best explained by a simple model where AA stabilizes CaV1.3b in a deep closed-channel conformation, resulting in current inhibition. Consistent with this hypothesis, inhibition by AA occurred in the absence of test pulses, indicating that channels do not need to open to become inhibited. AA had no effect on the voltage dependence of holding potential–dependent inactivation or on recovery from inactivation regardless of CaVβ subunit. Unexpectedly, kinetic analysis revealed evidence for two populations of L-channels that exhibit willing and reluctant gating previously described for CaV2 channels. AA preferentially inhibited reluctant gating channels, revealing the accelerated kinetics of willing channels. Additionally, we discovered that the palmitoyl groups of β2a interfere with inhibition by AA. Our novel findings that the CaVβ subunit alters kinetic changes and magnitude of inhibition by AA suggest that CaVβ expression may regulate how AA modulates Ca2+-dependent processes that rely on L-channels, such as gene expression, enzyme activation, secretion, and membrane excitability.
Student research and the internet

To help students understand the art of research and the reliability of sources in the age of online information, we should teach them about the nature of `truth'.
Silage‐Concentrate Substitution; Effects on Milk Production and Income Over Feed Cost in DHIA Herds

Milk production response was determined with feed inputs and milk production converted to an estimated net energy basis. Differences in cow size, production, butterfat, and feed quality were taken into account. The data resulted in improved explanation of output variation and showed the importance of silage quality on silage‐concentrate substitution.