cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Polytetrafluoroethylene or saphenous vein as a femoropopliteal bypass graft

This is a retrospective study of 139 consecutive femoropopliteal bypass grafts (64 saphenous vein and 75 polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)) performed at one institution from 1972 to 1978 with a maximum of 93 and 63 months follow-up, respectively. Operative indications were intermittent claudication (53.2%), ischemic rest pain (15.1%), and gangrene (31.6%). Associated diseases were heart disease (54.7%), diabetes (36.7%), and hypertension (24.5%). Overall mortality was 2.9%. Patency by life-table analysis is as follows: a. Patency (%) Graft 1 month 6 months 1 year 2 years 3 years 4 years 5 years 6 years 7 years Vein 92 84 71 59 49 41 41 30 30 PTFE 93 84 75 51 48 39 31 Xa Xa a No data. There is no significant difference in overall patency between vein and PTFE (P > 0.8). Both grafts were compared by similar runoff: poor (isolated popliteal and one vessel—24.5%) and good (two and three vessels—72.7%)—P values were 0.2, respectively. Analysis of patency as compared to operative indications for both grafts were: claudication, P > 0.3; rest pain, P > 0.2; and gangrene, P > 0.2. Patency was then compared to distal anastomotic site—P values were greater than 0.2 between vein and PTFE at either above the knee or below the knee sites. Conclusion: PTFE is comparable to saphenous vein as a femoropopliteal bypass material with the exception of use in poor runoff situations.
In vivo quantification of mouse autoimmune arthritis by PET/CT

Aim To quantify the progression and severity of mouse collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) using an in vivo imaging tool, 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) PET/CT and validate it against gold standard ‘histopathological’ evaluation. Method The PET radiotracer 18F-FDG, a marker for glucose metabolism, was injected in mice at different stages of CIA and the radiotracer distribution was imaged using a PET scanner. A sequential CT scan provided correlated anatomy. Radiotracer concentration was derived from PET/CT images for individual limb joints and on a per-limb basis at different stages of the disease. The imaging outcomes were subjected to correlation analysis with concurrently measured clinical and histological score. Results Clinical and histological score, and hence disease severity, showed a strong linear correlation (r2 = 0.71, P = 0.001 and r2 = 0.87, P < 0.001, respectively) with radiotracer concentration measured from PET/CT during the progression of CIA. Conclusions The strong positive correlation of the 18F-FDG PET/CT findings with the histopathological evaluation at different stages of the disease suggest the potential of this imaging tool for the non-invasive assessment of progression and severity in mouse autoimmune arthritis. Thus, in preclinical studies, 18F-FDG PET/CT can be considered as a non-invasive tool to develop novel therapies of inflammatory arthritis.
Ubiquity symposium: The science in computer science: performance analysis: experimental computer science at its best

In the third installment of this symposium, which originally appeared in the Communication the ACM, we go back to 1981. More than 30 years ago, I called on ACM members to employ more experimental methods and avoid confusing hacking (tinkering) with true science. Joining a long tradition of ACM Presidents speaking up about computing as science.
Molecular Techniques to Detect Biofilm Bacteria in Long Bone Nonunion: A Case Report

Background Biofilms cause chronic infections including those associated with orthopaedic hardware. The only methods that are Food and Drug Administration-approved for detecting and identifying bacterial infections are cultures and selected DNA-based polymerase chain reaction methods that detect only specific pathogens (eg, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). New DNA-based technologies enable the detection and identification of all bacteria present in a sample and to determine the antibiotic sensitivities of the organisms.
Deformation of single-crystal ruthenium☆

Abstract Ruthenium single crystals oriented for single slip on (1100) were deformed by compression at room temperature. Two-stage shear stress-shear strain curves with approximately linear ratesof work hardening were observed. The dislocation distribution formed during stage 1 consisted of bundles containing primary edge dipoles while the stage 2 dislocation structure consisted of primary-secondary prism dislocation tangles lying between tight edge multipoles. Cross-slip activity on (0001) was detected during stages 1 and 2. Dislocations with non-basal Burgers vectors were not found in either stage. The results of this study compare more favorably with the stage 1 work hardening theory proposed by Hirsch and Lally than with any other, wherein the flow stress is controlled by the long-range stress field of multipoles containing excess, unpaired dislocations.
LRP-1 modulates glutamate-induced phase shifting in the mouse SCN circadian clock

In the mammalian circadian clock located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) glutamate mimics light-induced phase shifts through activating NMDA receptors (NMDAR). These phase shifts require concurrent activation of TrkB receptors by brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). tPA contributes to phase shifting by influencing mBDNF generation. tPA also binds to receptors, including LRP-1 and may modulate phase shifting through non-proteolytic mechanisms related to such receptor binding. Here we investigate the effects of inhibiting LRP-1 on glutamate induced phase shifts, using either receptor associated protein (RAP) or an anti-LRP-1 polyclonal antibody to inhibit LRP-1 activity. SCN brain slices from adult male C57BL/6 mice were treated with glutamate (1mM) +/- RAP (500nM) or anti-LRP-1 antibody (75μg/mL) at ZT 16 or ZT 23 (where ZT 0=lights-on in the animal colony) for 10 minutes. The following day we recorded SCN single-unit neuronal activity (SUA) to determine the time of peak activity. Concurrent application of RAP or anti-LRP-1 with glutamate prevents the normal shifts, while RAP alone has no effect on clock phase, suggesting that in the SCN LRP-1 activity is important for glutamate-dependent clock phase regulation. We investigated the potential interaction between tPA and LRP-1 in SCN clock phase shifting using tPA knockout (KO) mice, B6.129S2-PlattmlMlg/J. First we characterized the SUA rhythm in control tPA KO brain slices and after glutamate treatment. SCN slices from adult male tPA KO mice exhibit normally phased neuronal activity rhythms, and 10μM glutamate at ZT16 and ZT23 induces phase delays and phase advances, respectively. Thus, tPA KO mice do not exhibit severe deficiencies in clock phase regulation, possibly reflecting redundant mBDNF-generating pathways. Finally, RAP inhibits glutamate phase resetting in tPA KO slices, indicating LRP-1 does not act exclusively through interactions with tPA. Future studies will continue exploring tPA and LRP-1regulation of SCN circadian clock phase.
Composition of the Photosynthetic Apparatus of Normal Barley Leaves and a Mutant Lacking Chlorophyll b

Comparison of the composition of the energy-trapping apparatus of normal barley photo-synthetic membranes and those lacking chlorophyll b shows that not only is chlorophyll b absent from the mutant, but all constituents (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, carotenoids and the protein moiety) of the major chlorophyll-protein complex of normal higher plant chloroplast membranes are also missing; other chlorophyll-containing components, as far as can be ascertained, are essentially unaffected by the mutation. The nuclear gene which codes for the protein moiety of this complex is suggested as a possible site of the mutation in this barley mutant. This chlorophyll α/β-protein complex which accounts for such a large proportion of the chlorophyll and protein of the photosynthetic apparatus of higher plants is thus not essential for a plant to grow photosynthetically, and therefore a new name, light-harvesting chlorophyll-protein, is proposed for the complex, which was formerly termed the photosystem II chlorophyll-protein. The biosynthetic machinery in the mutant is unable to compensate for the loss of the light-harvesting chlorophyll-protein by adding extra chlorophylls into alternative sites in the membrane, thus the chlorophyll/P700 ratio in the mutant is two-thirds that of the normal plant. The light-harvesting chlorophyll-protein is the major location for chlorophyll b in higher plant membranes. The function of the complex is thought to be analogous to that of the algal biliproteins, i.e. light energy absorbed by the complex is fed preferentially, but not exclusively, to the photosystem II reaction-center or trap. It is reasoned that the complex exerts a strong influence on the organization of photosynthetic lamellae in higher plant chloroplasts by maintaining lamellae in contact with each other.
Acid and acid‐iron fertilizers for iron‐deficiency control in plants

Abstract Acid fertilizers can provide several advantages when applied to alkaline calcareous soils. Among these is the enhancement of Fe availability in localized zones of the soil. New fertilizer matetials are available or can be available for banding in seed rows or for placement in transplant holes for trees and vines to prevent Fe deficiency. The inclusion of elemental S in the fertilizer formula can provide a reserve of acidity when conditions favor oxidation of S. The acid environment created by the presence of so‐called “dry”; acids in the fertilizer can help favor the oxidation. Several dozen formulas for acid fertilizers have been developed, and some of these materials have undergone preliminary tests for prevention of Fe deficiency. The results indicate the practicability of minimizing Fe deficiency in the early stages of growth of field crops.
Detection of smoking-related covalent DNA adducts in human placenta

The presence of covalent DNA chemical addition products (adducts) in human term placentas was investigated by recently developed immunologic and 32P-postlabeling assays. DNA from placental specimens of smokers showed a small but not statistically significant increase in adduct levels when tested by antibodies to DNA modified with a benzo[a]pyrene dihydrodiol epoxide (BPDE-I), the ultimate carcinogenic derivative of benzo[a]pyrene. The postlabeling assay detected several modified nucleotides, one of which (adduct 1) strongly related to maternal smoking during pregnancy. This adduct was present in placental tissue from 16 of 17 smokers, but only 3 of 14 nonsmokers. Among smokers, levels of adduct 1 in general were only weakly related to questionnaire and biochemical measures of the intensity of smoking exposures, which suggests modulation by individual susceptibility factors. The adduct seemed to be derived from an aromatic carcinogen, but it may not result from several of the most intensely studied polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons or aromatic amines in tobacco smoke. The data show the association of cigarette smoking with covalent damage to human DNA in vivo.
Golden Gate Bridge Response: A Study with Low-Amplitude Data from Three Earthquakes

Abstract The dynamic response of the Golden Gate Bridge, located north of San Francisco, CA, has been studied previously using ambient vibration data and finite element models. Since permanent seismic instrumentation was installed in 1993, only small earthquakes that originated at distances varying between ~11 to 122 km have been recorded. Nonetheless, these records prompted this study of the response of the bridge to low amplitude shaking caused by three earthquakes. Compared to previous ambient vibration studies, the earthquake response data reveal a slightly higher fundamental frequency (shorter-period) for vertical vibration of the bridge deck center span (~7.7–8.3 s versus 8.2–10.6 s), and a much higher fundamental frequency (shorter period) for the transverse direction of the deck (~11.24–16.3 s versus ~18.2 s). In this study, it is also shown that these two periods are dominant apparent periods representing interaction between tower, cable, and deck.
Research on a Portable Detection Device of DC Electric Energy in Electrical Vehicle Charging Station

To meet the testing need of wide range DC electrical energy meter in charging stations with the promotion of electrical vehicles, implementation of a portable DC electrical energy meter detection device is proposed. Based on the existing DC electrical energy meter testing procedure, the implementation, detection principle, hardware design and software ideas are introduced. Experiments show that the system can automatically detect the setting items and the testing results are reliable. Strong technical support and service for the development of electric vehicle charging stations is provided.
Giulio de' Medici's music books

David S. Chambers's provocative study of the cardinalate in the late fifteenth and early sixteenth centuries is rich in implications for music historians. A document of December 1509 suggests that at that time a cardinal's household averaged 144 familiares, and the 1526 census revealed similar figures. Moreover, the corporate income of the College of Cardinals had been regulated since 1289 by a Bull of that year that decreed that a half of certain items of papal revenue was to be divided among cardinals resident in Rome, although the actual amounts that individual cardinals received fluctuated in response to changes in the size of the college. There were other sources of income: Roman residents were entitled to the revenue of their ‘title’ church, and those few who held office in the Roman bureaucracy commanded extraordinary salaries. For cardinals with musical interests, the institutional and economic conditions necessary to sustain a musical establishment therefore existed, and despite the relative absence of information on such establishments, we may assume that there were singers and instrumentalists among the familiares of many cardinals' households.
Para‐Xylylenes and analogues by base‐induced elimination from 1,4‐bis‐(dialkylsulfoniomethyl)arene salts in poly(1,4‐arylene vinylene) synthesis by the wessling soluble precursor method

para-Xylylenes are generated by treatment of various 1,4-bis(dialkylsulfoniomethyl)arene dihalides with base in water, methanol, and aqueous acetonitrile, as shown by UV-Vis spectroscopy. This procedure allows the monitoring of the transient xylylene monomers that yield polyelectrolyte precursor polymers for poly(arylene vinylene)s, formed by variations of the chemistry developed originally by Wessling and co-workers. Alkoxy, alkyl, and halogen ring substituents on the sulfonium salt precursors do not greatly affect the ability to generate and observe the growth and decay of steady-state concentrations of the para-xylylene intermediates. Use of strong resonance-acceptor substituents—such as cyano or nitro—on the ring reduces production of a strong para-xylylene absorption, possibly due to reluctance of the ylides initially formed from the bis-sulfonium salts to eliminate to the xylylenes. By variation of UV-Vis conditions, it was found that use of 20% aqueous acetonitrile rather than water allowed formation of low to modest molecular weight polyelectrolytes in cyano-substituted cases (Mw = 8000–37,000). Use of UV-Vis test experiments should be useful for screening of bis sulfonium salt precursors that may be expected to give high molecular weight polyelectrolytes—in cases where para-xylylene formation is easy—as well as for finding reaction conditions that will optimize polymer formation. © 1992 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Gas holdup and solids dispersion in a three-phase slurry bubble column

Studies with three-phase systems in bubble columns have shown that the effect of solids on gas holdup depends on a variety of factors. Important among these are: liquid properties and particle properties such as density, size and concentration in the slurry, and wettability. Most of these studies have been made with cold flow systems; and the data at high temperatures and pressures, i.e., with systems of potential industrial importance, are rare. The objective of this paper is to obtain hydrodynamic data at elevated temperatures using a three-phase system of importance to FTS. In particular, the effects of solids type, size and concentration on gas holdup and axial solids dispersion were investigated. Two types of solids used, iron oxide and silica, simulate typical catalysts and supports, respectively, employed in FTS. A wider range of gas velocities (up to 0.12 m/s) than those used by Deckwer et al, ({lt}0.04 m/s) was employed in this study. Additionally, data were obtained from experiments conducted with slurry circulation (continuous mode of operation), whereas all the previous studies with molten waxes were conducted in the batch mode of operation (without liquid flow).
Risk assessment judgments of auditors and bank lenders: A comparative analysis of conformance to Bayes' theorem

Abstract risk assessment judgments and risk-related perceptions of 164 American auditors and bank lenders are compared using an experimental research design. The auditing work environment is hypothesized to be conducive to more Bayesian risk assessments than the bank lending environment. Results based on an experimental risk assessment task indicate support for this proposition, with perceptual data suggesting there are more incentives for avoiding risk in the bank lending environment than in the auditing environment. More research on factors which impede risk assessments in accordance with Bayes' theorem is advocated.
Photomultiplier tube detector performance and stability for the Earth Observing System's SOLSTICE II instrument

The goal of the Earth Observing System (EOS) SOLar STellar Irradiance Comparison Experiment II (SOLSTICE II) is to measure the solar ultraviolet irradiance (115 nm - 320 nm) to within 5% of its absolute value with a 0.5% per year relative accuracy over the course of a minimum mission lifetime of five years. Most detectors degrade over time while studying the sun. The SOLSTICE instrument design is such that detector and optical system degradation is tracked by routinely observing a series of stable early-type stars. Any changes in the system may then be removed from the solar irradiance. Detector performance and stability lies at the heart of SOLSTICE experimental success. The SOLSTICE detectors are Hamamatsu R2078 PhotoMultiplier Tubes (PMTs). We have developed an integrated PMT package [PMT, PMT housing, (mu) -metal magnetic shield, high voltage divider, and pulse-amplifier discriminator (PAD)] that will achieve our performance objectives. We report here on both the design of the integrated detector package and the laboratory measurements of the operational lifetime performance characteristics of SOLSTICE detectors. These include pulse height distribution, quantum efficiency, photocathode surface uniformity, and magnetic susceptibility.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The synthesis and layer growth of zinc silicon arsenide, ZnSiAs2, by chemical vapor deposition in an open flow system

Detailed conditions are reported for synthesizing ZnSiAs/sub 2/ for the first time from Zn(g), AsH/sub 3/(g), and SiH/sub 4/(g) in an open flow reactor at 640/sup 0/C. Variable thickness growth layers were obtained which are polycrystalline or have preferred orientations. The ZnSiAs/sub 2/ is of the chalcopyrite structure as determined by x-ray diffraction. The substrates were GaAs(100), Ge(100), Si(100 and 111), sapphire (0001) and (1102), and quartz. Conditions which lead to the synthesis and layer growth of Zn/sub 3/As/sub 2/ are reported.
Reduction in adenosine diphosphate-induced platelet aggregation by infusion of norepinephrine into dogs.

Summary In vivo chronic continuous infusion of non-hypertensive low doses of norepinephrine into dogs resulted in a subsequent decreased sensitivity to in vitro adenosine diphosphate-induced platelet aggregation. Simultaneous infusion of propranolol with norepinephrine did not alter the effects observed with norepinephrine infusion alone. Platelets from dogs infused with norepinephrine or norepinephrine plus propranolol showed an increased incorporation of 3 H-adenine into metabolic adenosine triphosphate.
Methodology-21: what do we do in the afterward?

This paper asks “after what” and situates qualitative research in the present moment in the midst of various “deaths” and “returns.” With a focus on fleshing out post-qualitative research, it first sketches efforts to discipline qualitative research via standards and rubrics as a part of neoliberal govenmentality and then elaborates what post-qualitative might mean via four exemplars. The first is from Sweden, a focus on relational entangled data analysis in the feminist classroom; the next two exemplars are collaborative studies from Australia at the intersection of Western and Aboriginal knowledge systems; the final exemplar is from Egypt, a feminist post-colonial study of the women’s mosque movement. The paper concludes with a call to “imagine forward” out of troubling a narrow scientificity and enacting an “after” of neoliberalism.
Dopamine and retinal function

This review summarizes the experimental evidence in support of dopamine's role as a chemical messenger for light adaptation. Dopamine is released by a unique set of amacrine cells and activates D1 and D2 dopamine receptors distributed throughout the retina. Multiple dopamine-dependent physiological mechanisms result in an increased signal flow through cone circuits and a diminution of signal flow through rod circuits. Dopamine also has multiple trophic roles in retinal function related to circadian rhythmicity, cell survival and eye growth. In a reciprocal way, the health of the dopaminergic neurons depends on their receiving light-driven synaptic inputs. Dopamine neurons appear early in development, become functional in advance of the animal's onset of vision and begin to die in aging animals. Some diseases affecting photoreceptor function also diminish day/night differences in dopamine release and turnover. A reduction in retinal dopamine, as occurs in Parkinsonian patients, results in reduced visual contrast sensitivity.
NHLBI Family Heart Study: Objectives and Design

The NHLBI Family Heart Study is a multicenter, population-based study of genetic and nongenetic determinants of coronary heart disease (CHD), atherosclerosis, and cardiovascular risk factors. In phase I, 2,000 randomly selected participants and 2,000 with family histories of CHD were identified among 14,592 middle-aged participants in epidemiologic studies. Medical histories from these individuals, their parents, and their siblings were used to calculate family risk scores that compared the number of reported and validated CHD events with the number expected based on the size, sex, and age of family members. A total of 657 families with the highest risk scores and early-onset CHD and 588 randomly sampled families had clinic examinations that included electrocardiograms, carotid artery ultrasound scans, spirometry, measurements of body size, blood pressure, lipids, lipoproteins, hemostatic factors, insulin, glucose, and routine chemistries. Additional biochemical and genetic studies are being performed on selected participants. Serum, plasma, lymphocytes, red cells, and DNA are stored for future studies, including genotyping of candidate genes and anonymous markers. Contributions of genes, shared and individual environments, and behaviors to variations in risk factors, preclinical atherosclerosis, and CHD will be estimated. Linkage studies, including the quantitative trait loci approach, are planned.
An experimental study of peristaltic pumping

An apparatus that approximates a two-dimensional, infinite train of peristaltic waves yields measurements of mean flow, of mean pressure rise, and of pressure-time pulses at fixed locations. In addition, visual observations of ‘reflux’ and ‘trapping’, using dyed fluid, are shown. The inertia-free range extends up to a Reynolds number of about 1. In this range, the theory of Shapiro, Jaffrin & Weinberg (1969) is confirmed with respect to mean pressure vs. mean flow, pressure vs. time, reflux, and trapping. The controversy regarding the criterion of material reflux is settled in favour of the Lagrangian time-mean velocity rather than the Eulerian time-mean velocity. Experiments at higher Reynolds numbers show that the second-order expansion theory of Jaffrin (1971) is valid up to a Reynolds number of about 10.
Note on the U.S. Demand for Coffee

OUR postwar estimates of the demand function for coffee in the United States, derived from time series, have given elasticities for income between .22 and .60 [1, 2, 4, 5]. Two of the studies [1, 5] noted that the income elasticities using only postwar data were much smaller than the elasticities from the interwar period, and both suggested plausible reasons for the difference: (1) the changed age distribution of the population in the postwar period, important because coffee drinking is negligible for children and small for teenagers compared with adults; (2) the growth in consumption of instant coffee, which uses less green coffee beans than regular coffee; and (3) a steadily rising extraction rate of instant coffee from a given amount of green beans. While it is true these factors have worked in the expected direction in the postwar period, they cannot be the major reasons for the reduced income elasticity since it can be shown that, even after correcting for them, the income elasticity is actually negative in the postwar period. The demand function employed in these studies was Q = f(Yd, rP), where Q is the quantity of green beans consumed annually, Yd is aggregate real disposable income, rP is a weighted average of the prices of regular and instant,l deflated by the all-items CPI. Q and Yd are deflated by specific populations.2 Estimates of the demand parameters are shown in Table 1 for the bestfitting, linear versions for two periods, 1920-41 and 1947-66,3 for three populations-total, fourteen years and older, and 20 years and older4-and, in the postwar period, for two quantity series-the actual amount of green beans consumed and a "corrected for instant" quantity, identified as Q'.
Colorectal cancer prevention: Adherence patterns and correlates of tests done for screening purposes within U.S. populations

Purpose Predictors of adherence to one or more CRC screening guidelines in the United States need to be viewed from the most stringent perspective possible, and previous reports have not adequately explored them. Methods Multiple logistic regression was used on the National Health Interview Survey (2000). Our sample consisted of the U.S. population 50 years of age and older using an outcome variable representing adherence to any combination of endoscopic test or home fecal occult blood test done for screening purposes only and within recommended timelines. Results Only 25.8% (24.9%, 26.7%; 95% CI) of the eligible population was adherent for CRC screening. Hispanics had the lowest adherence rates irrespective of test time, reason or type. Whites were more likely than Blacks and Hispanics for ‘ever had a CRC test'; Blacks were equally likely to Hispanics. Whites were more likely than Blacks and Hispanics to be “time-only adherent;” Blacks were more likely than Hispanics. Blacks were more likely than Whites to have had an endoscopy for screening reasons but no other significant racial differences for screening-test categories existed. In the multivariate model, differences between Whites and Blacks in time-and-screening adherence rates disappeared; Hispanics remained less likely. Among Whites, increasing education predicted increasing adherence, but only the educational category of undergraduate college completion, as compared to a less than high school level education, predicted increasing adherence among Blacks. Male gender predicted greater adherence only among Blacks. Insurance predicted greater adherence only among Hispanics. Conclusion National rates of timely CRC tests for screening purposes are lower than recent studies report. Factors influencing adherence rates differ within races and screening promotion efforts should be tailored accordingly.
Stability constants of europium complexes with a nitrogen heterocycle substituted methane-1,1-diphosphonic acid

Abstract Even in moderately acidic solutions ([H + ] >0.01 M), N-piperidinomethane-1,1-diphosphonic acid (H 4 PMDPA) is a strong complexant of trivalent lanthanide ions that shows enhanced complex solubility over previously studied 1,1-diphosphonic acids. The protonation constants of PMDPA in 2.0 M H/NaClO 4 were determined by potentiometric and NMR titrations, and the stability constants for the formation of complexes with Eu 3+ were determined by solvent extraction. The difference in protonation equilibria induced by the addition of the nitrogen heterocycle results in an increase in the complexation strength of PMDPA. In solutions containing 0.1 M H + and ligand concentrations greater than 0.02 M, PMDPA is the most effective 1,1-diphosphonic acid for europium complexation studied thus far.
Probucol improves endothelial-dependent relaxation and decreases vascular superoxide production in cholesterol-fed rabbits

Recent data indicate that hypercholesterolemia increases endothelial superoxide anion (.O2-) production, and that this diminishes the bioactivity of nitric oxide produced in the endothelium. Probucol, a drug commonly employed for treatment of hypercholesterolemia, has antioxidant properties and inhibits oxidation of low density lipoproteins in vitro. We tested the hypothesis that probucol would decrease vascular .O2- production and improve endothelium-dependent relaxations in cholesterol-fed rabbits. Rabbits were divided into four groups: 1) a control group fed a standard diet; 2) a probucol group fed a standard diet containing 0.3% probucol; 3) a hypercholesterolemic group fed a diet containing 0.5% cholesterol; 4) a hypercholesterolemia-probucol group fed a diet containing 0.5% cholesterol and 0.3% probucol. The cholesterol-rich diet markedly increased plasma total cholesterol level and lipid peroxidation in the plasma, as reflected by thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS). This concentration of probucol did not lower plasma cholesterol, but markedly reduced TBARS in the plasma of cholesterol-fed rabbits. Aortic segments from cholesterol-fed rabbits produced 1.8-fold more .O2- (assessed by lucigenin-enhanced chemiluminescence) and decreased endothelium-dependent vascular relaxations to acetylcholine compared to vessels from normal rabbits. In cholesterol-fed rabbits, probucol treatment normalized both .O2- production and endothelium-dependent relaxations to acetylcholine. In control rabbits, probucol had no effect on either of these parameters. We conclude that probucol treatment may prevent .O2(-)-induced inactivation of endothelium-derived nitric oxide and reduce vascular oxidant stress via reducing the level of .O2-.
FE Modeling of Strain Localization in Soft Rock

A finite-element (FE) model of localized deformation in soft rock taking a strong discontinuity approach is presented. The model is formulated within the context of rate-independent, nonassociated Drucker-Prager plasticity with nonlinear cohesion hardening/softening. Strain localization is modeled as a jump in the displacement field and simulated within the framework of the FE method using the standard Galerkin approximation. The model is used to simulate the load-displacement behavior of Gosford sandstone deforming in plane strain, focusing on the prediction of the stress levels necessary to initiate strain localization, based on the strong and weak discontinuity criteria (jumps in displacement and strain, respectively), and on the demonstration of mesh-independence of the FE solutions in the bifurcated state. For the sandstone, the onset of weak discontinuity is detected first, before the onset of strong discontinuity, suggesting a possible coupling of the two types of discontinuities in the strain-softening regime.
Piezoelectric performance effectiveness for active composite panels with surface-mounted and embedded sensors and actuators using direct constant voltage scheme

This work utilizes a Direct Constant Voltage (CV) Scheme as a versatile tool to study piezoelectric actuator performance effectiveness either surface-mounted or embedded. To achieve this goal calculated control Constant Voltage is employed for active vibration suppression. This paper introduces a closed form formula that replaces Design Charts for a faster and easier way to calculate actuator voltage required for active vibration suppression. To perform a comprehensive study, three finite element models (FEMs) are developed. The first FEM considers non-collocated surface-mounted piezoelectric patches as sensor and actuator for beams with varying thicknesses. The second FEM deals with embedded non-collocated piezoelectric patches as sensor and actuator for beams with varying thicknesses and constant number of constraint layers. For this embedded case one extra layer is needed to cover the piezoelectric patch and one extra cut-out layer to fill the area around the piezoelectric patch compared to the surface-mounted. The third FEM focuses on beams having constant thicknesses with variable number of constraint layers and non-collocated embedded piezoelectric patches. A surface-mounted ACX piezoelectric patch acts as a shaker is all three FEMs. Numerical and experimental results were compared and excellent comparisons were obtained. The Direct Constant Voltage Scheme can offer useful information into the actuator performance effectiveness in terms of: 1) the piezoelectric actuator performance effectiveness with respect to the laminate thicknesses and actuator distance from the beam neutral axis either surface-mounted or embedded, and 2) the influence of the constant and variable number of constraint layers on the embedded piezoelectric effectiveness for beams with variable and constant thicknesses.
2-AG + 2 New Players=Forecast for Therapeutic Advances

In this issue of Chemistry & Biology, Blankman et al. [1] identify new enzymes hydrolyzing the endocannabionoid 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG), increasing the complexity of endocannabinoid signaling in the brain, but also pinpointing additional therapeutic targets.
New generation dopaminergic agents. 2. Discovery of 3-OH-phenoxyethylamine and 3-OH-N1-phenylpiperazine dopaminergic templates

Described in this report is a systematic study which led to the identification of two new dopamine D2 partial agonists (5 and 17). Phenols 5 and 17 represent prototypes of two new classes of D2 partial agonists as well as templates for the future design of novel dopaminergic agents.
WEAK NEUTRAL CURRENTS IN ELECTRON AND MUON SCATTERING

Contributions to inelastic scattering arising from the interference of a weak neutral current with the electromagnetic current are calculated using the Weinberg model and the quark-parton model. These interferences produce nonvanishing ($d{\ensuremath{\sigma}}^{\ensuremath{-}}\ensuremath{-}d{\ensuremath{\sigma}}^{+}$), ($d{\ensuremath{\sigma}}^{\ensuremath{-}(L)}\ensuremath{-}d{\ensuremath{\sigma}}^{+(R)}$), ($d{\ensuremath{\sigma}}^{\ensuremath{-}(L)}\ensuremath{-}d{\ensuremath{\sigma}}^{\ensuremath{-}(R)}$), which give rise to sizable effects when compared to the purely electromagnetic scattering.
Evaluation of the Andersen Viable Impactor for Single Stage Sampling

A modified use of the 6-stage Andersen viable sampler for single stage sampling is described. Although size distribution data are not obtainable with such a sampler, it has utility as a simple and convenient method for estimating the total concentration of viable airborne microorganisms. The method was compared in the field to the standard Andersen sampler and a previously described method for single plate sampling. Over a wide range of airborne fungal concentrations (10-3000 CFU/m3), the modified sampler was found to be superior to the previous method and comparable to the standard Andersen sampler (in terms of both precision and accuracy), for estimating total airborne fungal concentration.
Rigid Analytic Uniformization of Curves and the Study of Isogenies

Complex uniformization of curves is a popular tool in Number Theory. There are, however, some arithmetic and computational advantages in the use of p-adic uniformization. This paper compares the two theories and discusses how they can be used to study isogenies, with explicit examples of p-adic uniformization of hyperelliptic curves.
A combined HRV-fMRI approach to assess cortical control of cardiovagal modulation by motion sickness

Nausea is a commonly occurring symptom typified by epigastric discomfort with the urge to vomit. To date, the brain circuitry underlying the autonomic nervous system response to nausea has not been fully understood. Functional MRI (fMRI), together with a point process adaptive recursive algorithm for computation of the high-frequency (HF) index of heart rate variability (HRV) was combined to evaluate the brain circuitry underlying autonomic nervous system response to nausea. Alone, the point process analysis revealed increasing sympathetic and decreasing parasympathetic response during nausea with significant increased heart rate (HR) and decreased HF. The combined HRV-fMRI analysis demonstrated that the fMRI signal in the medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC) and pregenual anterior cingulate cortex (pgACC), regions of higher cortical functions and emotion showed a negative correlation at the baseline and a positive correlation during nausea. Overall, our findings confirm a sympathovagal shift (toward sympathetic) during nausea, which was related to brain activity in regions associated with emotion and higher cognitive function.
Structure of a two-G-tetrad intramolecular G-quadruplex formed by a variant human telomeric sequence in K+ solution: insights into the interconversion of human telomeric G-quadruplex structures

Human telomeric DNA G-quadruplex has been considered as an attractive target for cancer therapeutic intervention. The telomeric sequence shows intrinsic structure polymorphism. Here we report a novel intramolecular G-quadruplex structure formed by a variant human telomeric sequence in K(+) solution. This sequence forms a basket-type intramolecular G-quadruplex with only two G-tetrads but multiple-layer capping structures formed by loop residues. While it is shown that this structure can only be detected in the specifically truncated telomeric sequences without any 5'-flanking residues, our results suggest that this two-G-tetrad conformation is likely to be an intermediate form of the interconversion of different telomeric G-quadruplex conformations.
Decision support for exception handling and quality control in office operations

Abstract This paper compares and contrasts the approaches of two companies to providing decision support within their office information systems. The offices examined in both companies perform order fulfillment functions. Examples from the companies are presented to illustrate options for providing decision support and the difficulties of matching computer-based support to an underlying office decision process. Three design options, the level of decision automation, the level of decision support, and the accessability of information for decision making, are evaluated in the context of the examples.
β-Lipoproteins: Possible Plasma Transport Proteins for Basic Drugs

Various drugs were screened for possible interaction with β-lipoprotein. The results suggest that β-lipoproteins may act in conjunction with albumin in the plasma transport of basic or cationic drugs.
Effects of synthetic and microbially produced chelates on the diffusion of iron and phosphorus to a simulated root in soil

Hydroxamate siderophores (HS) are microbially produced, ferric-specific chelates, known to occur in soil, and to be capable of providing iron to higher plants. This study examined the potential for HS to influence the diffusion of both iron and phosphorus to plant roots in soil.
Otologic surgery following ear trauma.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate common presentations and expected outcomes in patients with traumatically induced otologic dysfunction. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case review of patients who underwent otologic surgery for sequelae of otologic trauma over a 28-year period. Patients were stratified into major and minor trauma cohorts. Major trauma was designated as closed head injury with or without temporal bone fracture; lower-energy insults comprised the minor trauma group. Preoperative and postoperative audiograms were obtained and correlated with extent of injury. SETTING: Tertiary referral center. RESULTS: Major trauma accounted for 44.9 percent of all patients. The remaining 55.1 percent suffered minor trauma, of which simple traumatic tympanic membrane perforation was the most common insult (33.6%). Two hundred twenty-seven cases were performed on 214 patients. Pure tone averages improved a significant 20.8 dB to essentially normal levels postoperatively. CONCLUSION: Regardless of injury extent, surgical rehabilitation of conductive losses attains excellent hearing results that surpass those historically reported for the chronic ear population.
Inhibition of Release of Acetylcholine by Strychnine and its Implications regarding Transmission by the Olivo-cochlear Bundle

IN previous experiments, we have investigated the effects of various cholinergic blocking agents and other drugs on the release of acetylcholine (ACh) from the Ringer–Locke perfused superior cervical ganglion of the cat after injection of carbachol (0.5–1.0 (µg) into the perfusion solution or supramaximal electrical stimulation (10 c/s for 3 min) of the preganglionic trunk (ref. 1 and our work in preparation). Hexamethonium (10−4 molar), which does not block the release of ACh by preganglionic stimulation2,3, markedly reduced release of ACh induced by carbachol. Similarly, atropine sulphate (10–33 µg) consistently, and 3 × 10−5 molar diallyl bisnortoxiferine or 3 × 10−4 molar dihydro-β-erythroidine occasionally, reduced the amount of ACh released by carbachol, but not by preganglionic stimulation; 2 × 10−4 molar mecamylamine did not affect release of ACh with either type of stimulus. Procaine, at 50 or 10 (µg/ml., reduced release of ACh which had been induced by either preganglionic stimulation or carbachol, but at 1 µg/ml, it was effective only against carbachol-induced release of ACh. Of all the drugs tested, only strychnine blocked or reduced selectively the release of ACh induced by preganglionic stimulation, an effect that was statistically significant (P < 0.05) for the dosage range of 100–1.0 µg/ml.; carbachol-induced release of ACh was reduced markedly at a concentration of 100 µg/ml., but inconsistently or not at all at concentrations of 31.6 µg/ml. or lower1. Strychnine in concentrations of 10−6–10−5 g/ml. has been shown to reduce the output of ACh by the ileum of guinea-pig after coaxial stimulation or treatment with various drugs4. The inhibition by strychnine of the release of ACh by nerve impulse suggests a possible explanation for the apparent inconsistency between histochemical and pharmacological findings at the terminals of the olivo-cochlear bundle of Rasmussen.
Nurse practitioners in rural California and AIDS.

A random sample of nurse practitioners located in the 26 rural counties of California were surveyed to assess their experience with HIV-positive patients. Of those selected, 70.5% participated; of those inter viewed, 65.5% had seen a patient with HIV infection in the past 12 months. Of those providing primary care, 85% had seen HIV-positive patients. Their specific practice activities ranged from simply assessing to making all critical decisions with regard to therapeutic regimes in consultation with AIDS experts. Their most frequent activities involved education and/or counseling and the provision of psychosocial support. In 1995, a telephone survey of a random sample of primary care physicians in the rural counties of California showed that two thirds were involved in the care of HIV-infected patients (Lewis, 1995). Subsequently, the question arose as to the involvement of another source of primary care in rural areas in the care of these individuals—nurse practitioners—as well as their professional roles in the process of care. Little is known about the practice arrangements of advance practice nurses in these rural communities: Are they part of group practices or in solo practice? What are their roles in patient care? To provide information on the involvement in care of HIV-infected persons, and the continuing education needs of these practitioners, a telephone survey was conducted of a random sample of these nurse practitioners.
A Three-Dimensional Network Model for a Low Density Fibrous Composite

A procedure is described that predicts the mechanical behavior of a fibrous material by generating and analyzing finite element models of its three-dimensional microstructure. The approach is applicable to a class of materials with microstructures consisting of fibers connected at well-defined points. The procedure allows one to predict the effect of important sources of heterogeneity in these materials. Analyses determine initial elastic properties, failure mode, and strength of the composite; the failure analysis consists of tracking a progression of microfailures. The procedure is validated by comparison of predictions to test results.
Trigonal catalase crystals: a new molecular packing assignment obtained from sections preserved with tannic acid.

Abstract The molecular packing of a trigonal crystal form of catalase initially studied by Longley [1] has been re-evaluated. Sections of crystals fixed and preserved with tannic acid were obtained parallel to the (001) and (100) planes. Specimens prepared by either conventional or low temperature embedding maintained 20 A resolution after sectioning. The space group of the crystals is either P3 1 21 or P3 2 21 and the observed unit cell parameters for (001) and (100) are a = b =174 A, γ=119° and b =189 A, c =248 A with α=89.5°. Computer-based reconstructions of two principal projections coupled with crystal density measurements allowed the deduction that there is one catalase tetramer per asymmetric unit. The crystal structure consists of 6 molecules packed closely about a common triad screw axis. This interpretation differs from that proposed by Longley [J. Mol. Biol. 30 (1967) 323], because thin sections of embedded crystals were assumed a priori to be positively stained in the early work; in actuality the sections were negatively stained. We also demonstrate that tannic acid fixation can lead to well preserved, positively stained crystal sections under certain conditions.
Asymmetric loss in the Greenbook and the Survey of Professional Forecasters

Abstract This paper examines the forecast rationality of the Greenbook and the Survey of Professional Forecasters (SPF) under asymmetric loss functions, using the method proposed by Elliott, Komunjer, and Timmermann (2005) with a rolling window strategy. Over rolling periods, the degree and direction of the asymmetry in forecast loss functions are time-varying. While rationality under symmetric loss is often rejected, forecast rationality under asymmetric loss fails to be rejected over nearly all rolling periods. Besides, real output growth is consistently under-predicted in the 1990s, and the inflation rate is consistently over-predicted in the 1980s and 1990s. In general, inflation forecasts, especially for long horizons, exhibit greater levels of loss asymmetry in magnitude and frequency. The loss asymmetry of real output growth forecasts is more pronounced when the last revised vintage data are used than when the real-time vintage is used. All of these results hold for both the Greenbook and SPF forecasts. The results are also similar with the use of different sets of instrumental variables for estimating the asymmetric loss and testing for forecast rationality.