cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The role of amniotic fluid interleukin-6, and cell adhesion molecules, intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and leukocyte adhesion molecule-1, in intra-amniotic infection.

PROBLEM: To determine amniotic fluid concentrations and correlations of interleukin-6 (IL-6), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and leukocyte adhesion molecule-1 (LAM-I) in patients with and without intra-amniotic infection. METHOD OF STUDY: Fourteen specimens with intra-amniotic infection and 45 without intra-amniotic infection were studied. Intra-amniotic infection was defined as the presence of positive amniotic fluid culture. Amniotic fluid IL-6, ICAM-1, and LAM-1 levels were determined by an enzyme-linked immunoassay, and normalized by amniotic fluid creatinine levels. RESULTS: Amniotic fluid concentrations of IL-6 and LAM-1 were significantly higher in patients with than without intra-amniotic infection. However, amniotic fluid ICAM-1 concentrations were not significantly different between two groups. Amniotic fluid IL-6, LAM-1, and ICAM-1 were positively correlated. CONCLUSIONS: Our data indicate that amniotic fluid IL-6 is significantly associated with an increased adhesion molecule expression in intra-amniotic infection. However, LAM-1 plays a more important role than ICAM-1 in intra-amniotic infection.
Simulated moving bed chromatography. Effects of axial dispersion and mass transfer under linear conditions

In a previous publication, we have given the analytical solution of Simulated Moving Bed (SMB) chromatography in the linear, ideal case for a binary mixture. This solution predicts the concentration profiles of the two components along the columns and the concentration histories at the raffinate and the extract ports. It shows the asymptotic nature of SMB operation. In this report, the influence of the non-ideal effects arising from the axial dispersion and the finite rate of the mass transfer kinetics are investigated. Results obtained by the numerical simulation of the non-ideal model are compared with those given by the analytical solution of the ideal model. The consequences of a progressive increase of the dispersion of the solution are illustrated. The consequences of the non-ideal effects on the design of the industrial SMB process are also discussed.
The therapeutic role of exercise in patients with orthotopic heart transplant.

January 1995 marked the 27th anniversary of the performance of the first human cardiac transplant in the United States. This followed nearly a decade of laboratory work developing and validating the technique involved. During the past 26 yr, cardiac transplantation has evolved from what was initiall
Deposition of atmospheric ions to pine branches and surrogate surfaces in the vicinity of emerald lake watershed, Sequoia National Park

Atmospheric dry deposition of ions to branches of native Pinus contorta and Pinus monticola (natural surfaces), and nylon filters and Whatman paper filters (surrogate surfaces) were measured in the summer of 1987 in the vicinity of Emerald Lake Watershed (ELW) of the Sequoia National Park located on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada in California. Deposition fluxes of airborne NO−3, NH+4 and SO2−4 to native pines at the ELW were much higher than in the eastern Sierra Nevada, but several times lower than deposition fluxes to natural and surrogate surfaces at the highly polluted site in the San Gabriel Mountains of southern California. Deposition fluxes of NO3− and NH4+ to the natural and surrogate surfaces at the ELW were much higher than deposition of SO42−, providing the importance of N compounds in atmospheric dry deposition in this part of the western U.S. A deficit of inorganic anions in materials deposited to various surfaces indicated a possibility of substantial participation of organic acids in atmospheric dry deposition processes. Nylon and paper filters proved to be poor surrogate surfaces for the estimation of ionic dry deposition to conifer branches.
Agonist-induced release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone and their associations with basal secretion of luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone throughout lactation in sows.

Our working hypothesis was that the normal increase in basal secretion of LH and FSH during lactation in sows is paralleled by an increase in readily releasable pools of GnRH, LH, and FSH. Sows fitted with indwelling catheters and nursing 9-11 piglets were sampled on Days 1, 7, 14, and 21 (primiparous sows; n = 10; experiment 1) or Days 7 and 21 (multiparous sows; n = 10; experiment 2) of lactation. On each day, blood was collected at 10-min intervals for 2 h before one member of a pair of sows was infused (i.v.) with saline (n = 5) and the other with the neuroexcitatory amino acid N-methyl-DL-aspartic acid (NMA; 10 mg/kg b.w.) to measure readily releasable GnRH as estimated by LH release. Two hours later, each sow that had received saline was given GnRH (100 ug, i.v.) for estimation of releasable pools of pituitary LH and FSH. Responses to NMA and GnRH were estimated by area under the curve (ng-ml-'.min) of serum LH profiles for 1 h (NMA group) or 2 h (GnRH group) after treatment. Basal LH secretion in primiparous sows decreased from Day 1 to Day 7 and then returned to Day 1 values by Day 21. Similarly, in multiparous sows, basal LH was lower on Day 7 than on Day 21. Basal FSH secretion increased linearly as lactation progressed in primiparous and multiparous sows. The NMA- and GnRH-induced LH responses diverged in primiparous sows; the NMA-induced LH response increased linearly from Day 1 to 21 whereas the GnRH-induced LH response increased from Day 1 to 7 and then decreased to similar values on Days 14 and 21. In multiparous sows, the NMA- and GnRH-induced responses were greater on Day 21 than on Day 7. Progesterone and estradiol-170 were greater (p < 0.01) on Day 1 than on any other day in primiparous sows; however, both steroids increased (p < 0.05) from early to late lactation in multiparous sows. These results are consistent with the concept that GnRH accumulates in axonal terminals but is released at a reduced rate during early lactation, thereby permitting increased synthesis and accumulation of LH. As lactation progresses, GnRH release rate increases, raising basal concentrations of LH and decreasing pituitary pools. Secretion of FSH differs from LH secretion in that it increases as lactation progresses without evidence of a strong inhibition by suckling.
Using Signal Detection Theory and Time Window-based Human-In-The-Loop simulation as a tool for assessing the effectiveness of different qualitative shapes in continuous monitoring tasks.

Abstract This paper provides a case study of Signal Detection Theory (SDT) as applied to a continuous monitoring dual-task environment. Specifically, SDT was used to evaluate the independent contributions of sensitivity and bias to different qualitative gauges used in process control. To assess detection performance in monitoring the gauges, we developed a Time Window-based Human-In-The-Loop (TWHITL) simulation bed. Through this test bed, we were able to generate a display similar to those monitored by console operators in oil and gas refinery plants. By using SDT and TWHITL, we evaluated the sensitivity, operator bias, and response time of flow, level, pressure, and temperature gauge shapes developed by Abnormal Situation Management ® (ASM ® ) Consortium ( www.asmconsortium.org ). Our findings suggest that display density influences the effectiveness of participants in detecting abnormal shapes. Furthermore, results suggest that some shapes elicit better detection performance than others.
Endogenous Testosterone Levels Do Not Affect Filarial Worm Burdens in Mice

Abstract Ganley, L., and Rajan, T. V. Endogenous testosterone levels do not affect filarial worm burdens in mice. Experimental Parasitology 98, 29–34. It has been observed for several years that males of many mammalian species exhibit higher prevalence and intensity of parasitic infections than females. It has been theorized that this sexual dichotomy may be due to the immunosupressive properties of testosterone. The administration of exogenous testosterone to laboratory animals often results in higher yields of several parasitic nematodes, lending credence to this hypothesis. We sought to determine if worm burdens in individual mice were related to serum testosterone concentrations. We found that in a cage of five male mice, one or two individuals exhibited high circulating testosterone levels, while the rest had low to undetectable levels. Serum testosterone did not correlate with worm recoveries. The implications of these findings are twofold. First, our data suggest that high endogenous testosterone does not necessarily decrease the ability of mice to resist nematode infection and second, that results obtained from administration of exogenous testosterone should be interpreted with caution.
Selection of Children for Residential Treatment

Abstract A questionnaire study of factors pertinent to patient selection in 39 children's residential institutions revealed a network of relations between extensiveness of evaluations and certain specific evaluation procedures on the one hand, and the length of time children remain in residence and the percentage of rejected applications for admission on the other. Our findings led us to consider the role of an emphasis on the family in evaluations and to questions of evaluation thoroughness and redundancy. Certain aspects of the decision-making process and its relation to other characteristics of the institutions were considered.
Compressive fracture processes in an alumina-glass composite

At atmospheric pressure, a commercial 85% alumina fails by granulation, breaking into small flakes and splinters with long dimensions parallel to the load axis. Replica transmission electron microscopy examination of polished surfaces on specimens loaded to 89% (or more) of the fracture stress reveals the formation of microcracks at crystal-glass interfaces subparallel to the load axis. Scanning microscopy of granulated samples indicates that pores in the material either initiate or channel the cracks which dissect the ceramic into small particles during granulation failures. Thus, the interpore spacing seems to be an important factor in the particle size distribution of the broken ceramic. In the faulting mode of failure, which occurs under confining pressure, the sliding faces of the ceramic are slickensided. However, most of the loose fracture particles do not display slickensides; in size and shape they resemble the powder produced by granulation failures. True “fault gouge” material, consisting of comminuted particles mashed together, tends to adhere to the fault faces. The gouge has a broad particle size distribution, including particles much finer than the interpore spacing of the ceramic. At the highest loading rate (0.81 sec–1 ) under atmospheric pressure, the particles produced by granulation fracture are slickensided and show evidence of either localized melting or plastic grooving induced by friction between adjacent particles.
Alteration of human neuroblastoma cell morphology and neurite extension with micropatterns

The spatial orientation of nerve cells plays a pivotal role in nerve regeneration. Here we report a new method for regulating neuronal cell morphology and guiding neurite extension on standard tissue culture dishes. Random copolymers of oligoethyleneglycol methacrylate and methacrylic acid [poly(OEGMA-co-MA)], microcontact printed on standard tissue culture dishes, resist cell attachment and remain intact in serum-containing medium for up to 2 weeks. Cell viability assay of SH-SY5Y cells demonstrated that poly(OEGMA-co-MA) on the substrate or in solution has no cytotoxic effect. When retinoic acid was added to SH-SY5Y cells, they extended neurites along the line patterns that are significantly longer than cells cultured on non-patterned culture dishes. The ability to guide neurite extension with micrometer precision is valuable for guiding directional growth of neurites and path finding of regenerating nerves.
Nitrate and nitrite in the surface waters of two delaware salt marshes

The distribution of nitrate and nitrite in two Delaware salt marshes was studied from July 1966 through December 1967. Canary Creek Marsh, located near the mouth of Delaware Bay, was characterized by high salinity, low nitrate water. The Murderkill Marsh, in central Delaware, was characterized by low salinity, high nitrate water. Man-made control structures in the Murderkill Marsh inhibited free tidal exchange and modified the distribution of nitrate and nitrite. Maximum nitrate concentrations occurred in the winter, while minimum concentrations were observed during the summer. Summer nitrate concentrations in the Canary Creek Marsh ranged from undetectable (<2 μg-at/1) to 8 μg-at/1. Winter values were generally between 10 and 25 μg-at/1. At the Murderkill Marsh winter nitrate concentrations ranged from 40 to 100 μg-at/1, and the summer concentrations were generally in the range of 5 to 20 μg-at/1. Nitrite concentrations in both areas rarely exceeded 1.5 μg-at/1, and exhibited no discernable seasonable pattern.
Electron microscopy of kinetochores in whole mount spreads of mitotic chromosomes from hela cells.

Kinetochores are demonstrated for the first time in mitotic chromosomes that have been spread on a hypophase and selectively contrasted. The kinetochores have comparable characteristics to those seen in thin sections.
“We ARE the Revolution”: Riot Grrrl Press, Girl Empowerment, and DIY Self-Publishing

Punk rock emerged in the late 20th century as a major disruptive force within both the established music scene and the larger capitalist societies of the industrial West. Punk was generally charact...
Accuracy of self-reported tobacco use in newly diagnosed cancer patients.

Purpose Accurate identification of tobacco use is critical to implement evidence-based cessation treatments in cancer patients. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the accuracy of self-reported tobacco use in newly diagnosed cancer patients.
Phosphoglucomutase polymorphism: an unusual type in Negroes.

PHOSPHOGLUCOMUTASE is present in human erythrocytes in different forms. Spencer et al.1 showed that polymorphism results from the inheritance of two autosomalallelic genes, PGM1 and PGM2. The homozygous state for PGM1 results in pattern 1, for PGM2 in pattern 2, and the doubly heterozygous state results in pattern 2–1. In the English population the gene frequencies for PGM1 and PGM2 are respectively 0.76 and 0.24.
Role Of Echocardiography In The Diagnosis Of Patients With Diastolic Heart Failure

Diastolic heart failure (DHF) is characterized by heart failure signs and symptoms in the presence of normal ejection fraction (EF). Since it is still debatable whether or not systolic properties are normal, the term "heart failure with normal EF" has been used to describe this syndrome.1 The diagnosis of DHF is based on the presence of three findings: clinical heart failure, normal or only mildly reduced EF, and diastolic dysfunction. Once the clinical criteria are met (pulmonary/systemic congestion), imaging can be used to satisfy the other two diagnostic components. Given its versatility, good reproducibility, and high feasibility, echocardiography is often the only modality needed to establish the diagnosis and guide therapeutic decisions. Investigators and clinicians can use echocardiography to reliably measure left ventricular (LV) volumes, mass, and EF.2 An EF of :a:50% is the cutoff recommended to identify DHF. The European guidelines1 also mandate the presence of a LV end diastolic volume index s.97 ml/m2 and an end systolic volume index s.49 ml/m2. The vast majority of DHF patients have concentric remodeling or hypertrophy and, rarely, eccentric LV hypertrophy. However, it should be noted that the presence of hypertrophy is not mandatory to establish the diagnosis.
Zinc acutely, selectively and reversibly inhibits pituitary prolactin secretion

Perifusion of dispersed female rat pituitary cells with medium containing 50 microM zinc acetate caused an acute, sustained and rapidly reversible inhibition of prolactin (Prl) secretion. This treatment had no influence on basal release of thyrotropin stimulating hormone (TSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) or growth hormone (GH). 50 microM Zn2+ also reversibly inhibited prolactin secretion stimulated by either 50 mM K+ or 10 nM TRH, but the secretion of GH, TSH and LH which was stimulated by 50 mM K+ or stimulation of TSH by 10 nM TRH was not inhibited. Thus zinc acts in a dynamic manner to selectively influence pituitary prolactin secretion.
Differentiation in vitro: Effects of Sephadex Fractions of Chick Embryo Extract

Chicken embryo extract has been fractionated into high-and low-molecular-weight components on Sephadex G-25. Media supplemented with the low-molecular-weight fraction (L) support full differentiation in clones of cartilage and of pigmented retina cells from chicken embryos. Growth rates of such cultures in L-supplemented media are greater than in media without embryo extract, and plating efficiencies are higher than in media with or without whole embryo extract. The high-molecular-weight fraction (H) in low concentrations also stimulates growth and plating efficiency, but inhibits the expression of differentiation.
EFFECTS OF RYANODINE ON CARDIAC CONTRACTION, EXCITATION-CONTRACTION COUPLING AND TREPPE IN THE CONSCIOUS DOG

Effects of ryanodine on left ventricular (LV) function and hemodynamics were studied in 16 conscious dogs, chronically instrumented for measurements of LV pressures and dimensions. Systemic infusion of ryanodine (0.5–4 μg/kg i.v.) resulted in a dose-dependent depression of cardiac contraction. For example, ryanodine, 4 μg/kg i.v., decreased LV fractional shortening by 30.5±4.1%, LV dP/dt by 41.5±4.0% and Vcfc by 37.8±4.1%, while increasing the isovolumic relaxation time constant, tau, from 23.1 ± 1.4 to 34.1 ± 3.6 ms without a major effect on preloaded or afterload. Ryanodine also depressed (P
In situ measurement of fish body length using perspective-based remote stereo-video

Abstract Size–frequency distributions provide important information on population-level processes in fishes, but for some non-commercial species the collection of length data through direct sampling may be unacceptably destructive. Although in situ measurement techniques based on photographic or video image analysis are non-destructive, these generally require diver-operated equipment and consequently are labor-intensive and limited in both working depth and deployment time. A remotely operated, continuously recording video measurement system is described which has a number of advantages over diver-operated equipment, particularly for uncommon species or when it is important that estimates of the size composition of a fish population be unbiased by observer presence. The described system bases measurements on perspective changes when objects are viewed from different distances and has less stringent alignment requirements than other stereo techniques that depend on the intersection of sight lines. Test measurements of PVC pipe sections carried by divers differed from actual values by an average of 1.6% when the pipe axis was in a plane approximately perpendicular to the camera axis. Replicate length measurements made on free-swimming Bluntnose Sixgill Sharks ( Hexanchus griseus ) also differed by an average 1.6%.
The Effect of Infant Formula Samples on Breastfeeding Practice

To determine whether infant formula samples affect breastfeeding practice, 95 breastfeeding mothers were randomly assigned to receive or not receive formula samples on discharge from a postpartum unit. Unaware of the specific nature of the study, these mothers were interviewed by telephone six to seven weeks postpartum by an investigator blind to the randomization status. Although more women who had discontinued breastfeeding were among the group who had received samples than those who had not received samples, the difference was not statistically significant. Significant differences were not found in three subgroups hypothesized to be more vulnerable to the samples: less educated women, primiparas, and women who were ill postpartum.
The pastoral care of preaching and the trauma of HIV and AIDS

There is within the history of Christian worship practices a long tradition of someone offering a sermon to those gathered for worship. The primary means for many Christians throughout the world of receiving Christian education and guidance is by listening to sermons. There is generally embedded in all Christian preaching some attempt on the part of the preacher to share a worldview based upon the his or her biblical and theological interpretation of the meaning of faith and their application to daily living. This article explores how the sermon can be a source of religious instruction and aspect of pastoral caring for those infected and affected by HIV and AIDS. The article also suggests that such sermons can be a form of advocating social justice for those who are stigmatized because of their HIV status. Note: The people mentioned in this article, are real but, their names, Rob, Inspiration and Pastor Able are fictitious for reasons of confidentiality. “My Africa is fading and no one sees or cares that it is happening.”
Synergistic Actions of Tailoring Enzymes in Pradimicin Biosynthesis

Three key tailoring enzymes in pradimicin biosynthesis: PdmJ, PdmW, and PdmN, were investigated. PdmW was characterized as the C-6 hydroxylase by structural characterization of the corresponding product, 6-hydroxy-G-2A. The efficiencies of the C-5 and C-6 hydroxylations, catalyzed respectively by PdmJ and PdmW, were low when they were expressed individually with the early biosynthetic enzymes that form G-2A. When these two cytochrome P450 enzymes were co-expressed, a dihydroxylated product, 5,6-dihydroxy-G-2A, was efficiently produced, indicating that these two enzymes work synergistically in pradimicin biosynthesis. Heterologously expressed PdmN in Streptomyces coelicolor CH999 converted G-2A to JX137a by ligating a unit of D-alanine to the carboxyl group. PdmN has relaxed substrate specificity toward both amino acid donors and acceptors. Through combinatorial biosynthesis, a series of new pradimicin analogues were produced.
Consumer‐Client Orientation and Public Service Marketing

Explores the development of consumer orientation in private sector marketing, and goes on to consider the meaning of consumer‐clientele orientation in public service marketing. Suggests explanations for how consumer‐client orientation is oriented in public service marketing. Recommends general approaches for facilitating consumer‐client orientation in public service marketing.
Power Efficient LDPC-Coded Modulation for Free-Space Optical Communication over the Atmospheric Turbulence Channel

We describe a power efficient transmission scheme based on LDPC-coded modulation. This technique is suitable for use in hybrid RF/microwave-free-space optical communications operating under the strong atmospheric turbulence, and provides an excellent coding gain.
Effects of racial prejudice and race of target on aggression

Three studies were conducted to investigate the relationship between prejudice and physical aggression using the competitive reaction time paradigm. In Study 1, high and low prejudiced subjects competed against either a black or white opponent. The race of the opponent did not differentially affect the aggressive behavior of either high or low prejudiced subjects. In Study 2, high prejudiced subjects were confronted with a competitor who behaved in a nonaggressive fashion. Under these conditions, the high prejudiced subjects attacked the black target more than the white target. In Study 3, high prejudiced subjects competed against an opponent who communicated nonaggressive intentions. The subjects behaved in a nonaggressive manner toward both the black and the white target. It was proposed that prejudice facilitates indiscriminate aggression in the presence of a clear threat and selective aggression in the presence of ambiguous threat.
Phytochrome-mediated Carotenoids Biosynthesis in Ripening Tomatoes

Red light induced and far red light inhibited carotenoid biosynthesis in ripening tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) when compared to controls kept in the dark. Red illumination following far red illumination reversed the inhibitory action of far red light on carotenoid biosynthesis, suggesting a phytochrome-mediated process. Quantitation of individual carotenoids favored the hypothesis of two separate carotenoid biosynthetic pathways in tomatoes.
Age reporting among white Americans aged 85+: Results of a record linkage study

This study investigates age reporting on the death certificates of older white Americans. We link a sample of death certificates for native-born whites aged 85+ in 1985 to Social Security Administration records and to records of the U.S. censuses of 1900, 1910, and 1920. When ages in these sources are compared, inconsistencies are found to be minimal, even beyond age 95. Results show little distortion and no systematic biases in the reported age distribution of deaths. To explore the effect of age misreporting on old-age mortality, we estimate “corrected” age-specific death rates by the extinct-generation method for the U.S. white cohort born in 1885. With few exceptions, corrected and uncorrected rates in single years differ by less than 3% and are not systematically biased. When we compare corrected rates with those for the same birth cohort in France, Japan, and Sweden, we find that white American mortality at older ages is exceptionally low.
An indoor S-band radar receive array testbed

This paper describes a multi-channel S-band radar receive system designed as a laboratory testbed system for studying wideband radar array signal processing. The receive array was designed using a combination of low-cost commercial-of-the-shelf components and a custom-designed surface-mount printed circuit board assembly. It has been tested using LFM-CW waveforms with a center frequency of 2.4 GHz and a bandwidth of 600 MHz. By using components manufactured to operate in the “Wi-Fi” wireless communications band, the cost of the system has been minimized. This paper presents the design of the system, test results, and some sample ARD surfaces from the system.
Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating Factor Reactivates Human Cytomegalovirus in a Latently Infected Humanized Mouse Model

Summary Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in organ transplant recipients. The use of granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF)-mobilized stem cells from HCMV seropositive donors is suggested to double the risk of late-onset HCMV disease and chronic graft-versus-host disease in recipients when compared to conventional bone marrow transplantation with HCMV seropositive donors, although the etiology of the increased risk is unknown. To understand mechanisms of HCMV transmission in patients receiving G-CSF-mobilized blood products, we generated a NOD- scid IL2Rγ c null -humanized mouse model in which HCMV establishes latent infection in human hematopoietic cells. In this model, G-CSF induces the reactivation of latent HCMV in monocytes/macrophages that have migrated into organ tissues. In addition to establishing a humanized mouse model for systemic and latent HCMV infection, these results suggest that the use of G-CSF mobilized blood products from seropositive donors pose an elevated risk for HCMV transmission to recipients.
Self-Forgiveness and Hypersexual Behavior

In this chapter, we explore the role of self-forgiveness in hypersexual behavior. Hypersexual behavior, also known as sexual addiction, sexual compulsivity, and sexual impulsivity, involves sexual thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are excessive, difficult to control, and cause distress and problems in a person’s life. It is theorized that individuals engage in hypersexual behavior in response to dysphoric mood states (e.g., depression, anxiety). Although hypersexual behavior alleviates the dysphoric mood states temporarily, the relief is time-limited, and is often accompanied by feelings of guilt and shame, prompting individuals to re-engage in the sexual behavior. Self-forgiveness may play a role in alleviating dysphoric mood states and maladaptive shame and guilt, providing hope for individuals dealing with hypersexual behavior. We present a model for how self-forgiveness can reduce shame, guilt, and hypersexual behavior, adduce evidence supporting the model, and present an agenda for future research.
Discriminative stimulus effects of centrally administered isoproterenol in rats: mediation by beta-1 adrenergic receptors.

Rationale: Centrally active beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic agonists produce antidepressant-like effects in several behavioral tests, suggesting that these receptors may be involved in the mediation of the effects of antidepressant drugs. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the ability of intra-cerebral ventricular (ICV) isoproterenol to produce discriminative stimulus effects mediated by beta adrenergic receptors, establishing a reliable model of in vivo activation of central beta adrenergic receptors. Methods: Rats were trained to discriminate the non-selective beta adrenergic agonist isoproterenol (10 µg ICV) from artificial cerebral spinal fluid (aCSF) using a water-reinforced two-lever operant task [fixed ratio-10 schedule of reinforcement (FR10)]. For substitution and antagonism tests, drugs were administered IP. Results: Following acquisition of the discrimination, ICV isoproterenol produced dose-related increases in drug-appropriate responding (ED50=1.14 µg). The beta-1 selective adrenergic agonist dobutamine fully substituted for isoproterenol at a dose of 0.3 mg/kg (ED50=0.15 mg/kg). By contrast, the beta-2 selective adrenergic agonist clenbuterol produced 20% isoproterenol-appropriate responding when administered at doses up to 0.1 mg/kg. The beta adrenergic antagonist propranolol fully antagonized the isoproterenol cue at a dose of 0.03 mg/kg (ID50=0.013 mg/kg). The beta-1 selective antagonist betaxolol (ID50=0.03 mg/kg) more potently antagonized isoproterenol's cue than did the beta-2 selective antagonist ICI 118,551 (ID50=0.41 mg/kg). The antidepressant desipramine (1.0 mg/kg) substituted for isoproterenol. Conclusions: These results demonstrate that the discriminative stimulus effects of isoproterenol are mediated primarily via beta-1 adrenergic receptors. This provides a functional model for activation of central beta-1 adrenergic receptors, permitting further characterization of the role of this receptor subtype in the mechanism of action of antidepressant drugs.
Solid-State Voltammetry in a Polyether-Tailed Co Tris(Bipyridine) Molten Salt: Ion Pairing Effects

This paper describes experiments exploring the role of the redox-inactive counterion in hybrid redox polyether molten salts. Because these materials are undiluted, they intrinsically contain “solve...
BMI, waist circumference, and selected cardiovascular disease risk factors among preschool-age children

In adults, overweight is often associated with other cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors. We determined whether these associations were also present in young children. This study examined the relationships between elevated BMI (≥85th and ≥95th percentiles for age and sex) and the highest quintile of waist circumference (WC) with CVD risk factors, including fasting triglyceride (TGL), high- and low-density lipoprotein (HDL and LDL), total cholesterol (TC), non-HDL cholesterol, and C-reactive protein (CRP) in 3,644 3- to 6-year-old children included in the 1999–2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES). Results showed that 20% (highest quintile) of the sample had a TC >170 mg/dl, LDL >109 mg/dl, TGL >103 mg/dl, non-HDL >128 mg/dl, CRP >0.13 mg/dl, WC >57.2 cm, and HDL <42 mg/dl. Increased BMI and WC were associated with increased CRP levels in non-Hispanic black boys and girls, Hispanic boys, and non-Hispanic white girls, whereas elevated TGL and non-HDL cholesterol and low HDL cholesterol were generally associated with elevated BMI and WC in Hispanic children. TC and LDL cholesterol were not significantly associated with elevated weight in 3- to 6-year-olds. BMI and WC were similar in predicting the same risk factors. In summary, this analysis shows that in preschool-age children, greater BMI and WC are associated with biomarkers that are related to CVD risk, but these associations vary by ethnicity. Child health providers should consider using both BMI and WC to identify young children who may be at risk for elevated CVD biomarkers.
Methodologies for aggregating large hierarchical simulation models

This research investigates how aggregation is currently conducted for simulation of large systems. The focus is on the exploration of the different aggregation techniques for hierarchical lower-level (higher resolution) models into the next higher-level. We develop aggregation procedures between two simulation levels (e.g., aggregation of mission level models into a campaign level model) to address how much and what information needs to pass from the high-resolution to the low-resolution model in order to preserve statistical fidelity. We present a mathematical representation of the simulation model based on network theory and procedures for simulation aggregation that are logical and executable. The proposed process is a collection of various conventional statistical and aggregation techniques, but we present them in a coherent and systematic manner. Our desired real-world application for the developed simulation aggregation process is in the area of military combat. We show preliminary results as applied to a complex hierarchical flying training model. There is no best universal aggregation technique for different simulation models; however, the method developed here is a well-defined set of procedures for statistically sound simulation model aggregation.
Dermatological applications of high-frequency ultrasound

Advances in ultrasound transducer technology can lead to improvements in the assessment of skin disease. In clinical research, noninvasive methods of assessing skin structure in both health and disease are clearly needed. Ultrasound imaging of the skin before and after treatment can add an important objective assessment in the clinical evaluation of new therapeutic agents that are designed to reverse disease-induced changes in the skin. The goal of this paper is to review the current applications and drawbacks of ultrasound technology in the evaluation of skin disease. Current applications of transducer technology in dermatology include assessment of tissue edema and wound healing as well as imaging of skin thickness to evaluate diseases such as psoriasis, morphea, scleroderma, and panniculitis. An important application of ultrasound transducer technology is the measurement of tumor thickness and volume in skin cancers such as melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. A major impediment to progress in this area has been an inability to adequately resolve epidermal structures with currently available devices such as 20- and 40-MHz transducers. With these devices it is difficult to distinguish between hypoechoic structures such as tumors, nevi, sebaceous glands and hair follicles. In order to investigate the epidermis both the lateral and axial resolution of current devices need to be improved. Promising results have been obtained with a 40-MHz ultrasound backscatter microscope (UBM) wherein changes in the thickness of psoriasis plaques have been noted following treatment. Improved resolution of epidermal structures such as eccrine sweat ducts and epidermal cell layers has been reported using a 100-MHz ultrasound backscatter microscope. Improved resolution of epidermal and dermal structures is one of the goals for the development of future transducers.
Ethical issues in redefining death

This discussion has presented an introduction to a philosophic debate about definitions of death. It is not intended to provide concrete answers to dilemmas confronting neuroscience nurses, but perhaps will spark further thoughts about the arguments described.
Direct and Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Chromium(V) Oxidation of Deoxyribose in Single-Stranded and Double-Stranded Calf Thymus DNA

Oxidative DNA damage by a model Cr(V) complex, [CrO(ehba)2]-, with and without added H2O2, was investigated for the formation of base and sugar products derived from C1', C4', and C5' hydrogen atom abstraction mechanisms. EPR studies with 5,5-dimethylpyrroline N-oxide (DMPO) have shown that Cr(V)-ehba alone can oxidize the spin trap via a direct chromium pathway, whereas reactions of Cr(V)-ehba in the presence of H2O2 generated the hydroxyl radical. Direct (or metal-centered) Cr(V)-ehba oxidation of single-stranded (ss) and double-stranded (ds) calf thymus DNA demonstrated the formation of thiobarbituric acid-reactive species (TBARS) and glycolic acid in an O2-dependent manner, consistent with abstraction of the C4' H atom. A minor C1' H atom abstraction mechanism was also observed for direct Cr(V) oxidation of DNA, but no C5' H atom abstraction product was observed. Direct Cr(V) oxidation of ss- and ds-DNA also caused the release of all four nucleic acid bases with a preference for the pyrimidines cytosine and thymine in ds-DNA, but no base release preference was observed in ss-DNA. This base release was O2-independent and could not be accounted for by the H atom abstraction mechanisms in this study. Reaction of Cr(V)-ehba with H2O2 and DNA yielded products consistent with all three DNA oxidation pathways measured, namely, C1', C4', and C5' H atom abstractions. Cr(V)-ehba and H2O2 also mediated a nonpreferential release of DNA bases with the exception of the oxidatively sensitive purine, guanine. Direct and H2O2-induced Cr(V) DNA oxidation had opposing substrate preferences, with direct Cr(V) oxidation favoring ss-DNA while H2O2-induced Cr(V) oxidative damage favored ds-DNA. These results may help explain the carcinogenic mechanism of chromium(VI) and serve to highlight the differences and similarities in DNA oxidation between high-valent chromium and oxygen-based radicals.
New single-phase 4-motor equipments for A-C multiple-unit transit cars

Promising appreciable savings in maintenance costs, this equipment has some features new to a-c rapid-transit car design. A truck-mounted motor drives each axle and a cam-operated controller operates the resistance acceleration.
Leptin signaling in the dorsomedial hypothalamus and its role in feeding circuits.

Leptin, an adipocyte-derived hormone, is well known to act in the hypothalamus to reduce food intake and deficiency of leptin signaling leads to morbid obesity, hyperphagia and disturbed thermoregulation. Many hypothalamic sites express leptin receptors (LRb), however, our knowledge about the role of these different target sites in the regulation of food intake is very limited. The dorsomedial hypothalamus (DMH) shows abundant expression of LRb and robust signaling in response to leptin. Using a cre/loxP system to express a virus driven EGFPf in distinct hypothalamic sites we were able to study the projection fields specifically of DMH/LRb neurons throughout the brain. Consistent with known roles of the DMH in the regulation of stress responses and food intake we found DMH/LRb projections in according areas like the bed nucleus of stria terminalis, the medial preoptic area, raphe pallidus, paraventricular nucleus and arcuate nucleus (ARC). Interestingly, LRb neurons in the DMH are densely innervated by orexigenic (AgRP) and anorexigenic (CART) fibers that likely originate from the ARC and are known to co-express LRb, suggesting a reciprocal regulation of the ARC/LRb and DMH/LRb system.
Diagnosis of fungal infection: new technologies for the mycology laboratory

The dramatic increase in nosocomial invasive mycoses over the past two decades has led to increased interest in the area of antifungal development. Unfortunately, the infusion of new diagnostic technology into the clinical mycology laboratory has lagged behind. Although newer, automated, continuous-monitoring blood culture systems are as sensitive as the older, manual "gold standard" system, the recovery of fungi from blood, as well as other clinical specimens, remains an insensitive marker for invasive fungal infection. Antigen assays for the rapid diagnosis of invasive fungal infections are in development, and galactomannan and glucan are two such promising antigens. Glucan may be present in the blood of patients with infection secondary to a wide variety of fungal pathogens, including Candida, Aspergillus, Fusarium, Saccharomyces, Trichosporon and Acremonium species. Early data suggest galactomannan may be present in the blood in detectable levels very early in the course of invasive aspergillosis. The galactomannan assay currently undergoing evaluations may actually be positive prior to the clinical suspicion for infection and may be useful in monitoring therapeutic response as well; however, the etiology of false-positive results following cytotoxic chemotherapy still has to be elucidated. PCR assays are also being developed in the research laboratory, however, the PCR assays will require a significant amount of adaptation and validation before they are ready for clinical care. Well-planned studies to evaluate the performance characteristics as well as appropriate clinical and cost-effective application of these new tests are needed.
A Dante Note--Smeraldo

THE smeraldi before which Dante is placed in the terrestrial paradise (Purg., xxxi.116) are the eyes of Beatrice, as most commentators agree.' But many modern commentators have taken smeraldi as synonymous with precious gems rather than the particular gem smaragdus or smeraldo, whose properties are described in the mediaeval lapidaries.2 Of the fourteenth-century commentators, only the Ottimo mentions the properties of the smeraldo, and even here the editor Alessandro Torri adds in a note: 'Questa chiosa pare giunta di men abile Comentatore.'3 Yet the properties of the emerald as described in the lapidaries have a direct bearing on the passage in question. Lombardi4 refers us to the treatment of the gem in Pliny's Natural History, where the passage reads as follows: 'nullius coloris aspectus incundior (read iucundior) est. nam herbas quoque silentes frondesque avide spectamus, smaragdos vero tanto libentius, quoniam nihil omnino viridius conparatum illis viret. praeterea soli gemmarum contuitu inplent oculos nec satiant. quin et ab intentione alia aspectu smaragdi recreatur acies, scalpentibusque gemmas non alia gratior oculorum refectio est: ita viridi lenitate lassitudinem mulcent.'5 The treatment is repeated more briefly in the epitome of Pliny written by Solinus,6 and even less completely for this purpose in the Origines of Isidor of Seville,7 the dictionary of Papias,8 the Magnae derivationes of Uguccione da Pisa,9 or the Catholicon of Giovanni da Genova.'0 The difficulty which arises in tracing the source to Pliny is that Dante nowhere betrays any direct knowledge of this author." Likewise, we cannot trace Dante's knowledge of precious stones to the dictionaries of Papias, Uguccione da Pisa, or Giovanni da Genova, as Paget Toynbee tends to indicate,'2 at least in so far as smaradgus is concerned.
Evidence for Negative Frequency-Dependent Selection During Experimental Coevolution of a Freshwater Snail and a Sterilizing Trematode

Host–parasite coevolution is often suggested as a mechanism for maintaining genetic diversity, but finding direct evidence has proven difficult. In the present study, we examine the process of coevolution using a freshwater New Zealand snail (Potamopyrgus antipodarum) and its common parasite (the sterilizing trematode, Microphallus sp.) Specifically, we test for changes in genotypic composition of clonal host populations in experimental populations evolving either with or without parasites for six generations. As predicted under the Red Queen model of coevolution, the initially most common host genotype decreased in frequency in the presence, but not the absence, of parasitism. Furthermore, the initially most common host genotype became more susceptible to infection by the coevolving parasite populations over the course of the experiment. These results are consistent with parasitemeditated selection leading to a rare advantage, and they indicate rapid coevolution at the genotypic level between a host and its parasite.
Recessed polysilicon encapsulated local oxidation

Local oxidation of silicon (LOCOS) is the most commonly used isolation technology in silicon integrated circuits. The inherently large field oxide encroachment associated with LOCOS severely limits scalability. Recessed polysilicon encapsulated local oxidation (recessed PELOX) is demonstrated to achieve both low encroachment and increased field oxide recess. These benefits are obtained without sacrificing process simplicity or defectivity as evidenced by excellent gate oxide and diode quality. >
The Sceptical Paradox and the Nature of the Self

In interpretation, understanding does not become something different. It becomes itself. Such interpretation is grounded existentially in understanding; the latter does not arise from the former. – Martin Heidegger, Being and Time, §32 In the present article, I attempt to relate Saul Kripke's “sceptical paradox” to some issues about the self; specifically, the relation between the self and its mental states and episodes. I start with a brief reconstruction of the paradox, and venture to argue that it relies crucially on a Cartesian model of the self: the sceptic regards the Wittgensteinian “infinite regress of interpretation” as the foundation of his challenge, and this is where he commits the crucial mistake. After the diagnosis, I attempt to sketch my own model of the self and its mental states and episodes. This tentative picture binds meaning and the self together, stressing the subjective aspect of meaning without committing the same fallacy. The solution ventured here is relatively independent of the secondary literatures on the sceptical paradox of following rules, for it aims to provide a new angle to understand and meet the challenge presented by the sceptic.
Sample Collection, Processing, and Storage for Large-Scale Studies: Biorepositories to Support Cancer Research

The use of biomarkers in cancer research is rapidly advancing, with applications of biomarkers to studies of cancer etiology, detection, treatment, and prognosis. Due to the use of biomarkers for cancer research, there is growing recognition of the value of biospecimen banks. Specimen banks may
Inverted Pendulum Control System Based on GA Optimization

A kind of new GA is put forward by this paper, that calculate way satisfies the control demand of the inverted pendulum. Adopt the gene to carry out the evolution operation for the unit. Cross with the average Euclid distance of the gene control gene with the variation. Adopt the phase margin is the function of penalty that one adaptive degree calculate. Guaranteed the calculate way don't sink into the part to refrain from rash action. Considered the index sign of time domain and robustness of the system to unify at the same time. The good result is through certificated. Applied in the actual engineering by the inverted pendulum PD control parameter that based on the new SAGA acquires excellent results.