cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Vitamin D in follicular development and oocyte maturation.

Vitamin D (VD) is a secosteroid hormone synthesized predominantly in the skin upon ultraviolet light exposure, which can also be obtained from dietary sources. In target cells, the bioactive VD binds to specific VD receptor to regulate downstream transcription of genes that are involved in a wide range of cellular processes. There is increasing recognition that the proper physiological levels of VD are critical for optimizing reproductive potential in women. The direct VD action in the ovary was first suggested in the 1980s. Since then, research has attempted to determine the role of VD in follicular development and oocyte maturation in animal models and clinical settings. However, data published to date are inconclusive due to the complexity in VD metabolism and the fact that VD actions are pervasive in regulating physiological functions in various systems, including the reproductive, endocrine and nervous systems that control reproduction. This review summaries in vitro, in vivo, and clinical evidence regarding VD metabolism and signaling in the ovary, as well as VD-regulated or VD-associated ovarian follicular development, steroidogenic function, and oocyte maturation. It is suggested that adequate animal models are needed for well-controlled studies to unravel molecular mechanisms of VD action in the ovary. For clinical studies, follicular development and function may be evaluated more effectively in a relatively homogeneous patient population under a well-controlled experimental design. A comprehensive understanding of VD-regulated folliculogenesis and oogenesis will provide critical insight into the impact of VD in female reproductive health.
Adequacy of prenatal care and stillbirth.

BACKGROUND There is limited literature on adequacy of prenatal care during pregnancy especially in case of stillbirth. METHODS This retrospective study consisted of 103 patients with stillbirths and 197 patients with live births. The adequacy of prenatal care utilization index (APNCU) was used to determine prenatal care adequacy. [Canadian Task Force classification II-2]. RESULTS Among high-risk patients, the APNCU categories of inadequate (OR:3.81, 95% CI:1.16, 12.57, p<0.05) and adequate plus (OR:2.58, 95% CI:1.23, 5.38, p<0.05) were each significantly associated with greater odds for stillbirth. Diabetes, multifetal gestations, and fetal anomalies were each significantly associated with increased odds for stillbirth. CONCLUSIONS Our findings emphasize the importance of clinicians in the role of providing appropriate prenatal care in the prevention of stillbirth. Clinicians also should realize that even with the best care approach of adequate plus prenatal care, certain high-risk patients will still be at risk for stillbirth.
The Applications of Implementation Science in Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Research and Practice.

Background: Delivery of high quality, at-scale, and sustained services is a major challenge in the water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) sector, made more challenging by a dearth of evidence-based ...
Applying Automated Program Repair to Dataflow Programming Languages

Dataflow programming languages are used in a variety of settings, and defects in their programs can have serious consequences. However, prior work in automated program repair (APR) emphasizes control flow over dataflow languages. We identify three impediments to the use of APR in dataflow programming—parallelism, state, and evaluation—and highlight opportunities for overcoming them.
The key to maximizing the benefits of antimicrobial and self-cleaning coatings is to fully determine their risks

Antimicrobial and self-cleaning nanomaterial coatings have attracted significant research attention in recent years due to the growing global threat of infectious diseases, the emergence of new diseases such as COVID-19, and increases in healthcare-associated infections. Although there are many reportedly successful coating technologies, the evaluation of antimicrobial performance is primarily conducted under simple laboratory conditions without adequate testing under real environmental conditions that reflect practical use and more importantly, reveal unintended outcomes. Furthermore, there is no standardized evaluation methodology to assess the long-term stability or the consequences associated with coating deterioration, such as the ecological impacts of nanomaterials or the proliferation of antibiotic-resistant bacteria/genes. In this review, we propose a precautionary framework that integrates a rigorous assessment of potential risks and limitations of nanomaterial coatings for antimicrobial applications as intrinsic to a comprehensive evaluation of their benefits. In addition, we summarize some emerging coating technologies as promising strategies to minimize unintended risks and enhance performance.
Ordering of Fuzzy k-Partitions

We study the possibility of comparison of nonhierarchical fuzzy partitions by partial order relation defined on the set P fko consisting of the partitions of n objects into k clusters (k-partitions). We introduce some conditions that should be satisfied by a reasonable relation of partial order on P fko . We give several examples of partial ordering of fuzzy k-partitions and we discuss their properties.
Chapter 10 Wage determinants: A survey and reinterpretation of human capital earnings functions

Publisher Summary The chapter presents a survey and exposition of the development of the earnings function as an empirical tool for the analysis of the determinants of wage rates. Generically, the term “earnings function” has come to mean any regression of individual wage rates or earnings on a vector of personal, market, and environmental variables thought to influence the wage. The premier application is to the study of the effects of investment in schooling and on-the-job training on the level, pattern, and interpersonal distribution of life cycle earnings associated with the pioneering work on human capital by several mentioned scholars. The chapter is devoted to the theoretical and empirical development of the human capital earnings function during the past 25 years. The chapter surveys the empirical estimates of the rate of return to education and the pattern of life cycle earnings. The chapter discusses the derivation of human capital earnings functions under the assumption of homogenous human capital and introduces the model of heterogeneous human capital described. The chapter considers theoretical and econometric issues, which arise when there is inequality of opportunity and ability and closes with a discussion of empirical findings concerning ability bias. The chapter also describes some recent literature on several topics such as signalling, implicit contracts, and specific human capital, which extend or modify certain aspects of the human capital model.
A physically based human figure model with a complex foot and low level behavior control

Advances in computer hardware and software technology allow the simulation of natural phenomena in increasing levels of complexity. This thesis is concerned with simulating the articulated movements of humans using the laws of physical motion, and contributes to the fields of computer animation and biomechanics. A 90 degree of freedom model of a human figure is developed, and an efficient dynamic simulator is employed to create and analyze physically based, computer generated motions. The foot of the simulated human figure has been modeled with a significant amount of kinematic complexity, with 28 degrees of freedom per foot. A joint-level control layer uses springs and dampers to control postures and movements. A framework for higher level control is implemented, although specific tasks require tailored control strategies. Several example tasks are simulated and described, including maintaining stable standing postures, rising on the toes, and reaching with the arm to designated targets. A simulation of the stepping phase of walking is developed, using passive dynamic effects to generate much of the motion. Together, the simulator and biomechanical model create a framework which can be used to address problems in computer animation and biomechanical research, and eventually, in a clinical setting, to assist doctors in analyzing the problems of specific patients. (Copies available exclusively from MIT Libraries, Rm. 14-0551, Cambridge, MA 02139-4307. Ph. 617-253-5668; Fax 617-253-1690.)
Short-distance analysis for heavy-quark systems: (II). Applications

Abstract We apply the methodology of the operator product expansion to a number of processes involving the coupling of heavy quark-anti-quark mesons to light hadrons. Our methods apply to on-shell scattering processes and transitions, but they are strictly valid only when the quark masses are very heavy (of order 25 GeV). In this regime, however, we derive color gauge theory predictions for heavy meson-proton total cross sections, exclusive photoproduction, and Zweig-forbidden hadronic transitions; these heavy-quark computations are then used to estimate the corresponding quantities in the ϕ and Y systems. We discuss also the long-range interaction between two heavy-quark mesons.
Pension Welfare Under the Pre-Funded PAYGO-system of Social Protection in an Arrow-Romer Economy and the Pareto-Efficiency

In 2-OLG model with two types of workers and with Pension Program having PAYGO and funded Defined Contribution (DC) parts the parametric conditions for possibility of Pareto-improvement are established (through the action of certain Piguvian-like tax).
Medication storage temperatures on U.S. ambulances: Exposures of varying durations and the effects of a simple stock-rotation scheme

(2004). MEDICATION STORAGE TEMPERATURES ON U.S. AMBULANCES: EXPOSURES OF VARYING DURATIONS AND THE EFFECTS OF A SIMPLE STOCK-ROTATION SCHEME. Prehospital Emergency Care: Vol. 8, No. 1, pp. 83-83.
Microbial community composition and growth rates in the NW Pacific during spring 2002

[1] The IOC North Pacific expedition in spring (May 2002) sailed from Osaka, Japan, to Honolulu, Hawaii, and surveyed the region from roughly 22 to 50°N and 147°E to 158°W. Nine stations were chosen to characterize three distinct water masses, as well as their boundary regions: the Kuroshio Current, the North Pacific subarctic gyre, and the North Pacific subtropical gyre. Grazing largely balanced growth at all stations, with an average net growth rate of 0.11 ± 0.16 d−1 (cell-based) and 0.06 ± 0.15 d−1 (chlorophyll-based). The stations could be distinguished, however, by phytoplankton community composition and growth response to nutrient additions (ammonium, phosphate, manganese, and iron). Nutrients were undetectable in surface waters of the Kuroshio Current, where a centric diatom-dominated bloom showed a significant growth response to added nutrients. Iron limitation was observed for the cyanobacteria Synechococcus at the two subarctic gyre stations; however, the photosynthetic eukaryotes, which dominated the photosynthetic biomass at these stations, were not nutrient-limited. Four oligotrophic subtropical gyre stations were dominated by photosynthetic bacteria (Prochlorococcus and Synechococcus) and small (<5 μm) eukaryotic autotrophs, which exhibited a dramatic increase in growth rate with macronutrient additions but displayed little or no increased growth with iron additions alone. Overall, the ratio of heterotroph consumer biomass to autotroph biomass was higher in the Prochlorococcus-dominated subtropical gyre sites (0.5) than the subarctic or Kuroshio Current sites (0.2–0.3).
In a Dream of the Locust

Silence green and filling with wind. Into the core where the eye was born in darkness Blessed in a fugue of pulsations Ivory beginnings returned The mountain laurel reached its peak in the acidic shale We cannot help noticing what makes us disappear We cannot help believing in the silence that made us Out of the great death that emptied us Squirming in a bucket of song and laughter. Where did such a sound find a beginning Where did such a beginning find a sound To claim and name itself. A pulsation that cannot help itself Even as we are carried in our machines To the ends of our tissue, the ends of o r matter. Soon we will not fear the end of things Soon the locust will reverse itself in our sleep.
From novice to master surgeon: improving feedback with a descriptive approach to intraoperative assessment

Abstract Background A developmental and descriptive approach to assessing trainee intraoperative performance was explored. Methods Semistructured interviews with 20 surgeon educators were recorded, transcribed, deidentified, and analyzed using a grounded theory approach to identify emergent themes. Two researchers independently coded the transcripts. Emergent themes were also compared to existing theories of skill acquisition. Results Surgeon educators characterized intraoperative surgical performance as an integrated practice of multiple skill categories and included anticipating, planning for contingencies, monitoring progress, self-efficacy, and “working knowledge.” Comments concerning progression through stages, broadly characterized as “technician,” “anatomist,” “anticipator,” “strategist,” and “executive,” formed a narrative about each stage of development. Conclusions The developmental trajectory with narrative, descriptive profiles of surgeons working toward mastery provide a standardized vocabulary for communicating feedback, while fostering reflection on trainee progress. Viewing surgical performance as integrated practice rather than the conglomerate of isolated skills enhances authentic assessment.
Increased Failure Rates After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction With Soft-Tissue Autograft-Allograft Hybrid Grafts

Purpose To compare the rate of failure between a group of patients who underwent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with an autograft-allograft hybrid soft-tissue graft and a matched group of patients who underwent ACL reconstruction with hamstring autograft. Methods From 2007 to 2012, 29 patients underwent hybrid ACL reconstruction performed by 4 fellowship-trained sports medicine surgeons at a single institution. Patients who underwent ACL reconstruction with hamstring autograft comprised the control group and were matched to patients in the hybrid group by sex, age, date of surgery, reconstruction technique, and method of femoral fixation. Graft failure was defined as revision ACL reconstruction or complete graft rupture on magnetic resonance imaging. Graft compromise was defined as magnetic resonance imaging evidence of partial graft rupture or arthroscopically identified partial graft rupture. Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale and International Knee Documentation Committee scores were obtained. Results Both groups included 10 men and 19 women, with a mean postoperative follow-up period of 44.4 ± 16.9 months in the hybrid group and 48.0 ± 15.2 months in the control group. Follow-up was obtained in 25 of 29 patients (86.2%) in the hybrid group, and each was matched to 1 patient who received hamstring autograft. The failure rate was 13.8% (4 of 29 patients) in the hybrid group compared with 3.4% (1 of 29) in the control group ( P = .160). An additional 27.6% of hybrid group patients (7 of 29) had compromised grafts as defined earlier, as compared with 1 (3.4%) of the control patients ( P = .022). Thus the overall hybrid graft failure/compromise rate was 37.9% (11 of 29) compared with 6.9% (2 of 29) for the hamstring autograft group ( P = .005). In the hybrid group, the Lysholm score (80.2 ± 12.1) was significantly lower than that in the control autograft ACL group (89.9 ± 11.8) ( P = .030). The International Knee Documentation Committee score for the hybrid ACL group (71.26 ± 19.5) was significantly worse than that for the autograft ACL group (85.7 ± 13.0) ( P = .012). Conclusions Allograft-autograft hybrid hamstring ACL grafts fail or become structurally compromised at a higher rate than matched autograft hamstring controls. Level of Evidence Level III, retrospective comparative study.
The bZIP transactivator of Epstein-Barr virus, BZLF1, functionally and physically interacts with the p65 subunit of NF-kappa B.

Abstract The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) BZLF1 (Z) immediate-early transactivator initiates the switch between latent and productive infection in B cells. The Z protein, which has homology to the basic leucine zipper protein c-Fos, transactivates the promoters of several replicative cycle proteins. Transactivation efficiency of the EBV BMRF1 promoter by Z is cell type dependent. In B cells, in which EBV typically exists in a latent form, Z activates the BMRF1 promoter inefficiently. We have discovered that the p65 component of the cellular factor NF-kappa B inhibits transactivation of several EBV promoters by Z. Furthermore, the inhibitor of NF-kappa B, I kappa B alpha, can augment Z-induced transactivation in the B-cell line Raji. Using glutathione S-transferase fusion proteins and coimmunoprecipitation studies, we demonstrate a direct interaction between Z and p65. This physical interaction, which requires the dimerization domain of Z and the Rel homology domain of p65, can be demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo. Inhibition of Z transactivation function by NF-kappa B p65, or possibly by other Rel family proteins, may contribute to the inefficiency of Z transactivator function in B cells and may be a mechanism of maintaining B-cell-specific viral latency.
Relation of body mass index to asthma and atopy in children: the National Health and Nutrition Examination Study III

BACKGROUND An increase in the prevalence of obesity and asthma over recent decades has been reported in affluent societies. Both overweight and obesity have been shown to be inversely related to having been breastfed, which is also a potential protective factor against childhood atopic diseases. The aim of this analysis was to explore the relation of body mass index (BMI) to asthma and atopy in a large representative sample of the United States population. METHODS Children aged 4–17 years were included in the NHANES III survey. Prevalences of atopic diseases and potential confounding factors such as exposure to environmental tobacco smoke, birth weight, breast feeding, and household size were assessed using structured interviews with parents. Height and weight were measured, and BMI was calculated as kg/m2 and transformed into Z scores. Children underwent skin prick tests for atopy to a battery of food and inhalant allergens. RESULTS The prevalence of asthma (8.7% v 9.3% v 10.3% v 14.9%, p=0.0001) and atopy (48.6% v 50.5% v 53.0% v 53.2%, p=0.05) rose significantly with increasing quartiles of BMI. After adjustment for confounders, a significant positive association between BMI and asthma remained (adjusted OR 1.77, 95% confidence interval 1.44 to 2.19 between the highest and lowest quartiles of BMI), whereas no independent relation between BMI and atopy was evident. No effect modification by sex or ethnic group was seen. CONCLUSIONS The effects of increased BMI on asthma may be mediated by mechanical properties of the respiratory system associated with obesity or by upregulation of inflammatory mechanisms rather than by allergic eosinophilic inflammation of the airway epithelium.
Some properties of soybean lipoxygenase

Abstract Commercial soybean lipoxygenase (EC 1.99.2.1) was purified by ammonium sulfate fractionation, gel filtration on Sephadex G-150, and chromatography on DEAE-cellulose. The purified protein was essentially homogeneous as judged by acrylamide gel electrophoresis and ultracentrifugation. The molecular weight is 108,000 as determined by the sedimentation-equilibrium method. The amino acid composition was determined, and it was shown that the protein contains four residues of free sulfhydryl groups and four residues of half-cystine per molecule. Treatment of the protein with guanidine hydrochloride or sodium dodecyl sulfate produces dissociation. Present evidence indicates that the protein is composed of two subunits of 54,000 molecular weight.
Chronic stress increases pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mRNA expression in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST): roles for PACAP in anxiety-like behavior

Exposure to chronic stress has been argued to produce maladaptive anxiety-like behavioral states, and many of the brain regions associated with stressor responding also mediate anxiety-like behavior. Pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) and its specific G protein-coupled PAC(1) receptor have been associated with many of these stress- and anxiety-associated brain regions, and signaling via this peptidergic system may facilitate the neuroplasticity associated with pathological affective states. Here we investigated whether chronic stress increased transcript expression for PACAP, PAC(1) receptor, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and tyrosine receptor kinase B (TrkB) in several nuclei. In rats exposed to a 7 days chronic variate stress paradigm, chronic stress enhanced baseline startle responding induced by handling and exposure to bright lights. Following chronic stress, quantitative transcript assessments of brain regions demonstrated dramatic increases in PACAP and PAC(1) receptor, BDNF, and TrkB receptor mRNA expression selectively in the dorsal aspect of the anterolateral bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (dBNST). Related vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and VPAC receptor, and other stress peptide transcript levels were not altered compared to controls. Moreover, acute PACAP38 infusion into the dBNST resulted in a robust dose-dependent anxiogenic response on baseline startle responding that persisted for 7 days. PACAP/PAC(1) receptor signaling has established trophic functions and its coordinate effects with chronic stress-induced dBNST BDNF and TrkB transcript expression may underlie the maladaptive BNST remodeling and plasticity associated with anxiety-like behavior.
The role of nucleoside/nucleotide transport and metabolism in the uptake and retention of 3′-fluoro-3′-deoxythymidine in human B-lymphoblast cells ☆

Abstract Introduction Recent studies in the human adenocarcinoma cell line A549 have identified cell growth-dependent equilibrative nucleoside transporter-1 (hENT1) as a modifier of 3′-fluoro-3′-deoxythymidine (FLT) uptake and retention. In the present study, we used the ability to isolate human lymphoblastoid clones deficient in thymidine kinase 1 (TK1) to study how metabolism and nucleoside transport influence FLT uptake and retention. Methods Transport and metabolism of FLT were measured in the human lymphoblastoid cell line TK6 and in eight clones isolated from TK6. Four clones were TK1-proficient, while four were TK1-deficient. Both influx and efflux of FLT were measured under conditions where concentrative and equilibrative transport could be distinguished. Results Sodium-dependent concentrative FLT transport dominated over equilibrative transport mechanisms and while inhibition of hENT1 reduced FLT uptake, there were no correlations between clonal variations in hENT1 levels and FLT uptake. There was an absolute requirement of TK1 for concentration of FLT in TK6 cells. FLT uptake reached a peak after 60 min of incubation with FLT after which intracellular levels of FLT and FLT metabolites declined. Efflux was rapid and was associated with reductions in FLT and each of its metabolites. Both FLT and FLT-monophosphate were found in the efflux buffer. Conclusions Initial rates of FLT uptake were a function of both concentrative and equilibrative transporters. TK1 activity was an absolute requirement for the accumulation of FLT. Retention was dependent on nucleoside/nucleotide efflux and retrograde metabolism of FLT nucleotides.
Self-compassion and intuitive eating in college women: Examining the contributions of distress tolerance and body image acceptance and action

Self-compassion has been linked to higher levels of psychological well-being. The current study evaluated whether this effect also extends to a more adaptive food intake process. More specifically, this study investigated the relationship between self-compassion and intuitive eating among 322 college women. In order to further clarify the nature of this relationship this research additionally examined the indirect effects of self-compassion on intuitive eating through the pathways of distress tolerance and body image acceptance and action using both parametric and non-parametric bootstrap resampling analytic procedures. Results based on responses to the self-report measures of the constructs of interest indicated that individual differences in body image acceptance and action (β = .31, p < .001) but not distress tolerance (β = .00, p = .94) helped explain the relationship between self-compassion and intuitive eating. This effect was retained in a subsequent model adjusted for body mass index (BMI) and self-esteem (β = .19, p < .05). Results provide preliminary support for a complementary perspective on the role of acceptance in the context of intuitive eating to that of existing theory and research. The present findings also suggest the need for additional research as it relates to the development and fostering of self-compassion as well as the potential clinical implications of using acceptance-based interventions for college-aged women currently engaging in or who are at risk for disordered eating patterns.
Influence of the gas phase inert on reduced-gravity combustion of decane/hexadecane droplets

Reduced gravity experiments were performed to investigate droplet combustion behaviors in environments with He, N2, or Xe as diluents. These diluents have significant differences in molecular weight, allowing investigation of Soret transport (species diffusion from temperature gradients) and differences in binary diffusion coefficients. The droplets, which were initially about 1 mm in diameter, were composed of decane/hexadecane mixtures with initial hexadecane mass fractions of 0, 0.05 and 0.20. Individual fiber-supported droplets were burned at 0.1 MPa with an ambient oxygen mole fraction of 0.21. Use of He produced the largest burning rates, while burning rates for N2and Xe were similar to each other. Flame standoff ratios were unsteady for all inert species investigated. Flame unsteadiness was largest when the inert was He, with N2and Xe producing successively more quasisteady flames, respectively. Using He as an inert did not produce any visible soot, while N2and Xe produced successively brighter radiant soot emissions, respectively. This behavior is interpreted in terms of variations in O2 Lewis numbers between the flame and the environment. The data suggest that Soret transport effects and differences in binary diffusion coefficients were important when He or Xe were used as inerts, but not when N2was used as an inert.
In Vitro Susceptibility of Selected Bacteria to Three Diphosphonia Heterocyclic Compounds

The antibacterial activity of 1,1,4,4-tetraphenyl-1,4-diphosphonia-2,5-diphenylcyclohexadi-2,5-ene dichloride and two of its derivatives were screened for activity using the disk method. All derivatives exhibited antibacterial activity against gram-positive organisms tested, but little inhibition of gram-negative species was noted.
Microcomputer Control of a Residential Photovoltaic Power Conditioning System

Microcomputer-based control of a residential photovoltaic power conditioning system is described. The microcomputer is responsible for array current feedback control, maximum power tracking control, array safe zone steering control, phase-locked reference wave synthesis, sequencing control, and some diagnostics. The control functions are implemented using Intel 8751 single-chip microcomputer-based hardware and software. The controller has been tested in the laboratory with the prototype power conditioner and shows excellent performance.
Purification of nonbindable and membrane-bindable mitochondrial hexokinase from rat brain.

Abstract MgCl 2 -induced binding of glucose-6-P solubilized rat brain hexokinase to rat liver mitochondria has been found to be markedly diminished by increasing ionic strength. Using a modified assay of binding ability, it has now been possible to demonstrate that purified preparations of brain hexokinase do retain appreciable ability to bind to mitochondria. A slight modification of the previous DEAE-cellulose chromatography procedure (4), permits resolution of the hexokinase into two major components designated as Type I b and Type I n based on their ability to bind and not bind, respectively, to mitochondria. I b and I n appear to be identical in molecular size and subunit composition, but differ slightly in net charge.
Hot plate versus tail flick: evaluation of acute tolerance to continuous morphine infusion in the rat model.

Abstract The development of tolerance to continuous morphine infusion (2,4 and, 6 mg × kg−1 × hr−1) was assessed in rats using two different methods for evaluation of nociception, tail flick (TF) and hot plate (HP). The influence of repeated testing on nociception was evaluated using two regimens; series 1 was tested repeatedly 1, 2, 4, 6, and 8 hr after initiating the morphine infusion and series 2 was tested only twice, at maximum morphine effect and at 8 hr. Both, TF and HP showed pain threshold elevation after the morphine administration of 4 or 6 mg × kg−1 × hr−1, which reached a maximum at 2 hr after the start of the infusion. HP: reduction of the effect was found in group 4 mg × kg−1 × hr−1 in the series subjected to repeated testing; group 6 mg × kg−1 × hr−1 showed reduced effect in both series. TF: the response latencies did not show reduction at 8 hr. Since TF is predominantly a spinal response and HP is predominantly supraspinal, the results suggest that tolerance during the first 8 hr of morphine infusion develops mainly at supraspinal level.
Act Your (Old) Age Prescriptive, Ageist Biases Over Succession, Consumption, and Identity

Perspectives on ageism have focused on descriptive stereotypes concerning what older people allegedly are. By contrast, we introduce prescriptive stereotypes that attempt to control how older people should be: encouraging active Succession of envied resources, preventing passive Consumption of shared resources, and avoidance of symbolic, ingroup identity resources. Six studies test these domains, utilizing vignette experiments and simulated behavioral interactions. Across studies, younger (compared with middle-aged and older) raters most resented elder violators of prescriptive stereotypes. Moreover, these younger participants were most polarized toward older targets (compared with middle-aged and younger analogues)--rewarding elders most for prescription adherences and punishing them most for violations. Taken together, these findings offer a novel approach to ageist prescriptions, which disproportionately target older people, are most endorsed by younger people, and suggest how elders shift from receiving the default prejudice of pity to either prescriptive resentment or reward.
Inter-cohort competition drives density dependence and selective mortality in a marine fish.

For organisms with complex life cycles, the transition between life stages and between habitats can act as a significant demographic and selective bottleneck. In particular, competition with older and larger conspecifics and heterospecifics may influence the number and characteristics of individuals successfully making the transition. We investigated whether the availability of enemy-free space mediated the interaction between adult goldspot gobies (Gnatholepis thompsoni), a common tropical reef fish, and juvenile conspecifics that had recently settled from the plankton. We added rocks, which provide refuge from predators, to one-half of each of five entire coral reefs in the Bahamas and measured the survival and growth of recent settlers in relation to adult goby densities. We also evaluated whether mortality was selective with respect to three larval traits (age at settlement, size at settlement, and presettlement growth rate) and measured the influence of refuge availability and adult goby density on s...
Synthesis, kinetic observations and characteristics of polyarylene ether sulphones prepared via a potassium carbonate DMAC process

Abstract The classical route for the synthesis of this family of macromolecules is via nucleophilic aromatic substitution of 4,4′-dichlorodiphenyl sulphone with bisphenates using dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO) and aqueous sodium hydroxide. High molecular weight homopolymers can be synthesized in a relatively short time. However, hydrolytic side reactions can limit its scope for the synthesis of both homopolymers derived from insoluble bisphenates and for copolymers. An alternate route is discussed herein that uses potassium carbonate/dimethylacetamide as base and aprotic dipolar solvent, respectively, for the synthesis of several homopolymers and copolymers derived from various bisphenols. In this system, excess potassium carbonate, unlike aqueous caustic, does not prevent the synthesis of high molecular weight macromolecules. Investigations of the kinetics and mechanism of this process were conducted. These studies demonstrated that this route deviates from the relatively simple second order kinetics previously observed for the aqueous sodium hydroxide/DMSO system. This deviation has been rationalized as resulting from the partially heterogeneous nature of the potassium carbonate.
Recombinant human MFG-E8 ameliorates colon damage in DSS- and TNBS-induced colitis in mice

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by chronic inflammation of the digestive system and typically requires lifelong medical care. Recombinant human MFG-E8 (rhMFG-E8) is a 364-amino acid protein, which promotes apoptotic cell clearance and reduces inflammation. This study investigates the therapeutic effect of rhMFG-E8 on two well-established mouse models of IBD. Acute mucosal injury leading to colitis was caused by exposing C57BL/6 mice to 4% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) in the drinking water over 7 days, and BALB/c mice to a single intrarectal dose of 2.75 mg of 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS). Upon clinical onset of colitis (day 2 in the DSS model and day 1 in the TNBS model), mice were treated with daily subcutaneous injections of rhMFG-E8 (60 or 120 μg/kg/day) or vehicle (saline) for 6 days. Treatment with rhMFG-E8 significantly attenuated colitis in both models in a dose-dependent way. Treatment of DSS-induced colitis with rhMFG-E8 (120 μg/kg/day) decreased weight loss by 59%, the colitis severity score by 71%, and colon shrinkage by 49% when compared with vehicle. Similarly, treatment of TNBS-induced colitis with rhMFG-E8 (120 μg/kg/day) decreased weight loss by 97%, the colitis severity score by 82%, and colon shrinkage by 62% when compared with vehicle. In both models, the colons of animals receiving rhMFG-E8 showed marked reduction in neutrophil infiltration, cytokine and chemokine expression, and apoptotic cell counts. In conclusion, rhMFG-E8 ameliorates DSS- and TNBS-induced colitis, suggesting that it has the potential to become a novel therapeutic agent for IBD.
Constrained maneuver strategies for Project Galileo

The design of maneuvers for Project Galileo is constrained by thruster configuration, modes of thruster usage and limitations required for the safety of the spacecraft and its instruments. The methods used to analyze maneuvers with respect to these constraints is described. The velocity changes necessary for the implementation of a candidate trajectory have been studied and some general conclusions are described.
ICTD at the University of California Berkeley

Several leading researchers from UC Berkeley share their personal research stories, opinions about the field, and advice for students interested in ICTD.
Biventricular assist device as a bridge to transplantation in a pediatric patient

A 5 1/2-year-old boy with idiopathic cardiomyopathy and rapidly worsening hemodynamic parameters underwent placement of a biventricular assist device as a bridge to transplantation. Direct anastomoses to both the aorta and pulmonary artery with Dacron grafts attached to Carmeda-coated tubing facilitated the support period. Inflow was provided by right atrial appendage and left ventricular apex cannulas. A centrifugal pump provided support for 2 days until a suitable donor was identified. The technique is simple, reproducible, and effective for patients with small body surface areas.
The Motor Vehicle's Contribution towards Achieving Improvement in Air Quality

The air-quality situation in Europe in relation to automobile exhaust emissions is described. In addition the European exhaust emission legislation and the consequences to engine concepts are discussed.
A study of non-verbal behavior in an inmate population

PSYCHOANALYTIC and other psychological schools have long held that non-verbal communication (NVC) is of vital importance in human interaction. Tomkins1~2 for example, has built a whole theory of personality around the exigencies of facial affect. As Abercrombie3 has noted: “We speak with our vocal organs, but we converse with our whole body”. While NVC can convey information, as in the American Sign Language for the deaf; and the verbal mode can sustain interpersonal relations, as in informal chat; normally NVC and verbal communications play contrasting roles.4 NVC is used to manage the immediate social situation. Verbal communication is used to convey information connected with shared tasks or problems. 4 It is usually gesture, posture, tone of voice, and facial expressions (NVC) which combine to communicate the emotional base from which words are being exchanged. For ‘example, Argyle et al. 5 have found that non-verbal cues were almost five times more powerful in effecting judgments of inferiority-superiority, than verbal ones. In this context, the old adage “actions speak louder than words” is lent some scientific support. For our study of non-verbal behavior among an inmate population, we received impetus and some direction from the same discipline that has stimulated burgeoning interest in NVC in social science: ethology. Ethology refers to the biological study of animal behavior and is often used, as in ethological, to indicate a focus on NVC. The zoologists who pioneered the field developed systematic techniques for describing and analyzing NVC in their studies of animals, who cannot talk. The productivity of the application of these techniques in human research is attested to by five major works which have been published during the past few years?1°
Involvement of the neurointermediate lobe of the pituitary gland in the secretion of prolactin and luteinizing hormone in the rat.

The relationship between prolactin (PRL) secretion and the neurointermediate lobe (NIL) of the pituitary gland was investigated. Plasma PRL concentrations in rats bearing anterior pituitaries autografted with or without the NIL to the renal capsule were elevated to equal extents at 1 through 6 weeks after surgery (p > 0.10). PRL levels in ovariectomized rats in which the NIL had been removed surgically (NIL-X) or only visualized (NIL-C) were 3–7 ng/ml 4, 7, and 28 days after surgery (p > 0.10); however, they were slightly higher in NIL-X vs. NIL-C rats 14 days after surgery (p < 0.05). Plasma luteinizing hormone (LH) concentrations in NIL-C rats increased by 36% from 2 to 4 weeks after surgery (p < 0.05); this increase was not detected in NIL-X rats. PRL and LH surges were induced by estradiol implants in ovariectomized NIL-X and NIL-C rats; the profiles of the PRL surges were superimposable, although the magnitude of the LH surge was only 50% that in NIL-C rats (p < 0.05). These results cast doubt on the importance of the NIL in the regulation of PRL secretion either via secreting hypophysiotropic hormones or via conducting anterior pituitary hormones directly to the median eminence. However, the NIL may have a physiologically important role in the regulation of LH secretion.
The Chilling Effect of Aggressive Potential on the Expression of Complaints in Intimate Relationships.

This study examined relationships between a partner's aggressive potential and the expression of complaints about that partner's controlling behaviors. A two‐part survey of 160 college students involved in dating relationships solicited information about relational dependence, unexpressed complaints, and a partner's potential for aggression. As expected, anticipating aggressive repercussions was associated with withholding complaints about controlling behaviors (p < .01), but was not correlated with other types of unexpressed grievances. This chilling effect was greater when individuals who generally feared conflict anticipated aggressive repercussions (p < .001), and when people anticipated symbolic aggression from relationally independent partners (p < .05). An individual's own relational dependence also influenced the magnitude of this chilling effect (p < .05). The implications of these findings for the management of relational difficulties and interpersonal aggression are discussed.
A complex of fungi mutualistically involved in the nutrition of the ambrosia beetle Xyleborus ferrugineus

Abstract Paired oral mycangia (organs in which mutualistic fungi are perpetuated) were present in both sexes of the ambrosia beetle Xyleborus ferrugineus . The mycangia of stock culture beetles bore a complex of fungi, yeast, and bacteria. Fusarium solani was the dominant fungal symbiote, but a Cephalosporium sp., and a Graphium sp. also were isolated from 50% and 20% of the beetles, respectively. All three fungi formed “ambrosia” growth on the walls of brood tunnels when inoculated singly into tubes of medium bearing one female beetle previously freed of fungi. The fungus that was inoculated into a given tube of medium was the only fungus subsequently recovered from mycangia of adult beetles in that tube. Each fungus grew in characteristic forms in the mycangia of the beetles. Each of the three fungi provided the nutrients or concentrations of nutrients, not contained in the medium, that were essential to reproduction by the insect.
The lithiation of ferrocene and ruthenocene: a retraction and an improvement

Abstract We reported in 1993 an efficient synthesis of ferrocene and ruthenocene mono- and dialdehydes which suggested the first truly specific monolithiation of these two metallocenes (U.T. Mueller-Westerhoff, Z. Yang and G. Ingram, J. Organomet. Chem., 463 (1993) 163). Unfortunately, these results were based on inappropriate experimental methods. We have now meticulously analyzed a wide spread of reaction conditions and have concluded that an effective monolithiation of ferrocene and of ruthenocene is possible, but not under the previously described reaction conditions.
The meaning of Ramanujan now and for the future

December 22, 2010 marks the 123th anniversary of Ramanujan’s birth. In this paper we pay homage to this towering figure whose mathematical discoveries so affected mathematics throughout the twentieth century and into the twenty-first.
Hemorrhagic chondroid chordoma mimicking pituitary apoplexy

We describe a hemorrhagic chondroid chordoma involving the sella turcica with suprasellar extension. The CT and MRI appearances mimiked a hemorrhagic pituitary adenoma. Chondroid chordoma is a variant composed of elements of both chordoma and cartilaginous tissue. An uncommon bone neoplasm, located almost exclusively in the spheno-occipital region, it is usually not considered in the differential diagnosis of a tumor with acute hemorrhage in the sellar region. We discuss the clinical and radiological characteristics which may allow one to differentiate chondroid chordoma from other tumors of this area.
Radial recession osteotomy for Kienböck's disease.

Sixty-eight patients underwent radial recession osteotomy for avascular necrosis of the lunate were retrospectively evaluated after an average follow-up period of 52 months. Twenty-five patients had undergone 1 or more additional procedures concurrently for treatment of Kienbock's disease. Pain diminished in 93% of patients, grip strength improved, and wrist motion was preserved; 75% of patients continued in their original occupations, including heavy labor. Surgical complications were uncommon. Four patients subsequently underwent salvage procedures, including 2 total wrist arthrodeses. Three of these 4 patients were receiving workers' compensation. One third of patients demonstrated lunate healing after joint leveling. Preliminary results suggest that concomitant lunate revascularization or vascularized bone grafting may improve the radiographic result. With rare exceptions, radial recession osteotomy relieves pain and improves function in Kienbock's disease.
Recovery Spectrum of Quenched Gold

A characteristic substructure has been observed in the isochronal electrical resistivity recovery between -20 and +170°C of quenched 99.99 and 99.9999% pure gold measured at 4.2K. Most of the quenched-in resistivity recovers between 35 and 125°C were three distinct processes (1), (2), and (3) are observed. This recovery shifts to lower temperatures with increasing quenching temperature and dislocation density; it also occurs at lower temperatures in the 99.99% gold compared to that of the purer material. Processes (1) and (2) have activation energies of 0.69±0.03 eV and 0.78±0.05 eV respectively, while the migration energy for process (3) is expected to be about 0.81 eV. The identification of the defects is discussed in view of the binding energy of divacancies.
Patient Simulation as an Active Learning Tool in Medical Education

Active learning techniques encourage students to participate in acquiring skills and knowledge. One technique that encourages active learning is patient simulation. Patient simulation tools can range from simple part-task trainers to complex high-fidelity simulators. A variety of human simulators can be used to teach basic patient care skills or more complex skills such as trauma management. Simulation research has demonstrated students can improve scores on standardized tests as well as improve their confidence. Research is still needed to address the long-term impact of patient simulation training. Although simulations have gained popularity, researchers caution that they should always be used as part of clinical education and not as a substitute.