cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The need for antibiotic coverage for dental treatment of patients with joint replacements

Abstract Patients with major joint prostheses, particularly total hip replacements, have an incidence of postoperative infection of about 1.3 percent. About 50 percent of the cases will occur within 3 months following surgery. Most cases are thought to be due to contamination of the wound at the time of surgery. About 0.3 percent of the THR cases develop infections due to hematogenous spread of bacteria from a distant site. In most cases there is active infection at the distant site and when the THR becomes infected the patient is acutely ill and the death rate is about 18 percent. In about 0.04 percent of the cases an active dental infection was thought to be the cause of the THR infection. No cases of THR infections have been documented as being caused by transient bacteremias secondary to dental manipulations. However, experimental studies have shown that transient bacteremias can infect total joint replacements in the rabbit. In addition, in about 20 to 40 percent of the patients with THR infections of hematogenous origin the site of origin could not be established; some of these cases could be of dental origin. The current practice of using prophylactic antibiotics before and following most dental procedures in patients with THR or other major joint replacements must be questioned from several viewpoints. The first, and most basic, relates to whether it is needed. Second, do the well-known complications associated with antibiotic prophylaxis outweigh the benefits of protecting against the extremely low risk of joint replacement infection secondary to transient bacteremias of dental origin? If future research establishes the need for prophylactic antibiotics to protect against transient bacteremias of dental origin from infecting joint replacements, then a standard approach to drug selection, dosage, and duration needs to be established on the basis of sound clinical studies and scientific information. It would appear that antibiotic prophylaxis prior to dental treatment is not indicated for patients with minor joint replacement or those who have screws or pins placed for bone fractures. When patients with major joint replacements develop dental infections, they must be treated with speed and effectiveness to prevent possible hematogenous spread to the replacement site. This treatment should include consultation with the patient's orthopedic surgeon.
AN IMPROVED COMPUTATIONAL ALGORITHM FOR SINGULAR CONTROL PROBLEMS IN CHEMICAL REACTION ENGINEERING

Abstract A unidirectional method is developed to solve optimal singular control problems with bounded state variables. The computational algorithm utilizes the necessary conditions of optimality and an unidirectional scheme to reduce the iterations required in two-point boundary value problems. The advantage of the method is that it satisfies all the necessary conditions of optimality and results in a considerable reduction in computational effort. Three numerical examples illustrate the use of these algorithms for solving several chemical reaction engineering problems.
Nanoscale Transistors—Just Around the Gate?

Further reduction in the size of the metaloxide semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) used in computer chips will require more complex geometries to enhance the gate control of the current flow in the transistor channel ( 1 ). These advanced designs allow transistor scaling (maintaining performance as size decreases) and minimize the leakage of current when the device is in the off-state. The voltage of operation can be reduced without loss of performance, making the devices function with less power dissipation per operation. The optimal MOSFET geometry surrounds a cylindrical channel with the gate electrode ( 2 ). This “gate-all-around” (GAA) enhances electrostatic control of the entire channel surface (see the figure), and when used with superior charge transport materials, should deliver enhanced performance. Franklin et al. ( 3 ) now report on nanoscale complementary MOSFETs in which suspended single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) form the channel with a GAA geometry. This work marks a milestone in moving SWCNT nanoelectronics from laboratory prototypes toward a manufacturable technology.
Sublethal effects of cadmium ingestion on mallard ducks.

Juvenile mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) drakes were fed diets containing 0, 50, 150, or 450 ppm cadmium for 42±1 days in order to assess the impacts of cadmium ingestion on energy metabolism and tissue metal concentrations in this species. Most significant (p<0.05) effects on energy metabolism were observed only in the 450 ppm group which displayed reduced body and liver weights, increased kidney weights, reduced liver aldolase activity, increased plasma concentrations of uric acid, decreased plasma triiodothyronine concentrations, and elevated adrenal weights and adrenal corticosterone concentrations. Ducks in the 150 ppm group displayed increased adrenal and kidney weights and elevated plasma nonesterified fatty acid concentrations. Among all treatments, increased cadmium and zinc concentrations in both livers and kidneys were dose-related; a similar trend was observed for copper concentrations in kidneys but not livers. Cadmium interference with carbohydrate metabolism in similar studies with mammals was more severe than that observed in mallards in the present study.
Dielectric study at microwave frequencies of water-treed crosslinked polyethylene

The dielectric properties of water-treed crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) were studied by using a hollow microwave waveguide system between 135 MHz and 13.6 GHz. The dielectric loss of water-treed XLPE is proportional to water content. Water-treed XLPE has a low relaxation frequency, which is probably due to bound water. The binding water in trees was confirmed by the lower apparent water diffusion rate in treed XLPE than in undamaged controls measured with a radioactive tracer method. >
Gender differences in resistance to temptation: Theories and evidence

Abstract Three theories (psychoanalytic, parental investment, and differential socialization) make predictions regarding gender differences in the ability to resist temptation. These predictions were tested in a series of meta-analyses conducted on 114 effect sizes derived from 98 studies reporting on gender differences in the ability to inhibit an externally prohibited response. Overall, females showed more restraint than males, but the effect size was very small (r=.03). Further analyses were conducted for each of several types of tasks. On one task, called the forbidden-object task, gender differences were appreciable, with effect sizes ranging from r=.11 to .20, again indicating a female advantage. On two other tasks, both of which involved cheating, gender differences were generally very small, with effect sizes ranging from −.03 to .06. None of the theories under consideration can account for the differences in results by task. Discussion focuses on evolutionary-based explanations for the differences in results by task. Further avenues for research are also noted.
Functional Limitations Among Home Health Care Users in the National Health Interview Survey Supplement on Aging

A case-control study compared home health care (HHC) users from the 1984 Supplement on Aging to users of other community services and of no community service, matched on age and gender. Examination of specific activities of daily living (ADLs), instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), and sociodemographic variables showed that HHC users were significantly more limited than controls in every ADL and IADL. In multivariate analyses, HHC use was significantly associated with three ADLs (dressing, going outside, bathing), two IADLs (shopping, heavy housework), and poor health status.
Temperature dependence in the ultraviolet transmission of cooled fused silica windows.

Transmission losses noted in cooled UV-quality synthetic fused silica windows were investigated. A deuterium lamp was employed as a source of continuum emission over the 400-190-nm range considered. Even slight cooling was found to produce a significant transmission change at wavelengths shorter than about 320 nm. Attempts to clean the windows produced little change in the results, indicating that surface contamination was not responsible for the effect.
miR-200c Targets a NF-κB Up-Regulated TrkB/NTF3 Autocrine Signaling Loop to Enhance Anoikis Sensitivity in Triple Negative Breast Cancer

Anoikis is apoptosis initiated upon cell detachment from the native extracellular matrix. Since survival upon detachment from basement membrane is required for metastasis, the ability to resist anoikis contributes to the metastatic potential of breast tumors. miR-200c, a potent repressor of epithelial to mesenchymal transition, is expressed in luminal breast cancers, but is lost in more aggressive basal-like, or triple negative breast cancers (TNBC). We previously demonstrated that miR-200c restores anoikis sensitivity to TNBC cells by directly targeting the neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase, TrkB. In this study, we identify a TrkB ligand, neurotrophin 3 (NTF3), as capable of activating TrkB to induce anoikis resistance, and show that NTF3 is also a direct target of miR-200c. We present the first evidence that anoikis resistant TNBC cells up-regulate both TrkB and NTF3 when suspended, and show that this up-regulation is necessary for survival in suspension. We further demonstrate that NF-κB activity increases 6 fold in suspended TNBC cells, and identify RelA and NF-κB1 as the transcription factors responsible for suspension-induced up-regulation of TrkB and NTF3. Consequently, inhibition of NF-κB activity represses anoikis resistance. Taken together, our findings define a critical mechanism for transcriptional and post-transcriptional control of suspension-induced up-regulation of TrkB and NTF3 in anoikis resistant breast cancer cells.
Patterns and Predictors of Urodynamics Use in the United States

Purpose: Due to the paucity of data on urodynamics on the national level, we assessed the use of urodynamics in a large sample of individuals in the United States and identified predictors of increased complexity of urodynamic procedures.Materials and Methods: Using administrative health care claims for adults enrolled in private insurance plans in the United States from 2002 to 2007, we identified those who underwent cystometrogram and abstracted relevant demographic and clinical data. We used logistic regression to identify predictors of higher urodynamic complexity over basic cystometrogram, specifically cystometrogram plus pressure flow study and videourodynamics.Results: We identified 16,574 urodynamic studies, of which 23% were cystometrograms, 71% were cystometrograms plus pressure flow studies and 6% were videourodynamics. Stress incontinence was the most common clinical condition for all studies (33.7%), cystometrogram (30.8%), cystometrogram plus pressure flow study (35.4%) and videourodynamics ...
Thoracic organ transplantation in the United States, 1994–2003

Using OPTN/SRTR data, this article reviews the state of thoracic organ transplantation in 2003 and the previous decade. Time spent on the heart waiting list has increased significantly over the last decade. The percentage of patients awaiting heart transplantation for >2 years increased from 23% in 1994 to 49% by 2003. However, there has been a general decline in heart waiting list death rates over the decade. In 2003, the lung transplant waiting list reached a record high of 3,836 registrants, up slightly from 2002 and more than threefold since 1994. One-year patient survival for those receiving lungs in 2002 was 82%, a statistically significant improvement from 2001 (78%). The number of patients awaiting a heart-lung transplant, declining since 1998, reached 189 in 2003. Adjusted patient survival for heart-lung recipients is consistently worse than the corresponding rate for isolated lung recipients, primarily due to worse outcomes for heart-lung recipients with congenital heart disease. A new lung allocation system, approved in June 2004, derives from the survival benefit of transplantation with consideration of urgency based on waiting list survival, instead of being based solely on waiting time. A goal of the policy is to minimize deaths on the waiting list.
Gravitational particle creation and inflation

Particle creation due to the changing spacetime metric at the end of an inflationary era in the early Universe is discussed. The Universe is assumed to make a transition from de Sitter space to either a radiation-dominated or matter-dominated universe. A perturbation approach is used to calculate the number density and energy density of massless, nonconformally coupled particles created by this transition. It is found that their energy density is typically of the order of ${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{v}$${\mathrm{}}^{2}$/${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{\mathrm{Pl}}$, where ${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{v}$ is the value of the cosmological constant in the de Sitter phase and ${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{\mathrm{Pl}}$ is the Planck energy density. This is approximately the energy density of a thermal bath at the Gibbons-Hawking temperature of de Sitter space. The possible applications of this effect to inflationary models is discussed. It is shown that gravitational particle creation is capable of reheating the Universe after inflation and of being the source of the matter in the Universe. This effect makes it possible to avoid the difficulty with reheating which inflationary models with weakly coupled scalar fields otherwise encounter.
Myocardial metabolism during and after mitral valve replacement.

Arterial and coronary sinus concentrations of oxygen, acid-base parameters, electrolytes, and energy-producing substrates were measured in 10 patients during and after operation for double valve replacement. The heart fibrillated during coronary perfusion in five patients and remained beating in the other five. The patterns of changes seen were largely similar to those previously found in less severely ill patients having aortic valve or congenital lesion repair, in spite of longer periods of whole-body perfusion. A case study of one patient in cardiogenic shock before operation, and with persistently low cardiac output afterward, revealed an extreme degree of metabolic and electrolytic derangement taking place.
The politics of US environmental assistance, 1976–1986

Abstract As a result of a lawsuit, in 1975 the US Agency for International Development (AID) began to define for the first time an environmental mission. Despite the fact that agriculture is one of the major budgetary sectors at AID, the environmental programs of the Office of Forestry, Environment and Natural Resources on the whole neglected (until recently) addressing the environmental sustainability of agricultural practices. This outcome is consistent with several models of the public policy process, especially with respect to how technical information is integrated into mission plans. Specifically, the unique shape of the AID environmental mission can be explained by three sets of elements: (a) the conflicting interests of AID's external environmental, agricultural, and forestry constituencies; (b) internal organizational structure and reinforcing ideological predispositions of the Reagan White House, and (c) the developmental priorities of recipient governments. The case illustrates the complexity of executive branch program development where intraorganizational and domestic politics can affect international policy formulation in a way that does not encourage resolution of technical issues. In broad terms, AID's environmental mission still is characterized by an unresolved tension between production goals and sustainability goals, which is perpetuated by organizational rigidities despite evidence of good will and hopeful rhetoric.
Buccal microRNA dysregulation in lung field carcinogenesis: Gender-specific implications

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to be reliable early biomarkers in a variety of cancers including that of lung. We ascertained whether the biomarker potential of miRNAs could be validated in microscopically normal and easily accessible buccal epithelial brushings from cigarette smokers as a consequence of lung cancer linked ‘field carcinogenesis’. We found that compared to neoplasia-free subjects, a panel of 68 miRNAs were upregulated and 3 downregulated in the normal appearing buccal mucosal cells collected from patients harboring lung cancer (n=76). The performance characteristics of selected miRNAs (with ≥1-fold change) were excellent with an average under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUROC) of >0.80. Several miRNAs also displayed gender specificity between the groups. These results provide the first proof-of-concept scenario in which minimally intrusive cheek brushings could provide an initial screening tool in a large at-risk population.
Self-induced transparency in Pr3+:LaF3

Abstract Observation of self-induced transparency for the 3H4 → 3P0 transition of Pr3+:LaF3 is reported. Pulse delays, reshaping and breakup were obtained using a pulsed nitrogen laser pumped dye laser for resonant excitation.
Shock wave-mediated molecular delivery into cells.

Abstract A single shock wave generated by a shock tube is able to effectively deliver macromolecules such as fluorescein isothiocyanate–dextran into the cytoplasm of living cells without causing cytotoxicity. We report on the effect of varying the molecular weight of the dextran and the number of shock waves on the efficiency of delivery into a cancer cell line. The fraction of cells permeabilized and the total fluorescence delivered were measured by flow cytometry, and the cellular viability by a tetrazolium assay on adherent cells and these values were compared to cell permeabilization using digitonin. Shock waves can deliver molecules of up to 2 000 000 molecular weight into the cytoplasm of cells without toxicity and may have applications in gene therapy.
Three-dimensional redox image of the normal gerbil brain

Regional differences in the redox ratio were studied in the gerbil brain. Brains were frozen using an in situ funnel-freezing method, and sliced coronally for scanning of mitochondrial redox imaging. The relative local redox ratio of nicotinamide-adenosine dinucleotide to its reduced form was calculated from fluorescence signals of intrinsic fluorochromes, i.e. reduced nicotinamide-adenosine dinucleotide and flavoproteins, using a high resolution fluorometer developed in our laboratory. Twelve consecutive coronal images were obtained from each of 10 gerbils. The mean value of the regional redox ratio in both the cerebral and cerebellar gray matter were found to be significantly lower than that in the cerebral and cerebellar white matter (P < 0.01, Mann-Whitney test). Local differences in the redox ratio were also found among subregions of gray matter. The redox ratio in the globus pallidus was significantly higher than values in other subregions of gray matter (P < 0.01, Mann-Whitney test) We postulate that a high concentration of the reduced form of pyridine nucleotide is maintained to provide redox energy for rapid turnover of ATP in the areas of high energy consumption.
Estimation of supply and demand for North Carolina's timber

Abstract Supply and demand equations for North Carolina softwood and hardwood stumpage are estimated using a simultaneous equations approach. Indirect least squares forms of the equations are first estimated, then solved for the parameters of the original equations. The resulting supply model is a function of stumpage price and inventory, and demand is a function of stumpage price and wood products prices. Supply and demand price elasticities are presented, compared with elasticities published in previous studies, and implications for the North Carolina timber market are discussed.
Ecological comparisons of robber fly species (Diptera: Asilidae) coexisting in a neotropical forest.

Data regarding seasonal abundance, microhabitat preference, and diet were collected over 3 field seasons for adults of 15 robber fly species on Barro Colorado Island, Panama. The species comprised 2 distinct “thermal guilds”; light-seeking (hereafter LS) species foraged in sunlit areas, while shade-seeking (SS) species foraged only in deep shade. All species were rare during the dry season. During the rainy months, most SS species had flight periods of 2–3 months, and no temporal segregation was apparent. In contrast, most LS species had flight periods of only 4–6 weeks, and a distinct sequence of occurrence was evident during 2 years of censusing. Most SS and LS species displayed a pronounced specificity for perches of a particular substrate type. However, the ranges of perching heights utilized varied considerably among species. Dietary comparisons revealed that mean and maximum prey sizes increased with increasing robber fly size, while minimum prey sizes were constant. Robber fly species <20 mg fed primarily upon nematocerous Diptera, whereas larger species generally fed upon a wide variety of prey types. For each thermal guild, the actual mean overlap for a particular niche dimension was compared to mean overlaps generated by randomly assigning species to thermal guilds. No significant differences from the random null hypothesis were found for the SS guild. However, niche complementarity between dietary and spatial overlaps and dietary overlap was apparent among the 5 large LS species.
Separation of some natural and synthetic corticosteroids in biological fluids and tissues by high-performance liquid chromatography☆

Abstract A high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) technique was developed for the determination of radiolabeled triamcinolone acetonide (TAC), cortisol and their metabolites in rhesus monkey plasma, urine and tissue samples. After protein precipitation, the parent compounds and metabolites were simultaneously resolved using a single-column reversed-phase HPLC system. TAC was subsequently verified by mass spectrometry and TAC glucuronide was tentatively identified by enzymatic hydrolysis and mass spectrometry of the hydrolysis product. The endogenous hormones, cortisol and cortisone were presumptively identified by cochromatography with authentic standards on two different HPLC systems and positively identified by reverse-isotope recrystallization. Other metabolites of both compounds were detected by selective enzymatic hydrolysis and HPLC. This method is rapid and reproducible with a total recovery > 80%.
Reaction chemistry of plutonium with vanadium pentoxide in molten salts

Abstract Vanadium pentoxide, V2O5, has been proposed as an oxidant for the stabilization of reduced forms of plutonium within pyrochemical salt residues from plutonium pyrochemical processes at the Rocky Flats Environmental Technology Site because of its large reduction potential and its ability to react via normal solid-state reactions. However, when V2O5 was used to oxidize actual process residues results were highly variable. This paper discusses the reaction chemistry of PuCl3, Pu° and PuOCl with V2O5 under a variety of conditions, including in the presence and absence of a NaCl/KCl salt matrix. This work is the first systematic study of the solid-state oxidation of plutonium species by vanadium pentoxide. For PuCl3 a greater than or equal to 1:1 V2O5:PuCl3 ratio is needed for complete oxidation. Increasing the amount of V2O5 from 1 to 2 equivalents increases the contribution of side reactions, including reactions of V2O5 with the process equipment and/or salt matrix, and produces undesirable non-volatile ternary and quaternary vanadium compounds. The oxidation of PuOCl is similar to that of PuCl3. Greater than a 1:1 V2O5:PuOCl ratio is required to achieve adequate conversion of PuOCl to PuO2. Oxidation of Pu° by V2O5 is more complex than the PuCl3 or PuOCl oxidations. Complete oxidation of Pu° to Pu(IV) in the presence of the salt matrix does not occur with up to 6 equivalents of V2O5. However, conversion of Pu° to Pu(IV) occurs rapidly in the absence of the salt matrix.
Behavioral, Ultrastructural and Chemical Studies on the Honeydew and Waxy Secretions by Nymphs and Adults of the Asian Citrus Psyllid Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Psyllidae)

The Asian citrus psyllid (ACP), Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Psyllidae) is the primary vector of the bacterium causing citrus huanglongbing (citrus greening), the most serious disease of citrus worldwide. Psyllids and other hemipterans produce large amounts of honeydew, which has been used previously as an indicator of phloem sap composition and insect feeding or metabolism. Behavioral, ultrastructural and chemical studies on ACP, its honeydew and waxy secretions showed important differences between nymphs, males and females, and suggested some mechanisms by which the psyllids, especially nymphs and adult females, can minimize their contamination with honeydew excretions. The anal opening in ACP, near the posterior end of the abdomen, is on the ventral side in nymphs and on the dorsal side in adult males and females. Video recordings showed that adult males produce clear sticky droplets of honeydew gently deposited behind their body on the leaf surface, whereas adult females produce whitish honeydew pellets powerfully propelled away from the female body, probably to get their excretions away from eggs and newly hatched nymphs. ACP nymphs produce long ribbons or tubes of honeydew that frequently stay attached to the exuviae after molting, or drop when feeding on the lower side of citrus leaves. Furthermore, honeydew excretions of both nymphs and adult females are covered with a thin layer of whitish waxy material ultrastructurally composed of a convoluted network of long fine filaments or ribbons. This material is extruded from intricate arrays of wax pores in the circumanal ring (around the anus) that is found in nymphs and females but not in males of ACP or other psyllid species. Infrared microscopy and mass spectroscopy revealed that, in addition to various sugars, honeydew excretions of ACP nymphs and females are covered with a thin layer of wax similar in profile to ester waxes.
Are superconductivity and ferroelectricity mutually compatible

Abstract A brief discussion is given of Matthias' conjecture; to wit, that superconductivity and ferroelectricity are incompatible.
Dots and dashes: art, virtual reality, and the telegraph

Dots and Dashes is a virtual reality artwork that explores online romance over the telegraph, based on Ella Cheever Thayer's novel Wired Love - a Romance in Dots and Dashes (an Old Story Told in a New Way)1. The uncanny similarities between this story and the world of today's virtual environments provides the springboard for an exploration of a wealth of anxieties and dreams, including the construction of identities in an electronically mediated environment, the shifting boundaries between the natural and machine worlds, and the spiritual dimensions of science and technology. In this paper we examine the parallels between the telegraph networks and our current conceptions of cyberspace, as well as unique social and cultural impacts specific to the telegraph. These include the new opportunities and roles available to women in the telegraph industry and the connection between the telegraph and the Spiritualist movement. We discuss the development of the artwork, its structure and aesthetics, and the technical development of the work.
Submicroscopic structure and development of the chloroplasts of Cibotium chamissoi

Abstract Embryonic and mature leaves of Cibotium chamissoi were used for the study of the fine structure and the development of chloroplasts. The chloroplasts of Cibotium are spherical in cross-section, about from 0.5 to 0.8 μ in diameter, and more or less elliptical in outline, when cut obliquely. They are bounded by a well-defined outer membrane. The grana are distributed more or less uniformly throughout the chloroplast, except in those instances in which an irregular peripheral zone is devoid of grana. The grana are randomly oriented between the stroma lamellae. The thickness of the lamellae within the grana was measured about 95 a. At the boundary of the grana, an osmiophilic substance is present. In addition to this substance, relatively large osmiophilic globules also occur in the stroma. From various stages of developing leaves, the following stages of developing chloroplasts were found: 1. (a) The first ultrastructure to be seen within the proplastids are vesicles. In most cases they also contain osmiophilic globules. A dense margin indicates a membrane. 2. (b) The lamellae layers are formed locally by the fusion of the vesicles. 3. (c) The number of lamellae layers increased with size of the chloroplasts. 4. (d) Within the plastids, lamellae appear in bundles, which indicate the grana formation. Lamellated grana are connected by the stroma lamellae, which are less numerous.
Applications of sequential methods in pattern recognition to diagnosis

Abstract The number of decision nodes of a diagnostic decision tree is shown to be reduced by selectively pursuing a path through the decision tree directed by the experience of prior decision outcomes. Two algorithms that provide this selectivity among paths are discussed as applications of sequential pattern recognition theory. One algorithm seeks to minimize the expected decision loss associated with each step in a multistage decision process, while the other algorithm seeks to minimize the uncertainty of a decision at each step. A comparison of the algorithms reveals that the latter provides greater selectivity among decision paths and a corresponding greater reduction in the number of decision nodes.
Quasars as Absorption Probes of the Hubble Deep Field

We present a catalog of 30 quasars (QSOs) and their spectra, in the square degree of sky centered on the northern Hubble Deep Field. These QSOs were selected by multicolor photometry and subsequently confirmed with spectroscopy. They range in magnitude from 17.6 < B < 21.0 and in redshift from 0.44 < z < 2.98. We also include in the catalog an active galactic nucleus with redshift z = 0.135. Together, these objects comprise a new grid of absorption probes that can be used to study the correlation between luminous galaxies, nonluminous halos, and Lyα absorbers along the line of sight toward the Hubble Deep Field.
Placental growth and glycogen metabolism in streptozotocin diabetic rats

Summary The present study was designed to construct a develo~mental Placental glycogen metabolism was investigated in rat pregnancies comolicated bv stre~tozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus. Both ". diabetic and control placentas had increasing glycogen concentration from day 14 to day 16, after which glycogen concentration declined rapidly. The diabetic placentas had significantly elevated glycogen concentration when compared to controls from day 16 through term (day 22). Near term, when control glycogen content fell close to zero, the diabetic placentas still had appreciable glycogen levels. Total phosphorylase activity in the diabetic placentas was significantly higher than control values from day 16-22. Phosphorylase A activity, however, was lower in the diabetic placentas late in gestation, corresponding to the increased glycogen concentration seen at that time. Diabetic placentas had increased total synthase activity on the final 3 days of gestation, although synthase A activity was lower than corresponding control values. The placentas in this model are markedly increased in size late in gestation. No difference in protein concentration or protein/ DNA ratio was noted. Total DNA content per placenta was significantly increased in the diabetic placentas after day 16 when compared to controls. Placental DNA in the diabetics continued to increase until day 18-19 of gestation, whereas DNA content in control placentas remained constant after day 16. Thus, the diabetic placentas apparently continue the process of DNA replication after DNA synthesis is complete in the controls.
Accretion by rotating magnetic neutron stars. II. Radial and vertical structure of the transition zone in disk accretion.

The radial and vertical structure of the transition zone at the magnetospheric boundary of an aligned rotating neutron star accreting matter from a Keplerian disk are calculated. The results obtained indicate that: (1) the inner edge of the disk is located where the integrated magnetic stress acting on the disk plasma becomes comparable to the integrated material stress associated with its inward radial drift and orbital motion; (2) the stellar magnetic field threads the disk near its inner edge via the Kelvin-Helmholtz instability, turbulent diffusion, and reconnection, producing a broad transition zone between the unperturbed disk flow and corotating magnetosphere; (3) the transition zone consists of two qualitatively different regions, viz., a broad outer transition zone where the motion is Keplerian and a narrow inner zone, or boundary layer, where the departure from Keplerian motion is substantial; (4) the stellar magnetic field is largely but not entirely screened by currents flowing in the boundary layer; and (5) there are no steady-flow solutions for sufficiently fast stellar rotation.
Blocking of cloned and native delayed rectifier K+ channels from visceral smooth muscles by phencyclidine

We investigated the effect of phencyclidine (PCP) on three native delayed rectifier K+ currents and three channels cloned from canine and human circular colonic myocytes using voltage-clamp techniques. Native delayed rectifier K+ current in canine circular colon is composed of at least three components: (i) a rapidly activating, 4-aminopyridine-sensitive component (termed IdK(f)); (ii) a slowly activating, tetraethylammonium (TEA)-sensitive component (IdK(s)); and (iii) a rapidly activating, TEA-sensitive component, which has a steady-state inactivation curve shifted towards more negative potentials (IdK(n)). PCP blocked all three components with EC50 values of 45, 27 and 59 micromol L-1, respectively. Blocking was neither use-dependent nor voltage-dependent. Delayed rectifier K+ channels cloned from canine (Kv1.2, Kv1.5) and from human (Kv2.2) colon were expressed in Xenopus oocytes. PCP blocked all three currents with similar potency. In contrast, PCP (up to 10-4 mol L-1) did not reduce the magnitude of Ca2+-dependent outward current of large conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels (BK channels).
Laser printing of nanocomposite solid-state electrolyte membranes for Li micro-batteries

Abstract The electrochemical and mechanical properties of nanocomposite solid-state electrolyte membranes deposited using a laser direct-write technique from a suspended solution comprised of an ionic liquid (1,2-dimethyl-3- n -butylimidazolium-bis-trifluoromethanesulfonylimide)–polymer (poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene)) matrix with dispersed nano-particles (TiO 2 ) are reported and discussed. These laser printed nanocomposite solid-state membranes are shown to exhibit the proper electrochemical behavior for ionic liquids while maintaining the strength and flexibility of the polymer matrix. This combination of physical properties and deposition technique makes these deposited nanocomposite membranes ideally suited for use as an electrolyte/separator in Li micro-batteries. Sample Li micro-batteries using these laser printed nanocomposite membranes have been fabricated and their charge/discharge behavior tested, demonstrating the feasibility of using these nanocomposite membranes in Li micro-battery applications.
A study of the effects of security classification restrictions on technical communication

Security classification in science and technology has aroused strong feelings, but there is little objective information about its effects. This paper presents the opposing, and highly subjective, points of view; summarizes objective studies of information flow; and reports an investigation of the flow of restricted and unrestricted information in a large research-and-development laboratory. The investigation showed that security classifications had little effect on the laboratory's procedure and output; however, additional research is indicated. Altogether this paper demonstrates the feasibility of obtaining empirical data on the effects of security classification on technical communication-data that are much needed, in view of the ongoing controversy.
An exactly integrable algebraic model for (3+1)-dimensional Yang-Mills theory

Abstract It is pointed out that there is an infinite-dimensional group (“universal gauge group”) that contains all gauge groups, for a fixed dimensionality for space. An algebraic analogue of Yang-Mills theory (“universal Yang-Mills theory”) is found for which this is the gauge group. It is shown that this theory is equivalent to a set of decoupled anharmonic oscillators and hence is exactly integrable classically. The quantum theory is shown to be equivalent to a one-dimensional Fermi gas, with interactions of the order of ħ. It is conjectured that universal Yang-Mills theory can be the starting point for an approximation method for gauge theories.
QUANTITATIVE RT-PCR ANALYSES OF FIVE EVOLUTIONARY CONSERVED GENES IN ALLIGATOR BRAINS DURING DEVELOPMENT

Gene expression was investigated in the major brain subdivisions (telencephalon, diencephalon, midbrain and hindbrain) in a representative reptile, Alligator mississipiensis, during the later stages of embryonic development. The following genes were examined: voltage-gated sodium channel isoforms: NaV1.1 and NaV1.2; synaptic vesicle 2a (SV2a); synaptophysin; and calbindin 2. With the exception of synaptophysin, which was only expressed in the telencephalon, all genes were expressed in all brain regions sampled at the time periods examined. For NaV1.1, gene expression varied according to brain area sampled. When compared with NaV1.1, the pattern of NaV1.2 gene expression differed appreciably. The gene expression of SV2a was the most robust of any of the genes examined. Of the other genes examined, although differences were noted, no statistically significant changes were found either between brain part or time interval. Although limited, the present analysis is the first quantitative mRNA gene expression study in any reptile during development. Together with future experiments of a similar nature, the present gene expression results should determine which genes are expressed in major brain areas at which times during development in Alligator. When compared with other amniotes, these results will prove useful for determining how gene expression during development influences adult brain structure.
Can Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Principles Be Applied to the Treatment of Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter?

OBJECTIVE:To discuss treatment options that can be used for treatment of Acinetobacter infections.DATA SOURCES:A MEDLINE search (1966-November 2010) was conducted to identify English-language literature on pharmacotherapy of Acinetobacter and the bibliographies of pertinent articles. Programs and abstracts from infectious diseases meetings were also searched. Search terms included Acinetobacter, multidrug resistance, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, Monte Carlo simulation, nosocomial pneumonia, carbapenems, polymyxins, sulbactam, aminoglycosides, tetracyclines, tigecycline, rifampin, and fluoroquinolones.DATA SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION:All articles were critically evaluated and all pertinent information was included in this review.DATA SYNTHESIS:Multidrug resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter, defined as resistance to 3 or more antimicrobial classes, has increased over the past decade. The incidence of carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter is also increasing, leading to an increased use of dose optimization te...
Management of skin disease in patients with lupus erythematosus.

Skin disease in patients with lupus erythematosus may be subdivided into two broad categories - those represented by a 'specific' histopathology, the interface dermatitis, and those with changes that are not specific to lupus erythematosus, for example, vasculitis, mucin infiltration, etc. The specific skin lesions that are most common are discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) and subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE). Evaluation will allow the treating physician to assign a prognosis. Cutaneous lesions can generally be managed with standard therapies. Patients with discoid LE and subacute cutaneous LE are generally photosensitive, and therefore sunscreens, protective clothing and behavioural alteration should be discussed with all patients. Topical corticosteroids are a standard form of therapy, but 'newer' agents such as retinoids, calcipotriene and tacrolimus might be effective. Antimalarial agents are generally effective. Attempts to reduce or stop smoking may aid in the control of cutaneous LE. The choice of alternative therapy is personal, and discussions of the risks and benefits should be carefully documented.
The Mirandea Clade (Acanthaceae, Justicieae, Tetramerium Lineage): Phylogenetic Signal from Molecular Data and Micromorphology Makes Sense of Taxonomic Confusion Caused by Remarkable Diversity of Floral form

Abstract The Mirandea clade (Acanthaceae) is part of the Tetramerium lineage (Acanthaceae: Justicieae). Traditionally, macromorphological floral traits such as floral form and color have guided taxonomy in the Tetramerium lineage but earlier results on this group indicate that these traits are highly homoplastic. The present study includes all described species and multiple samples of Hoverdenia, Mirandea, and Yeatesia to fully delimit the Mirandea clade, test monophyly of species, and determine relationships among them using DNA sequence data from five regions (nuclear: nrITS and ncpGS; cp: trnS—G, ndhF—trnL(UAG), and trnT-L). The Mirandea clade is here shown to include seven species currently placed in four genera: Mirandea, Hoverdenia, Yeatesia, and Justicia. The lineage is edaphically and geographically cohesive, occurring along the Sierra Madre Oriental in Mexico and southern Texas in xeric habitats, except for one species that inhabits a broad geographical region of the southeastern U. S. A. in mesi...
Worst-Case Robust Profit in Generation Self-Scheduling

Recent research has shown that portfolio optimization theory can be extended to generation self-scheduling in a competitive energy market. This letter considers the self-scheduling problem in the case where the mean vector and covariance matrix of the probability distribution of prices are only known within given bounds, and the probability distribution is otherwise arbitrary. Under the above assumptions, it is shown that a method for optimization over symmetric cones can be used to (1) compute the worst-case robust profit with probability level beta and (2) optimize the self-schedule for a given probability level beta of the corresponding worst-case robust profit.
Military Service, Race, and the Transition to Marriage and Cohabitation:

Using data from the 1979 National Longitudinal Study of Youth, the author investigates the relationship between military service and the transition to the first intimate union. The author argues that active-duty military service promotes marriage over cohabitation. The results are consistent with this argument, showing that active-duty members of the military are much more likely to choose marriage over cohabitation compared to reserve-duty service members, veterans, and comparable civilians. These results are particularly strong for Black men, indicating a possible relationship between working in a largely race-neutral environment and the choice of first intimate union.
Effect of CaO and SiO2 on swelling and iron whisker formation during reduction of iron oxide compact

The effects of CaO and SiO2 on swelling and iron whisker growth during iron oxide reduction were investigated. Compacts made up of iron oxide concentrate and SiO2/CaO sintered for 1 h in air were reduced by CO at 900°C to 80–90%. The reduced compact was broken to be examined for the formation of whisker by SEM. The results showed that the effect of SiO2 on suppressing swelling is complex, but an increase in %CaO effectively suppressed swelling and long iron whisker growth. The SEM results indicated that the nucleation sites of whisker growth were changed from disperse locations to close clusters with an increase in %SiO2, while the number of whiskers increased with an increase in %CaO. A conceptual diagram developed in this work presents adequately the effects of SiO2 and CaO contents on swelling and iron whisker growth.
Role of Additives in Formation of Solid–Electrolyte Interfaces on Carbon Electrodes and their Effect on High‐Voltage Stability

The in situ modification of a lithium hexafluorophosphate-based electrolyte using a molybdenum oxide catalyst and small amount of water (1 vol %) yields hydrolysis products such as mono-, di-, and alkylfluorophosphates. The electrochemical stability of ultrahigh-purity, high-surface-area carbon electrodes derived from polyfurfuryl alcohol was tested using the modified electrolyte. Favorable modification of the solid electrolyte interface (SEI) layer on the activated carbon electrode increased the cyclable electrochemical voltage window (4.8-1.2 V vs. Li/Li(+)). The chemical modification of the SEI layer induced by electrolyte additives was characterized by using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
Functional Psychiatric Disorders

The first application of evoked-response methods to the study of psychiatric patients was probably carried out in our laboratory (Shagass and Schwartz, 1961 b). Although psychiatric diagnostic criteria present difficult problems of reliability, they offer convenient reference points that enable clinicians to relate laboratory findings to states with which they are familiar. Our research strategy has been to compare evoked-response characteristics in psychiatric diagnostic groups with the expectation that repeatable neurophysiological differences would provide a first step toward defining psychopathological dimensions based on aberrant physiology. In other words, having found a diagnostic difference, one may then attempt to determine which factors involved in the diagnosis account for the correlation with the electrophysiology.
Protein accumulation underlying lifespan extension via ovariectomy in grasshoppers is consistent with the disposable soma hypothesis but is not due to dietary restriction

Reduced reproduction extends lifespan in many experimental animals, but the mechanism by which this occurs is unclear. The disposable soma hypothesis suggests that when reproduction is reduced, more nutrients are allocated to the soma and lifespan is extended. Alternatively, the reproductive tissues or the process of reproduction may have a direct (i.e., non-nutritional) negative effect on lifespan. We used ovariectomized grasshoppers to examine the effects of reduced reproduction throughout the lifespan at the physiological level. We focused on protein, the limiting nutrient for egg production. Ovariectomized females lived significantly longer than sham females. Because both groups ingested similar amounts, the effect was independent of dietary restriction. Despite this, ovariectomized females gained less body mass than sham females. Ovariectomized grasshoppers produced the egg yolk-precursor protein vitellogenin. At the time sham females laid their first clutch, cumulative reproductive protein was similar in ovariectomized and sham females. By advanced ages, however, ovariectomized females had produced about five-fold less cumulative reproductive protein than sham females. In contrast, old ovariectomized females had at least two-fold more hemolymph storage protein. These results are consistent with ovariectomy extending lifespan in part via enhanced protein allocation to storage at the expense of reproduction.