cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of selective A1 adenosine receptor antagonism of postdefibrillation cardiovascular depression: evidence for an antiadrenergic role of endogenous adenosine

Objective: The aim was to examine the effect of a selective A1 adenosine receptor antagonist (N-0861) on postdefibrillation cardiovascular depression to determine whether antagonist mediated enhanced postdefibrillation haemodynamic recovery is due to reversal of the antiadrenergic action of adenosine, an A1 receptor mediated effect. Methods: Halothane-nitrous oxide anaesthetised Duroc pigs of either sex, weight 22-25 kg, were subjected to sequential episodes of induced ventricular fibrillation lasting either 15 s (terminated by a suprathreshold shock at 60-70 A) or 35 s (subjected to a subthreshold shock at 20 A followed by a suprathreshold shock at 60-70 A) during intravenous placebo infusion (n=10), N-0861 infusion (0.1 mg·kg−1·min−1, n=10), and N-0861 infusion plus propranolol (2 mg·kg−1, n=6). Results: N-0861 significantly enhanced immediate postdefibrillation electrophysiological and haemodynamic recovery compared to placebo for ventricular fibrillation episodes lasting 35 s. Over the first 15 s postdefibrillation, N-0861 significantly (p<0.05) shortened mean cycle length by 55%, increased mean arterial pressure by 33%, and increased the first derivative of left ventricular pressure (an indirect measure of cardiac contractility) by 100% compared to placebo. At 60 s postdefibrillation, when other variables were equal, the first derivative of left ventricular pressure in the presence of N-0861 remained 26% greater than placebo. This effect was completely antagonised by propranolol. Conclusions: (1) Cardiac contractility in the immediate postdefibrillation period is suppressed by the antiadrenergic action of endogenous adenosine. (2) Selective A1 adenosine receptor antagonism can markedly enhance postdefibrillation contractility. (3) These results support an antiadrenergic role of endogenous adenosine under pathophysiological conditions. Cardiovascular Research 1993; 27 :129-133
Using Meaningful Contexts to Build Poor Readers' Sight Vocabularies.

Four global areas are described in which meaningful context is used to increase poor readers' sight and expanding reading vocabularies. Automatic and effortless word recognition is the goal so that poor readers can chunk and integrate text successfully for meaning. The four contextual areas are use of children's literature, use of a thematic approach, use of language experience, and use of interactive computer software programs. Teaching procedures for each area are described in which the poor reader becomes responsible for choosing the types of context that provide the basis for his or her reading recovery.
Army Classification in Post-War Vocational Guidance

[The following observations on the utilization of the Classification Test used in the Army come to us through the courtesy of Private Siegel who secured clearance through military channels.—Ed.]
Consistency of individual differences in anti-predator behaviour and colour pattern in the garter snake, Thamnophis ordinoides

Abstract Abstract. The importance of individual variation in behaviour as both an ingredient and a consequence of natural selection has only recently received much attention from empirical researchers. The manner in which individual differences change ontogenetically and how such changes may affect an individual's fitness are still largely unknown. This study investigates the development of anti-predator behaviour and colour pattern in the northwestern garter snake, Thamnophis ordinoides , during the first 2 years of life under laboratory conditions and in the wild. Several aspects of escape behaviour were examined, including the maximum sprint speed, the distance crawled until an anti-predator display was performed (stamina), and the tendency to perform stereotypical evasive manoeuvres during flight (reversals). These aspects of escape behaviour and the stripedness of colour pattern showed significant changes during this time, although the specific changes varied between laboratory and field conditions. Many of the developmental changes were associated with growth. Traits generally showed strong positive correlations across ages, both in the laboratory and in the field. Individual differences in anti-predator behaviour and colour pattern in this species of snake appear to be relatively consistent throughout the first 2 years of life. Using neonate trait values to estimate selection during this time will provide accurate representations of the form of selection because the ontogenetic trajectories of individuals are parallel.
Extinction and Scattering Properties of Soot Emitted From Buoyant Turbulent Diffusion Flames

Extinction and scattering properties at wavelengths of 250-5200 nm were studied for soot emitted from buoyant turbulent diffusion flames in the long residence time regime where soot properties are independent of position in the overfire region and characteristic flame residence times. Flames burning in still air and fueled with gas (acetylene, ethylene, propane, and propylene) and liquid (benzene, toluene, cyclohexane, and n-heptane) hydrocarbon fuels were considered. Measured scattering patterns and ratios of total scattering/absorption cross sections were in good agreement with predictions based on the Rayleigh-Debye-Gans (RDG) scattering approximation in the visible. Measured depolarization ratios were roughly correlated by primary particle size parameter, suggesting potential for completing RDG methodology needed to make soot scattering predictions as well as providing a nonintrusive way to measure primary soot particle diameters. Measurements of dimensionless extinction coefficients were in good agreement with earlier measurements for similar soot populations and were independent of fuel type and wavelength except for reduced values as the near ultraviolet was approached. The ratios of the scattering/absorption refractive index functions were independent of fuel type within experimental uncertainties and were in good agreement with earlier measurements. The refractive index junction for absorption was similarly independent of fuel type but was larger than earlier reflectometry measurements in the infrared. Ratios of total scattering/absorption cross sections were relatively large in the visible and near infrared, with maximum values as large as 0.9 and with values as large as 0.2 at 2000 nm, suggesting greater potential for scattering from soot particles to affect flame radiation properties than previously thought.
Attention theory and training research

This study used elements of attention theory as a methodological basis to decompose a complex training task in order to improve training efficiency. The complex task was a microcomputer flight simulation where subjects were required to control the stability of their own helicopter while acquiring and engaging enemy helicopers in a threat enviroment. Subjects were divided into whole-task, part-task, and part/open loop adaptive task groups in a transfer of training paradigm. The effect of reducing mental workload at the early stages of learning was examined with respect to the degree that subordinate elements of the complex task could be automated through practice of consistent, learnable stimulus-response relationships. Results revealed trends suggesting the benefit of isolating consistently mapped sub-tasks for part-task training and the presence of a time-sharing skill over and above the skill required for the separate subtasks.
Physical factors that trigger cholesterol crystallization leading to plaque rupture

Abstract Background Triggers of plaque rupture have been elusive. Recently it was demonstrated that cholesterol expands when transforming from a liquid to a crystal state, disrupting overlying plaque. This study examined the effect of physical conditions including saturation, temperature, hydration, pH on cholesterol crystallization. Methods Graduated cylinders were filled with varying amount of cholesterol powder (1, 2 and 3 g) and dissolved in corn oil at 37 °C. Change in volume expansion (ΔVE) and time to crystallization were measured for each saturation. The same was repeated while varying temperature (22–44 °C); hydration (1–3 ml H2O); pH (5–8.4) and combination of saturation and temperature. Scanning electron microscopy was performed to evaluate crystal morphology and X-ray diffractometry to assess molecular structure of cholesterol. Results Increasing saturation raised both ΔVE (3 g: 0.53 ± 0.1 ml vs. 1 g: 0.14 ± 0.02 ml and 2 g: 0.3 ± 0.1 ml; p Conclusions Physical factors influenced both volume and rate of cholesterol crystallization. This suggests that local factors may play an important role in triggering plaque rupture. Combination of several factors may even be a more powerful trigger for acute cardiovascular events.
Quantum interference of intersubband transitions in coupled quantum wells

Abstract Intersubband absorption is investigated in coupled asymmetric double quantum well systems. For a coupled system with three bound states, anti-crossing behavior is observed between the spatially direct and spatially indirect transitions. For samples in which the excited states are also coupled to a continuum on one side, a resonant tunneling-induced interference is observed as a reduction in absorption at energies between the direct and indirect transition energies. Analysis of the absorption profiles yields estimates of the relevant lifetimes and dephasing times for the transitions.
Efficient noble metal-free (electro)catalysis of water and alcohol oxidations by zinc-cobalt layered double hydroxide.

Replacing rare and expensive noble metal catalysts with inexpensive and earth-abundant ones for various renewable energy-related chemical processes as well as for production of high value chemicals is one of the major goals of sustainable chemistry. Herein we show that a bimetallic Zn–Co layered double hydroxide (Zn–Co–LDH) can serve as an efficient electrocatalyst and catalyst for water and alcohol oxidation, respectively. In the electrochemical water oxidation, the material exhibits a lower overpotential, by ∼100 mV, than monometallic Co-based solid-state materials (e.g., Co(OH)2 and Co3O4)-catalytic systems that were recently reported to be effective for this reaction. Moreover, the material’s turnover frequency (TOF) per Co atoms is >10 times as high as those of the latter at the same applied potentials. The Zn–Co–LDH also catalyzes oxidation of alcohols to the corresponding aldehydes or ketones at relatively low temperature, with moderate to high conversion and excellent selectivity.
Immunohistochemical localization of corticotropin-releasing factor in the brain and corticotropin-releasing factor and thyrotropin-stimulating hormone in the pituitary of chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha).

This report describes the distribution of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF)-like immunoreactivity in the brain and the contiguous localization of CRF- and thyrotropin-stimulating hormone (TSH)-like immunoreactivity in the pituitary of hatchery-reared, juvenile chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha). Results show that CRF-immunoreactive cell bodies exist in the parvocellular and magnocellular nuclei of the preoptic area and in a ventral hypothalamic region corresponding to the nucleus lateralis tuberis. CRF-immunoreactive fibers are observed along the rostral edge of the hypothalamus, in the pituitary stalk, and in the pituitary gland. Within the pituitary, CRF-immunoreactive fibers, with terminal-like boutons, were distinguishable in the neurohypophysis, pars distalis (PD), and pars intermedia (PI). In the PD, the CRF-immunoreactive fibers terminate in regions that contain TSH-positive pituitary cells. From this study, we conclude that CRF-immunoreactive fibers travel through, and terminate in, the neurohypophysis. CRF-immunoreactive fibers were also observed to terminate within the basement membrane and within the PD and PI of the adenohypophysis. Furthermore, the contiguous localization of CRF-immunoreactive fibers and TSH-immunoreactive pituitary cells suggests that CRF may mediate release of TSH.
Transgender Children and Adolescents

Being transsexual, transgender, or gender nonconforming is a matter of diversity, not pathology. (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) In 2010, the World Professional Association ...
In vivo bladder regeneration using small intestinal submucosa: experimental study

Significant side effects are correlated with bladder augmentation. Recently, small intestinal submucosa (SIS) has been proposed for clinical use. The efficacy of SIS bladder regeneration was studied in a porcine experimental model. Partial cystectomy (40–60% of bladder wall) was performed and replaced by SIS graft. Animals were planned to be killed at 2 weeks, 5 weeks and 3 months. Bladder capacity at 40 cmH2O pressure and macroscopic graft morphology were assessed before and after SIS implant. Histological examination was carried out with computer assisted morphometric analysis for collagen/smooth muscle ratio. Student’s t test was adopted for statistical analysis. Two piglets died on the 9th and 10th post-operative day due to urinary peritonitis. The remaining piglets were killed after uneventful post-operative period at 5 weeks (two animals) and 3 months (two animals). The bladder capacity was reduced (−18%) at the 5 week follow-up and quite similar to the pre-operative volume (+2.5%) at the 3 months control. No diverticular formation, bladder calculi, mucus and urinary infection were found. The SIS graft resulted not significantly contracted. Histology at 10 days showed SIS membrane lined by transitional epithelium islands with some capillaries. At 5 weeks, transitional epithelium was fully covering the graft; new blood vessels and fibroblasts with smooth muscle cells were observed. At 3 months, the SIS was not evident. Two layers were defined: inner transitional epithelium, outer collagen with fibroblasts and muscular bundles. Computer assisted morphometric analysis showed collagen/muscle ratio 70/30% (normal bladder=56/44%, P<0.05). The SIS was effective as a scaffold for bladder wall regeneration in four out of six animals. Long-term studies are required to confirm the efficacy of the newly developed wall and for eventual clinical use.
Inhibition of dopamine-β-hydroxylase by alternative electron donors

Abstract The alternative electron donors ferrocyanide and hydroquinone have been shown to also act as inhibitors of dopamine-β-hydroxylase (3,4-dihydroxyphenylethylamine, ascorbate:oxygen oxidoreductase (β-hydroxylating), EC 1.14.17.1). Hydroquinone shows uncompetitive inhibition with respect to ascorbate and competitive inhibition with respect to tyramine. Ferrocyanide shows uncompetitive inhibition with respect to ascorbate and mixed type inhibition with respect to tyramine. Inhibition by ferrocyanide at concentrations at or above 2.5 · 10 −5 M was prevented by 2.5 · 10 −6 M cupric ion. These results indicate that the inhibitory action of these alternative electron donors is due to their interaction with a reduced enzyme species. The potency of inhibition of dopamine-β-hydroxylase by both ferrocyanide and hydroquinone is dependent on the degree of protonation of a group in the enzyme having a p K a of 5.3.
Gravity Sensors and the Principle of Equivalence

The tensor characteristics of the inertial fields created by acceleration and rotation, and the gravitational fields created by masses are discussed. Although it is sometimes thought that it is impossible to distinguish between gravitational and inertial effects because of Einstein's principle of equivalence, these effects do have different, detectable tensor characteristics. The principle of equivalence is only strictly applicable at a point, while the instruments to measure these tensor fields exist over a finite region. The inertial field created by acceleration is a uniform vector field and has no gradients, while the inertial field created by rotation has a uniform cylindrically symmetric tensor gradient but none of higher order. The gravitational field created by a mass is highly nonuniform with essentially no limit to the number of higher order gradients. These differences make it theoretically possible to independently measure gravitation, rotation, and acceleration effects; to do so, some form of differential force sensor with tensor response characteristics must be used. The standard technique is static, using differential accelerometers to sense the spatial gradient characteristics of the fields. A more promising technique is dynamic; by rotation of the differential sensor, the static spatial variations are transformed into temporal variations with various frequency components. It is then possible to distinguish between the various fields by frequency filtering.
Demeter in Roman Corinth: Local Development in a Mediterranean Religion

This study constructs a history of Demeter worship in Corinth and its environs based on archaeological finds from the Demeter and Kore sanctuary on Acrocorinth and elsewhere in the Corinthia. These finds document the changing character of Demeter devotion from the Greek to Roman period. Demeter worship survived the Roman sacking of Corinth in 146 BCE, but the reemerging cult changed: Demeter's chthonic aspect became dominant in the Roman period. The earlier Greek emphasis on fertility, substantiated by votive pottery finds from the Classical and Hellenistic periods, gave way to funerary and underwold emphases. Evidence both from the Demeter and Kore sanctuary on Acrocorinth and from Isthmia attests to the growing importance of Persephone and Pluto, the rulers of the dead, and of snake symbols, whose funerary and chthonic affinities were deeply rooted in ancient Mediterranean culture.
A state-of-art survey of static scheduling research involving due dates

Abstract This paper provides a guided tour of those scheduling techniques in which the performance measures bear in one way or the other on job due dates. The classification is based on scheduling objectives. Within each category the theoretical developments and computational experiences have been reviewed.
A permanent radiopaque marker technique for the study of pharyngeal swallowing in dogs

We describe a simple technique for permanently implanting steel marker beads in the submucosa of the pharynx of dogs for the study of pharyngeal swallowing. The beads remain stable in location, induce no inflammatory reaction, and do not impede swallowing function. High-speed 35 mm biplane cineradiographic recordings of pharyngeal swallowing with computer analysis of bead positions make it possible to measure and analyze the motion of specific anatomic structures during deglutition.
Quantitative line edge roughness characterization for sub-0.25-μm DUV lithography

As gate dimensions continue to shrink, improving CD control is a major challenge for sub-0.25 micron DUV lithography. One concern is line edge roughness which takes the form of both high and low frequency effects. In this paper, high frequency line edge roughness refers to high frequency small amplitude CD variations noted along the edge of a wet developed resist feature. Low frequency line edge roughness (LFLER) refers to the higher amplitude waviness observed along the edge of developed features. BOth these roughness parameters could lead to significant variations in device characteristics. Several factor such as the resist formation, quality of the aerial image and process conditions have in the past been attributed as possible sources of roughness. In this study, a quantitative characterization of wet developed feature roughness was conducted and attempts were made to determine the sources of its origin, along with the impact of plasma etch. High and low frequency LER was characterized using a Dektak SXM atomic force microscope and a Hitachi 7800 scanning electron microscope. Nominal 0.20, 0.18, and 0.16 micrometers isolated lines were studied following photolithography and the gate etch. Additional variables in this study included substrate type, resists composition, develop time, focus and the impact of aerial image.
Time Dependent Magnetic Switching in Spin Valve Structures

We have observed time dependent magnetic switching in spin-valve sandwich structures of Cu/Co/Cu/Fe films grown on silicon and Kapton substrates and Permalloy/Co/Cu/Co films grown on NiO or NiO/CoO coated Si substrates. The giant magnetoresistance (MR) values ranged from 1 to 3 percent at room temperature. The films were grown by DC magnetron sputter deposition. Measurements were made on the time required for the MR to stabilize to about 1 part in 104 after the applied field was incremented. This time depends almost linearly on the amplitude of the timedependent MR change with a slope (time / ΔMR) of 20 000 to 30 000 s. Some samples took as long as 70 s to stabilize. The time dependent effects may be important for devices operating in these regions of the magnetoresistance curve. In addition, measurements were made on the time history of the MR value for a period of 75 s following a step change in the field from saturation. We observed that the time dependent behavior of the MR values of both experiments produced an excellent fit to a function of the form ΔMR(t) = α + β;ln(t) where ɑ and β are constants. This time dependence was consistent with the behavior of the magnetic aftereffect.
Energy Metabolism of Rumex Leaf Tissue in the Presence of Senescence-regulating Hormones and Sucrose

Hormones which inhibit senescence of Rumex leaf tissue in the dark include gibberellin A(3), and the cytokinins 6-benzylamino purine and zeatin. These hormones inhibit respiratory metabolism in this tissue, but do not change the pattern or total amount of oxygen consumption during senescence. Abscisic acid, a senescence accelerator, correspondingly stimulates oxygen consumption. This correlation of senescence rate and respiration rate holds with regard to the hormone concentrations effective and the continued activity of the hormones when added after the lag phase of chlorophyll breakdown. Transfer experiments show that the respiratory inhibition due to gibberellin A(3) and the promotion due to abscisic acid become established within 3 hours of hormone addition. When gibberellin A(3) and zeatin were rapidly added to narrow strips of tissue, no inhibitions of oxygen uptake were observed in the first 12 minutes. Senescence-inhibiting concentrations of sucrose strongly stimulate respiratory meabolism, raise the respiratory quotient, and cause inhibition of chlorophyll and protein breakdown which is distinct from the effect of gibberellins or cytokinins.It is proposed that the gibberellins and cytokinins may act by inhibiting a rate-limiting process in the metabolism of starving leaf tissue. This rate-limitation hypothesis envisions a possibly subtle action of the hormone which retards but does not alter the pattern of macromolecular changes during cell autolysis.
Learning from Franklin's Mistakes: Self-Interest Rightly Understood in the Autobiography

Benjamin Franklin divides the mistakes he lists in the Autobiography into “errata” and “great errata.” He derived no benefit from the latter, but some benefit from the former. Examining Franklin's regret, or lack of regret, at these errata opens a window onto Franklin's understanding of morality. The laxity in his list of virtues and his flexibility with regard to conventional morals stem from the insight Franklin tells us he gained from these errata. For Franklin, or at least his persona in the Autobiography, there was no conflict between egoism and altruism, and he is therefore the embodiment of a type of self-interest well understood. Tracing the story of the errata, which Franklin inserted into an earlier draft of the work's first part, and Franklin's later actions provides the key to understanding the rhetorical strategy of the Autobiography, and the reason he never wrote his proposed Art of Virtue.
Arthroscopic Removal of Dorsoproximal Chip Fractures of the Proximal Phalanx in Standing Horses

Objective— To report a technique for, and outcome after, arthroscopic removal of dorsoproximal chip fractures of a proximal phalanx in standing horses. Study design— Retrospective study. Animals or sample population— A total of 104 horses, 1 to 13 years of age, with a dorsoproximal chip fracture of a proximal phalanx. Methods— Horses were restrained in standing stocks and sedated with intravenous xylazine, detomidine, or a combination of both drugs. Local analgesia was achieved with 2% mepivacaine administered intra-articularly and by subcutaneous infiltration in a crescent-shaped block dorsal to the fetlock. Sterile drapes were placed on the surgical field, and impervious drapes were used on the hoof and floor. Arthroscopic portals were created in the dorsal pouch of the metacarpophalangeal or metatarsophalangeal joints to remove chip fractures. Statistical analysis was performed on race records for all Thoroughbred racehorses and compared with previously published studies. Operative and hospitalization times were compared with those of the general hospital population, and risks associated with general anesthesia were examined. Results— No major operative or postoperative complications occurred. Ninety-one percent of racehorses raced after surgery with 78% returning to race at the same or higher level. Conclusion— Standing arthroscopic surgery can be performed successfully to remove dorsoproximal chip fractures of the proximal phalanx. Clinical relevance— Standing arthroscopic surgery is a valid alternative treatment for experienced surgeons to avoid the expense and potential risks associated with general anesthesia.
Failure to thrive in infants with complicated facial hemangiomas

: We have observed that some children with facial hemangiomas of infancy have feeding difficulties coincident with periods of failure to thrive. We evaluated the early oral sensory and feeding experiences of four children with facial hemangiomas through medical record review and parental surveys to investigate their contribution to the patients’ failure to thrive. All children with feeding irregularities experienced some degree of oral sensory impairment and required early oral sensory intervention, but there were varying reports of difficulty or delay in the development of oral feeding. The nature of these difficulties is discussed. Infants with complicated facial hemangiomas with perioral and airway involvement may be at higher risk for feeding and oral sensory problems. We recommend close monitoring for failure to thrive and early evaluation by speech or occupational therapists.
Effective adsorption energy distribution function as a new mean-field characteristic of surface heterogeneity in adsorption systems with lateral interactions.

Abstract Recent papers [W. Piasecki, Langmuir 22 (2006) 6761; P. Zarzycki, Langmuir 22 (2006) 11234; P. Zarzycki, J. Colloid Interface Sci. 306 (2007) 328] showed that the distinction between surface heterogeneity and effects of electrostatic interactions becomes problematic for metal oxide/electrolyte systems. This observation suggests that both mentioned factors can be combined into one (“effective” energy). Hence, the effective adsorption energy distribution function (EAEDF) with the Langmuir isotherm can be used in the framework of integral adsorption isotherm (IAI) instead of the classical adsorption energy distribution function (AEDF) with the Fowler–Guggenheim isotherm. The histogram method was used to obtain the effective distributions from the grand canonical Monte Carlo simulations of H+ ion adsorption. The new approach (IAI/EAEDF) gives a much better description of the heterogeneous metal oxide/electrolyte interface than IAI/AEDF. Moreover, reduced quantities are introduced in order to compare different metal oxide/electrolyte systems in a convenient way.
Nitrogenase — hydrogenase relationships in Rhizobium japonicum

The conditions necessary for coordinate derepression of nitrogenase and O2-dependent hydrogenase activities in free-living cultures of Rhizobium japonicum were studied. Carbon sources were screened for their ability to support nitrogenase, and then hydrogenase activities. There was a positive correlation between the level of nitrogenase and corresponding hydrogenase activities among the various carbon substrates. The carbon substrate α-ketoglutarate was able to support the highest levels of both nitrogenase and hydrogenase activities. When cells were incubated in α-ketoglutarate-containing medium, without added H2 but in the presence of acetylene (to block H2 evolution from nitrogenase) significant hydrogenase activity was still observed. Complete inhibition of nitrogenase-dependent H2 evolution by acetylene was verified by the use of a Hup- mutant. Hydrogen is therefore not required to induce hydrogenase. The presence of 10% acetylene inhibited derepression of hydrogenase. Constitutive (Hupc) mutants were isolated which contained up to 9 times the level of hydrogenase acitivity than the wild type in nitrogenase induction medium. These mutants did not have greater nitrogenase activities than the wild type.
Selective postmortem degradation of inducible heat shock protein 70 (hsp70) mRNAs in rat brain.

1. Altered mRNA levels in postmortem brain tissue from persons with Alzheimer's disease (AD) or other neurological diseases are usually presumed to be characteristic of the disease state, even though both agonal state (the physiological state immediately premortem) and postmortem interval (PMI) (the time between death and harvesting the tissue) have the potential to affect levels of mRNAs measured in postmortem tissue. Although the possible effect of postmortem interval on mRNA levels has been more carefully evaluated than that of agonal state, many studies assume that all mRNAs have similar rates of degradation postmortem. 2. To determine the postmortem stability of inducible heat shock protein 70 (hsp70) mRNAs, themselves unstablein vivo at normal body temperature, rats were heat shocked in order to induce synthesis of the hsp70 mRNAs. hsp70 mRNA levels in cerebellum and cortex were then compared to those of their heat shock cognate 70 (hsc70) mRNAs, as well as to levels of 18S rRNAs, at 0 and at 24 hr postmortem. 3. Quantiation of northern blots after hybridization with an hsp70 mRNA-specific oligo probe indicated a massive loss of hsp70 mRNA signal in RNAs isolated from 24-hr postmortem brains; quantitation by slot-blot hybridization was 5- to 15-fold more efficient. Even using the latter technique, hsp70 mRNA levels were reduced by 59% in 24-hr-postmortem cerebellum and by 78% in cortex compared to mRNA levels in the same region of 0-hr-postmortem brain. There was little reduction postmortem in levels of the hsp70 mRNAs or of 18S rRNAs in either brain region. 4.In situ hybridization analysis indicated that hsp70 mRNAs were less abundant in all major classes of cerebellar cells after 24 hr postmortem and mRNAs had degraded severalfold more rapidly in neurons than in glia. There was no corresponding loss of intracellular 18S rRNA in any cell type. 5. We conclude from these results that the effect of postmortem interval on mRNA degradation must be carefully evaluated when analyzing levels of inducible hsp70 mRNAs, and perhaps other short-lived mRNAs, in human brain.
Aortic Valve Interstitial Cell Activation Does Not Occur at Low Tissue Stiffness During Embryogenesis

An estimated 2.5 percent of the American population has heart valve (HV) disease and more than 100,000 US patients require a prosthetic valve replacement each year [1]. However, prosthetic valves can cause accelerated calcification leading to recurrence of HV disease in patients [2]. Thus, the development of a suitable tissue-engineered heart valve (TEHV) would greatly benefit patients with HV disease. Aortic valve interstitial cells (AVICs) play a crucial role in the progression of aortic valve disease as well as the maintenance of normal valve. Therefore, in order to design a suitable TEHV, these specialized cells need to be better understood. AVICs are known to synthesize ECM and express matrix degrading enzymes and their inhibitors that mediate and regulate remodeling of ECM components [3]. Interestingly, it was recently established that AVICs sense the stiffness of their surrounding ECM in vivo and are phenotypically responsive to mechanical cues with AVICs differentiating into myofibroblasts or osteoblasts, which are pathologic markers. Specifically, soft collagen gels (∼34kPa) caused less differentiation of AVICs than stiffer collagen gel (∼100kPa) [4]. However, for these experiments the AVICs were cultured on tissue culture polystyrene (TCPS) for at least one passage, and it is likely that AVICs cultured on TCPS might retain modified characteristics of AVICs in tissue prior to seed them on soft gels because of the memory to rigid substrate stiffness. Therefore, in this study, we examined the phenotype and function of AVICs on substrates that mimic ECM stiffness of adult leaflet as well as of developing embryo. In addition, we examine the effects of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) which has been the most extensively studied cytokine initiator of fibrotic response of AVICs.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
MR imaging contrast agents — what's in a name?

The purpose of this brief review is to reduce the confusion surrounding the nomenclature of MRI contrast agents. There are several different categories of contrast agents for potential use in human diagnosis and several alternative names for each contrast agent, an array of choices that actually changes over time. This review describes the general process by which these various agents are named, presents one general categorization by which these agents can be considered, and provides a concise table to which readers can refer to identify the proper name to use for each of the agents that has thus far been administered to humans.
Experimental study of indoor and outdoor airborne bacterial concentrations in Tempe, Arizona, USA

Indoor and outdoor airborne bacterialconcentrations were examined in an occupiedoffice building equipped with an airconditioning (HVAC) system, in Tempe, Arizona,USA. A two-stage microbial air sampler wasused to collect bacteria both inside andoutside the office at fixed locations in space,and at regular time intervals from August toDecember, 2000. Simultaneous measurement ofbacterial concentrations, temperature, relativehumidity, light intensity and wind speed wereperformed to explore the effects ofenvironmental factors on bacteria levels. Tengenera and twenty species of airborne bacteriawere found in our samples. AirborneGram-positive bacteria were most abundant, withmore than 90% of the measured population. Theparticle sizes of most outdoor and indoorairborne bacterial aerosols were larger than8.0 μm. According to the measurements ofeither a typical day or three consecutive days,the concentrations of outdoor airborne bacteriawere highest in the morning, but declined inthe afternoon and reached the lowest point inthe evening. With regard to the effects offour environmental factors – temperature,relative humidity, light intensity, and windspeed, the relative humidity had the mostpronounced influence on the outdoor bacterialconcentration, with the number of bacteriaincreasing sharply on a day of high relativehumidity.
Developing gerontological competency: a curriculum approach.

This study describes a competency-based educational approach to course development, implementation, and evaluation. The course model is presented, including its philosophical base. The authors hypothesized that student participation in a competency-based graduate gerontology course would increase their perceived competency level. Results indicate that students (N = 74 students; 2008–2011) rated their competency skill level as higher at posttest than at the pretest (paired t-tests, p < .01), as measured by the Geriatric Social Work Competency Scale II. In addition, pretest/posttest results on the Myths of Aging checklist and Expectations Regarding Aging survey supported increases of perceived knowledge of older adults at posttest (p < .01). This project illustrates the benefits of organizing and implementing competency-based curriculum so that students are better prepared to work with older adults when they graduate.
Acute effects of mitoxantrone on the template activity of isolated nuclei from the T-47D human breast tumor cell line

The effect of mitoxantrone on the template activity of nuclei isolated from the T-47D human breast tumor cell line was investigated. The results suggest that mitoxantrone significantly inhibits total RNA synthesis of these nuclei in a concentration-dependent manner. At low drug concentrations (10(-9) M and 10(-7) M) RNA synthesis was inhibited by 21.9% and 41% compared to control values, respectively. Greater inhibition was observed when the mitoxantrone concentration was increased to 10(-5) M or 10(-4) M (56% and 77%, respectively). Experiments utilizing alpha-amanitin revealed that mitoxantrone inhibits RNA polymerase II activity in a concentration-dependent manner.
Towing tank PIV measurement system, data and uncertainty assessment for DTMB Model 5512

A towed PIV system designed by DANTEC Measurement Technology for the Iowa Institute of Hydraulic Research towing tank is commissioned by measuring the mean velocity and Reynolds stresses at the nominal-wake plane of a model-scale ship. The mean velocities are compared with previous 5-hole pitot probe data. Uncertainty assessment following standard procedures is used to quantify the comparisons and reach conclusions regarding the quality of the data. The PIV results are analyzed with regard to axial velocity defects, axial vorticity, and level, pattern and anisotropy of turbulence. Quantitative comparisons with 5-hole pitot data shows that PIV uncertainties are about 1% lower than those for 5-hole pitot. However, data differences are larger than RSS of PIV and 5-hole pitot uncertainties for the axial and vertical velocity components, indicating unaccounted for bias and precision limits. The bias error of the pitot probe in a shear flow is discussed, and a method for reducing the bias error is suggested. The data is being used for verification and validation of RANS simulation of DTMB Model 5512.
Am I cured from cancer? A physician's personal experience.

Five years ago I was diagnosed with hypopharyngeal carcinoma. Yet even after the cancer had been successfully treated by local excision and radiation, it was difficult to completely free myself from the apprehension that the disease would return. This fear actually materialized when I had a local recurrence 20 months later which required a total laryngectomy. Even though I had been examined once a month and had periodic diagnostic PET and CT scans, all of these failed to detect the recurrence until the tumor was large enough to be detected by endoscopy. Despite the fact that my surgeons assured me that, after having a laryngectomy, my chances for recurrence were small, like other physicians who were faced with cancer [1, 2], my anxiety and fear did not disappear. For a while, I was afraid to make long-term plans. When confronted with simple tasks like responding to mail, writing a manuscript, or fulfilling a promise, I tried to do each task promptly, just in case I were to get sick again. I am still apprehensive whenever I get my follow-up PET and MRI scans, and I still anxiously await the results. I sense great relief when these scans do not show new findings and feel that I have been granted a temporary lease on life—until the next tests are scheduled. My life has become a series of intervals of relative calm until the next set of scans. Whenever I experience new symptoms, I fear the worst case scenario. I wonder if the headache or sore throat or unexplained swelling is the manifestation of the cancer, once lying in wait, now appearing locally or spreading systemically. My fear is only relieved after I undergo thorough medical evaluation. What helps me cope with my worries is that I try to first wait a few days before seeking medical help unless there is an urgent problem. Fortunately, the majority of my problems and symptoms seem to disappear within this time. I also learned not to panic but to use my past experiences to rationalize and understand new symptoms and to convince myself to wait patiently for my next medical appointment. Although I will never be completely free of the fear of cancer's return, I am hopeful that living with the uncertainty will become easier over time. I hope to adjust to the uncertainty of my future and to find a balance between fear and acceptance. Living with an uncertain future affects the way I approach patients with serious illnesses and, I believe, has made me more sensitive and understanding. I speak now as someone who shares with my patients the uncertainty of the future and sharing my way of coping seems to help them. As a laryngectomee, my medical history is always on display in the way I look and speak. By being able to continue to help others through teaching and working, I hope to convey a message to those who face serious illness that there are ways of coping with the fear that the disease will return.
Before Animal Sacrifice, A Myth of Innocence

Animal sacrifice was one of the most pervasive and socially significant practices of Graeco-Roman religion. Yet, numerous Greek and Latin writers tell of a golden before the advent of sacrifice and meat eating. In this idealized world, humans lived at one with the gods and animal sacrifice did not exist. Such texts are often seen as part of a wider ancient critique of Greco-Roman religion in general and animal sacrifice in particular. This interpretive model, largely sprung from Christian theologizing, sees animal sacrifice as a meaningless and base act, destined to be superseded. As a result of this 'critique model', scholars have not asked what the myth of a world without sacrifice means in a world in which sacrifice predominated. This paper seeks to correct the above view by analyzing these texts as instances of created myth. It approaches each occurrence of the myth as an instance of position-taking by a player in the field of cultural production. The paper seeks to further a redescription of Greco-Roman antiquity by revealing the variety of ancient positions on sacrifice and their strategic use by competing cultural producers.
Polyomavirus BK infection in blood and marrow transplant recipients

The association of BK virus infection with hemorrhagic cystitis in blood and marrow transplant (BMT) recipients was first demonstrated two decades ago. During this time, therapeutic interventions focused on supportive measures such as hyperhydration, continuous bladder irrigation and topical administration of agents that alter the mucosal surface of the bladder wall. In recent years, PCR amplification of viral DNA in the urine and plasma has solidified the association of BK virus infection with hemorrhagic cystitis, demonstrating that higher urine and plasma viral loads occur in the setting of disease. The evaluation of virus-specific therapy has lagged behind assessment of the viral load and theories of pathogenesis. Extrapolating from successes in the treatment of BK virus nephropathy in the renal transplant population, cidofovir and leflunomide are identified as potential effective agents for the treatment of BK virus-associated hemorrhagic cystitis. The fluoroquinolone antibiotics may prove to be effective as prophylactic agents. Given the manifestation of BK virus infection in organs outside of the urinary tract in an increasing immunocompromised patient population and the availability of potential antiviral agents, therapeutic trials need to progress beyond the small case series in order to improve the morbidity and mortality caused by BK virus-associated hemorrhagic cystitis in the BMT population.
Dimensions of Observability

There is an aspect of the practice of philosophy which involves describing some important and frequently used term by specification of necessary and sufficient conditions for the proper use of the term. Much of epistemology, for example, is engaged in articulating an accurate description of “knowledge”. And with an accurate description is the implication of accurate and inaccurate, or right and wrong uses of the word. This approach to understanding the concept takes on a normative tint by which some immutable, prescribed meaning of a term must be respected.
Classifying human cancer by analysis of gene expression

With the development and application of DNA microarrays, the expression of almost all human genes can now be systematically examined in human malignancies. This can lead to the identification of candidate molecular targets for therapeutic intervention and biomarkers for early detection of these diseases. However, perhaps the most exciting result to come from this research has been the demonstration that patterns of gene expression can distinguish between tumors of different anatomical origin, and define new subgroups of cancer with similar histological appearance, but distinct molecular profiles. Some of these new molecular subclasses of tumor appear to correlate with clinical behavior. If substantiated in larger studies, this might form a basis for stratifying patients so that they receive optimal therapeutic treatment and follow-up.
Immune response in patients with persistent candiduria and occult candidemia.

ABSTRACTPurpose: We evaluated the immunological response in patients with persistent candiduria with or without occult candidemia.Materials and Methods: Levels of Th1 (pro-inflammatory interleukin [IL]-1, IL-2 and tumor necrosis factor-α) and Th2 (anti-inflammatory IL-4 and IL-10) cytokines were measured in the sera of patients with persistent candiduria. Polymerase chain reaction assessment of the 158 base pair candidal actin gene was used to detect Candida albicans in blood to identify occult candidemia.Results: During a 14-month period 66 hospitalized patients with a mean age of 63 years (range 44 to 80) with persistent candiduria were evaluated. Occult candidemia developed in 27 patients (41%) as evidenced by detection of candidal actin gene in the sera by polymerase chain reaction. Risk factors included antibiotics in 27 patients (100%), central venous catheter in 22 (81%), urinary catheter in 21 (78%), total parenteral nutrition in 18 (66%), diabetes mellitus in 16 (59%) and abdominal surgery in 14 ...
Risk of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus surgical site infection in patients with nasal MRSA colonization.

Background Patients colonized with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) are at increased risk for invasive infection compared with noncolonized patients; however, the magnitude of risk for MRSA surgical site infection (SSI) is unclear. To aid in planning of infection prevention strategies, we sought to assess the incidence of MRSA SSI in MRSA carriers. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study at our tertiary care center of inpatients who underwent MRSA polymerase chain reaction (PCR) screen of the nares within 30 days before a National Healthcare Safety Network principal procedure between April 2008 and July 2010. Results The rate of MRSA SSI was 1.86% in the MRSA PCR-positive group (n = 431) and 0.20% in the MRSA PCR-negative group (n = 9432). Multivariate analysis identified MRSA PCR-positive status as an independent risk factor for MRSA SSI (odds ratio, 9.20; 95% confidence interval, 3.81-20.47; P Conclusions Surgical patients with a positive nasal MRSA PCR screen had a 9-fold greater odds of developing a subsequent MRSA SSI compared with patients with a negative nasal MRSA PCR screen. The incidence of MRSA SSI in PCR-positive patients was low (1.86%), however, and identifying subsets of patients at greatest risk for SSI may help target decolonization and other interventions.