cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
DEVELOPMENT OF DOPAMINE-BETA-HYDROXYLASE-POSITIVE FIBER INNERVATION IN CO-CULTURED HIPPOCAMPUS-LOCUS COERULEUS ORGANOTYPIC SLICES

Development of the noradrenergic innervation of the rat hippocampus by the nucleus locus coeruleus was examined immunohistochemically in the roller tube organotypic cultured slice preparation. Slices of rat hippocampus and locus coeruleus were co-cultured on glass coverslips for 2-6 weeks and evaluated for the presence of dopamine-beta-hydroxylase (DBH) and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) immunoreactive cells and fibers. Large, multipolar DBH- and TH-positive cells were visible within the locus coeruleus; an occasional cell appeared near or just within co-cultured hippocampal tissue and in connecting fiber tracts. DBH-positive cells tended to concentrate near the edges of locus coeruleus tissue. Locus coeruleus slices cultured alone showed little indication of fiber outgrowth in any direction. In co-cultures, however, beaded DBH- and TH-positive fibers were directed toward the hippocampus. The majority of these fibers entered the hippocampus in the hilar/CA3 region and formed extensive collateral branches. Light microscopy suggests that DBH-positive fiber growth was densest at or near the pyramidal cell layer in CA3b and CA3c and in the infragranular region of the dentate hilus. This pattern of noradrenergic innervation of hippocampus by co-cultured locus coeruleus in vitro appears very similar to the pattern established in vivo (see Moudy et al., companion article, this issue).
The optimal time to stain for noncytopathic bovine virus diarrhea field sample virus using indirect fluorescent antibody technique.

Abstract The use of an indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) technique has been further explored to determine the optimum day(s) to stain for a noncytopathic bovine virus diarrhea virus from pooled and individual field samples. The IFA test further confirmed that under the experimental conditions of this study, somewhere between days 4 and 5 would be an optimum time to stain for a noncytopathic BVD virus which was present in tissues of suspected animals and diluted with minimal essential media.
Fabrication and patterning surface conductive porous glass

Electro-conductive indium tin oxide coatings have been deposited on porous glass without significant reduction in the porosity or transparency of the substrate. Typical films are ∼ 3 μm thickness with a sheet resistance of 1.0 kΩ and a light transmittance of > 85% in the 400 to 1200 nm region. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction show that the films are crystalline with particle size of about 20 nm. Patterning conductive regions has been demonstrated by photopatterning a photoresist onto the indium tin oxide film and acid-etching of the unprotected region.
Medieval Harrowings of Hell and Spenser's House of Mammon

AbstractThis article investigates Spenser's literary antecedents in order to provide a fresh interpretation of a controversial canto and a broader perspective on The Faerie Queene as a whole. Guyon's descent into the House of Mammon in II.vii. has long been read as a version of Christ's Harrowing of Hell. But too little attention has been paid to the sources of this legend. Spenser's retelling is indebted to two major accounts of the Harrowing in Middle English literature: the mystery cycles and Langland's Vision of Piers Plowman. These works share with The Faerie Queene the conception of Christ as a knight who descends to battle the forces of the underworld. More particularly they form the basis of Spenser's reworking of the story as a comic episode, in which a guileful but overconfident tempter is outwitted by his more resourceful prey. This interpretation of the myth asserts the power of human nature to turn its vulnerability into a tactical advantage against a Satanic tempter. Such a reading must act ...
Phase 2 study of rituximab-ABVD in classical Hodgkin lymphoma

In classical Hodgkin lymphoma, circulating clonotypic malignant cells express CD20, which potentially explains the observed activity of rituximab. This multicenter phase 2 study investigated the combination of rituximab-ABVD (doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine, dacarbazine) for stage II-IV untreated classical Hodgkin lymphoma. A goal was to assess the behavior of circulating clonotypic B cells clinically. Of 49 evaluable patients, 69% had stage IIB-IV disease; 8% had CD20+ Hodgkin and Reed-Sternberg cells. Rituximab-ABVD was generally well tolerated. Delivered relative dose intensity was 94% for AVD and 79% for bleomycin. After 6 cycles, 81% of patients were in complete remission. Only 8% received radiation therapy. The actuarial 3-year event-free and overall survival rates were 83% and 98%, respectively. EBV copy number in plasma fell dramatically during cycle 1 in patients with EBV+ tumors. Persistence of detectable circulating clonotypic B cells was associated with a greater relapse frequency ( P < .05). Rituximab-ABVD and clonotypic B cells warrant additional study in classical Hodgkin lymphoma. This trial was registered at [www.clinicaltrials.gov][1] as [NCT00369681][2]. [1]: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov [2]: /lookup/external-ref?link_type=CLINTRIALGOV&access_num=NCT00369681&atom=%2Fbloodjournal%2F119%2F18%2F4129.atom
Can 'blocking' serum factors protect against autoimmunity.

HUMANS and laboratory animals carrying progressively growing tumours possess, as a rule, lymphocytes capable of specifically destroying their own neoplastic cells in vitro1. Sera from the tumour-bearers can specifically block that destructive effect2. The nature of the blocking factors is unknown, but there is some evidence that they are complexes between antigen released by the tumour and antibodies formed by the host3. They can be removed from serum by absorption with the appropriate tumour cell type3.
Interaction of Gibberellic Acid and Photo-period on the Vegetative Growth of Pinus elliottii

CONIFERS have not been very responsive to treatment with gibberellic acid. A definite stimulation of extension growth was obtained by Marth et al. 1 in only two of the five species investigated, Pinus virginiana Mill., and Juniperus chinensis f. Pfitzeriana Spaeth. Measurable, but not significant, increases in height growth of treated Pinus strobus L. have been reported2. Radicles of germinating seeds of Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco elongated more rapidly if wetted with weak solutions of gibberellic acid3.
NUCLEAR PROCESSES AND ACCELERATED PARTICLES IN SOLAR FLARES

Nuclear processes and particle acceleration in solar flares are reviewed. The theory of gamma-ray and neutron production is discussed and results of calculations are compared to gamma-ray, neutron, and charged-particle observations from solar flares. The implications of these comparisons on particle energy spectra, total numbers, anisotropies, electron-to-proton ratios, as well as on acceleration mechanisms and the interaction site, are presented. The information on elemental and isotopic abundances derived from gamma-ray observations is compared to abundances obtained from escaping accelerated particles and other sources.
Electron microscope studies of glycogen synthase.

Glycogen synthase from rabbit muscle was examined with the electron microscope. In preparations of the completely converted glucose-6-phosphate dependent form (GSD) and the independent form (GSI) three structures were observed: toroids, hexagons and stacks of four elements which appear to be aggregates of four toroids. Toroids can be formed from hexagons by radial inward movement of subunits which form the vertices of the hexagons. Analysis of the dimensions of these structures and comparison of the known chemistry of the enzyme to the subunits as inferred from electron microscopy suggests a model for the structure of glycogen synthase. The model allows predictions of types of subunits in the enzyme, their relation to phosphorylatable and -SH sites and the possibilities of control by small effector molecules.
The Role of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in the Management of Infants with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

Many infants with CDH can be managed with conventional mechanical ventilation and pharmacotherapy. However, some infants will require levels of ventilator support that are not compatible with survival. In these circumstances, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has been used with varying results. The indication, type, and timing of ECMO in relation to surgery continue to evolve in an attempt to improve the outcome. At the same time, there is growing body of literature showing adverse outcomes among infants with CDH treated with ECMO, raising questions about the usefulness of ECMO in CDH. This paper reviews some of the controversies associated with the use of ECMO in CDH.
Atomic arrangement and electronic structure of BC 2 N

The results of a pseudopotential local-orbital calculation on the recently synthesized hybrid of graphite and hexagonal BN, ${\mathrm{BC}}_{2}$N, are presented. Three possible atomic arrangements in the ${\mathrm{BC}}_{2}$N monolayer, representing a variety of nearest-neighbor environments, are studied. For the monolayer structures considered, the one which maximizes chemical bond strength has the lowest total energy. The electronic structures of the three models are also investigated, and a correlation between the structural symmetries and the conducting properties of the models is found. In particular, the two structures which lack inversion symmetry are found to have semiconducting gaps, while the one with inversion symmetry is found to be metallic. This behavior is similar to the relation of graphite to BN. Of the inspected structures, the one with the lowest energy displays a local-density-approximation (LDA) gap of about 1.6 eV, which is expected to decrease upon stacking of the semiconducting monolayers.
A Macroscopic Gas Breakdown Relationship

The design and construction of accelerators in the 100-terawatt class have significantly increased the demands placed on gas and liquid switching.1 The 100-terawatt PBFA II (Particle Beam Fusion Accelerator) uses 36 separate modules. Each module includes a Marx generator, a water-insulated energy store, a laser-triggered 5-MV switch, a 5-MV charge water pulse-forming line, and multiple self-breakdown megavolt water pulse sharpening switches. The resultant electrical pulse formed by PBFA II has subnanosecond syncronization in the main diode. During the analysis of the PBFA switching data, a scaling law was found that has implications for switch research and development.
Cytosolic Branched Chain Aminotransferase (BCATc) Regulates mTORC1 Signaling and Glycolytic Metabolism in CD4+ T Cells

Here we show that expression of the cytosolic branched chain aminotransferase (BCATc) is triggered by the T cell receptor (TCR) of CD4+ T cells. Induction of BCATc correlates with increased Leu transamination, whereas T cells from the BCATc−/− mouse exhibit lower Leu transamination and higher intracellular Leu concentrations than the cells from wild type (WT) mice. Induction of BCATc by TCR in WT cells is prevented by the calcineurin-nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) inhibitor, cyclosporin A (CsA), suggesting that NFAT controls BCATc expression. Leu is a known activator of the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1). mTOR is emerging as a critical regulator of T cell activation, differentiation, and metabolism. Activated T cells from BCATc−/− mice show increased phosphorylation of mTORC1 downstream targets, S6 and 4EBP-1, indicating higher mTORC1 activation than in T cells from WT mice. Furthermore, T cells from BCATc−/− mice display higher rates of glycolysis, glycolytic capacity, and glycolytic reserve when compared with activated WT cells. These findings reveal BCATc as a novel regulator of T cell activation and metabolism and highlight the important role of Leu metabolism in T cells.
Mapping of ozone and water in the atmosphere of Mars near the 1997 aphelion

Abstract We present absolute abundances and latitudinal variations of ozone and water in the atmosphere of Mars during its late northern spring ( L s =67.3°) shortly before aphelion. Long-slit maps of the a 1 Δ g state of molecular oxygen (O 2 ) and HDO, an isotopic form of water, were acquired on UT January 21.6 1997 using a high-resolution infrared spectrometer (CSHELL) at the NASA Infrared Telescope Facility. O 2 (a 1 Δ g ) is produced by ozone photolysis, and the ensuing dayglow emission at 1.27 μm is used as a tracer for ozone. Retrieved vertical column densities for ozone above ∼20 km ranged between 1.5 and 2.8 μm-atm at mid- to low latitudes (30°S–60°N) and decreased outside that region. A significant decrease in ozone density is seen near 30°N (close to the subsolar latitude of 23.5°N). The rotational temperatures retrieved from O 2 (a–X) emissions show a mean of 172±2.5 K, confirming that the sensed ozone lies in the middle atmosphere (∼24 km). The ν 1 fundamental band of HDO near 3.67 μm was used as a proxy for H 2 O. The retrieved vertical column abundance of water varies from 3 precipitable microns (pr-μm) at ∼30°S to 24 pr-μm at ∼60°N. We compare these results with current photochemical models and with measurements obtained by other methods.
Hepatic binding protein: the protective role of its sialic acid residues

Removal of sialic acid from a specific hepatic binding protein virtually abolishes its capacity to bind certain asialoglycoproteins. The loss of this capacity is the result of competition for the binding sites by galactosyl residues, of hepatic binding protein, that become terminal after desialylation.
The Dynamics of "Sprint" Running

The Greatest Allowable Speed of Movement .—Consider a series of “similar animals ” of different size and let the linear dimensions of any individual of the series be chacterised by the length l . Let M be the mass of one of its limbs, and v the greatest velocity it can attain in that limb. Then the momentum of the limb is proportional to M v . Now this momentum is created at the beginning of a movement, or destroyed at the end of a movement, by a force F acting for a time t ; and we may write, neglecting constants, M v = F t . Now t , the time occupied in producing or checking a movement, is proportional to l/v , while M is proportional to l 3, so that, again neglecting constants, l 3 = F l / v .
Perioperative care of a child with Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy during posterior spinal fusion

Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy (UCMD) is one of a group of disorders known as congenital muscular dystrophies. Severe hypotonia and early diaphragmatic involvement may lead to respiratory failure early in the disease process. We present the case of a nine-year-old with UCMD who required operative intervention for progressive scoliosis. In these patients, anaesthetic issues relate to difficulties with endotracheal intubation, as well as the potential for postoperative respiratory failure, given early diaphragmatic involvement. As with other types of muscular dystrophy, succinylcholine is absolutely contraindicated, while a prolonged effect may be seen following routine doses of nondepolarising neuromuscular blocking agents. Additional perioperative concerns relate to the surgical procedure primarily, including tailoring the intraoperative anaesthetic to facilitate neurophysiological monitoring, as well as the use of techniques to limit intraoperative blood loss. The perioperative management of patients with UCMD is discussed and options for intraoperative anaesthetic care are reviewed.
When science is “another world”: Relationships between worlds of family, friends, school, and science

The purpose of this article is twofold: to describe a model for understanding how students' responses to science are related to the degree of congruency between their worlds of family, friends, school, and science; and to explore the implications of this model for practice and policy in science education. The study focuses on the meaning-perspectives of students to understand how they differentially experience school science. On the basis of classroom observations, teacher recommendation, and students' willingness, 43 high school science students were interviewed to gain information on their perceptions of school and science, the importance and influence of friends on these perceptions, and family conditions that were significant to their lives. Through the identification of five distinctive patterns regarding the relationship between personal experiences and success in school and science, this study draws attention to the necessity of curriculum and school practices that facilitate the integration of students' multiple worlds. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons. Inc.
National Political Community and Ethnicity: Evidence from Two Latin American Countries

The political community is the social basis for modern democracies. A strong political community is particularly difficult to achieve when different social cleavages, such as ethnic identities, “divide” society into more or less stable and mutually exclusive groups. At the same time, inequality in the distribution of income and property can generate class-based cleavages. Using survey data from Bolivia and Guatemala, this paper focuses on the effect of ethnicity on the strength of citizens’ attachment to their nations. Findings suggest that ethnicity has a relevant effect on the way people feel about the nation only when ethnic differences are consistent with socioeconomic cleavages, but socioeconomic differences have an effect that is independent from other factors.
Deglycosylation of mAb by EndoS for improved molecular imaging.

Purpose Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have been shown preclinically as reliable targeting moieties for antigen imaging using near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) molecular imaging. However, crystallizable fragment-gamma receptor (FcγRs) expressed on immune cells also bind mAbs through defined epitopes on the constant fragment (Fc) of IgG. Herein, we evaluate the potential impact Fc interactions have on mAb agent imaging specificity.
Training: tackling the task of reeling them in

IT Training and Communications is a division of Information Technology Services of Saint Louis University. In response to university-wide adoption of a new education portal called Luminus, developed by the Society for Technical Communication (SCT), we were asked to provide training to the entire faculty and staff population. This training challenge may be an easy task for a training department with dozens of instructors, but we were a department of two people. What a task to tackle!Where do you begin when the whole University is learning a new administrative system that incorporates email, calendar, news and information? Communication! We met with project leaders and portal developers to discuss the role our department could and would play in the rollout of this new essential communication portal. These discussions led to several questions that quickly came to the table.We were able to write training manuals by our own testing of the portal and by using documentation from the vendor. While the vendor's information was technically correct, we felt there was a strong need for a common-language approach, along with addition of various screen shots to define more difficult steps. We also felt it was important to "brand" the portal to reflect the look and feel of Saint Louis University rather than the generic look of the vendor.This paper will discuss the challenges of working with multiple stakeholders of a large project, narrowing our scope of service, and enlisting assistance from other departments to ensure a successful launch of a new university-wide portal.
Tuberculous Pseudoaneurysms of the Thoracic Aorta Comprehensive Evaluation by Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance

A 16-year-old girl from an area in Brazil where tuberculosis was endemic was admitted because of recurrent chest pain, progressive dyspnea with exertion, and inability to climb more than 1 flight of stairs. She described fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, and adenopathy of her right axilla and neck during the previous 3 months. On admission she looked distressed, with a heart rate of 76 bpm and blood pressure of 110/55 mm Hg. The ECG demonstrated sinus rhythm with first-degree heart block (Figure 1). Figure 1. First-degree atrioventricular block on ECG. Her admission chest radiograph demonstrated cardiomegaly with pulmonary edema (Figure 2). Her cardiac enzymes were negative. The patient underwent cardiac evaluation with 2-dimensional echocardiography (not shown), which revealed an interatrial septal mass, mild tricuspid regurgitation, preserved systolic function, and moderate pericardial effusion. Figure 2. Chest radiograph showing cardiomegaly and pulmonary congestive features after admission to intensive care unit. For further characterization of the mass, cardiovascular …
Parents: Critical Stakeholders in Expanding Newborn Screening

ysosomal storage diseases (LSD) are rare genetic conditions that can affect individuals at different stages of life. Hunter Kelly (February 14, 1997 to August 5, 2005), the son of former Buffalo Bills quarterback Jim Kelly, died of complications from infantile Krabbe disease, one of the LSDs. Bone marrow transplantation can sometimes slow down the progressive neurologic symptoms caused by Krabbe disease. Mr Kelly advocated that the New York State Public Health Department screen for Krabbe disease to diagnose it early enough that bone marrow transplantation is an option. In August 2006, New York implemented Krabbe screening into its mandatory screening program. In Illinois, in 2005, Bob and Sonya Evanosky successfully lobbied the Illinois legislature to mandate screening for 5 LSDs to be incorporated into its mandatory newborn screening program, including Krabbe disease, Pompe disease, and Fabry disease. This screening was to begin within 6 months after the establishment and verification of relevant and appropriate performance specifications; the availability of quality assurance testing methodology for these processes; and the establishment of precise threshold values ensuring defined disorder identification for each screening test. Since then, the Evanosky Foundation has convinced the Illinois legislature to add 2 additional LSDs to the mandatory newborn screening program. Through their advocacy organization, they have also lobbied for LSD screening in Missouri and New Mexico. The reports from New York should make us think twice about the clinical value of LSD screening and question the political approach to expand screening that circumvents a more evidence-based public health approach. New York was not the first jurisdiction to perform newborn screening for LSD. Both Taiwan and Italy have had research protocols to study the feasibility and utility of screening for Pompe disease (Taiwan) and Fabry disease (Taiwan and Italy). In all cases, the implementation was performed with parental consent, and the protocols underwent review by a human subjects protection committee (known as an institutional review board [IRB]). In contrast, New York implemented screening into mandatory screening, which does not require parental consent, let alone parental notification. No IRB was involved. We learned a lot from the New York experience. Data from the Hunter’s Hope Registry suggested that 90% of cases
VITAMIN D STIMULATES PROLACTIN SYNTHESIS BY CH4C1 CELLS INCUBATED IN CHEMICALLY DEFINED MEDIUM

GH4C1 cells were evaluated as a model system for the investigation of the cellular and molecular mode of action of vitamin D. When cells were incubated in hormone-free, chemically defined medium, the metabolite 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25-(OH)2D3) potently stimulated PRL synthesis (ED50 = 2 x 10(-10) M) with minimal effects on GH synthesis. The stimulation of PRL synthesis was vitamin D metabolite specific. The effect of 1,25-(OH)2D3 was dependent on the addition of extracellular calcium in the concentration range up to 0.1 mM. These results indicate the potential usefulness of this experimental system for the study of vitamin D action.
Fourteen-year longitudinal study of vascular risk factors, APOE genotype, and cognition: The ARIC MRI Study

Abstract Background Strokes, vascular risk factors, and apolipoprotein E ( APOE ) genotype are associated with cognitive decline in the elderly, but definitive evidence that these affect cognition as early as middle age is limited. Objective We describe the relationships of APOE genotype, stroke, and vascular risk factors with cognitive change over a 14-year follow-up in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study cohort recruited while in middle age. Methods Participants included a subset of the ARIC Study who underwent assessments of cognitive function and vascular risk factors. Four cognitive assessments were performed between 1990–1992 and 2004–2006. Cognitive assessments included the Delayed Word Recall (DWR) Test, the Digit Symbol Substitution (DSS) Test, and the Word Fluency (WF) Test. Vascular risk factors were assessed during the baseline visit in 1990–1992. Incident stroke was recorded over the 14 years of follow-up. Results There were 1130 participants (mean age, 59 ± 4.3 [SD] years; 62% women; 52% African-American) with longitudinal data. In multivariate, random-effects linear models adjusted for age, education, gender, and race, the risk factors diabetes and APOE ɛ4 genotype were independently associated with a decline in performance on the DSS test (both P APOE ɛ4 genotype were independent predictors of decline (both P P Conclusions The vascular risk factors diabetes and hypertension, a history of stroke itself, and APOE ɛ4 genotype independently contribute to cognitive decline in late middle age and early elderly years.
Doxycycline loaded poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogels for healing vesicant-induced ocular wounds

Half mustard (CEES) and nitrogen mustard (NM) are commonly used surrogates and vesicant analogs of the chemical warfare agent sulfur mustard. In the current study, in situ forming poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-based doxycycline hydrogels are developed and evaluated for their wound healing efficacy in CEES and NM-exposed rabbit corneas in organ culture. The hydrogels, characterized by UV-Vis spectrophotometry, rheometry, and swelling kinetics, showed that the hydrogels are optically transparent, have good mechanical strength and a relatively low degree of swelling (<7%). In vitro doxycycline release from the hydrogel disks (0.25% w/v) was found to be biphasic with release half times of approximately 12 and 72h, respectively, with 80-100% released over a 7-day period. Permeation of doxycycline through vesicant wounded corneas was found to be 2.5 to 3.4 fold higher than non-wounded corneas. Histology and immunofluorescence studies showed a significant reduction of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and improved healing of vesicant-exposed corneas by doxycycline hydrogels compared to a similar dose of doxycycline delivered in phosphate buffered saline (PBS, pH 7.4). In conclusion, the current studies demonstrate that the doxycycline-PEG hydrogels accelerate corneal wound healing after vesicant injury offering a therapeutic option for ocular mustard injuries.
Impacto presupuestario de un programa de deshabituación tabáquico en empresas

espanolObjetivo: Estimar el impacto presupuestario de un programa de deshabituacion tabaquica en la empresa. Metodos: se desarrollo un modelo para simular una empresa de 1000 trabajadores, con un horizonte temporal de 3 anos. Se considero que la prevalencia media de fumadores era del 26% y que el 70% estaria dispuesto a dejar de fumar (datos nacionales publicados). Las tasas de cesacion a un ano se obtuvieron de ensayos clinicos (21% para vareniclina, 13% para bupropion, 12% para TSN y 7% para consejo/seguimiento) y se considero que el 25% de los fumadores recibirian cada una de estas terapias. Se incluyeron los costes derivados del programa (tratamientos y puesta en marcha/seguimiento) y los ahorros producidos por la mejoria en el absentismo y la productividad laboral. Resultados: La inversion que tendria que realizar la empresa para poner en marcha este programa (54.794€) se recuperaria practicamente en un ano. Tras tres anos, los ahorros totales para la empresa llegarian a los 85.445€; 4.092€ por cada trabajador que consigue dejar de fumar. Conclusiones: La implementacion de un programa de deshabituacion tabaquica en empresa reportaria no solo beneficios en salud sino importantes beneficios economicos a partir del primer ano. EnglishObjective: To estimate the budgetary impact of a smoking cessation programme in a company. Methods: A model was developed to simulate a 1000–employee company, with a time horizon of 3 years. 26% of smoking prevalence was considered; 70% of smokers would be willing to quit (published national data). The smoking cessation rates where obtained from clinical trials (21% for varenicline, 13% for bupropion, 12% for NST and 7% for advice/counselling) and it was considered that the 25% of the smokers would take each of the therapies. The costs derived from the programme (treatment and initiation/counselling) and the savings due to the improvement in the work absenteeism and productivity were included. Results: The investment that the company would need for starting up the program (€54,794) would be almost recovered in one year. After the third year, the total savings for the company would rise to €85,445; €4,092 for each employee who achieves to quit smoking. Conclusions: The implementation of a smoking cessation programme would result in health benefits for the employees as well as savings for the company after the first year.
Impact of human D398N single nucleotide polymorphism on intracellular calcium response mediated by α3β4α5 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors.

Abstract The human CHRNA5 D398N polymorphism (rs16969968) causes an aspartic acid to asparagine change in the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) α5 subunit gene. The N398 variant of CHRNA5 is linked to increased risk for nicotine dependence. In this study, we explored the effect of the CHRNA5 D398N polymorphism on the properties of human α3β4* nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells. Addition of either D398 or N398 variant of α5 subunit in the α3β4* receptor did not affect total [ 125 I]-epibatidine binding or surface expression of the receptor. However, addition of α5 D398 into α3β4* receptor decreased the maximal response to agonist without significantly affecting EC 50 in aequorin intracellular calcium assay. α3β4α5 N398 nAChRs showed further decreased maximal response. The differences in agonist efficacy between the receptor subtypes were found to be dependent upon the concentration of external calcium but independent of external sodium. Moreover, activation of α3β4α5 nAChRs led to significantly greater intracellular calcium release from IP 3 stores relative to α3β4 nAChRs although no effect of the α5 polymorphism was observed. Finally, inclusion of the α5 variant caused a small shift to the left in IC 50 for some of the antagonists tested, depending upon α5 variant but did not affect sensitivity of α3β4* receptors to desensitization in response to incubation with nicotine. In conclusion, addition of either variant of α5 into an α3β4α5 receptor similarly effects receptor pharmacology and function. However, the N398 variant exhibits a reduced response to agonists when extracellular calcium is high and it may lead to distinct downstream cellular signaling.
Henry's constants of gases and volatile organic compounds in aqueous solutions

Abstract A model based on dilute solution theory is extended to Henry's constants of gases and volatile organic compounds in aqueous solutions, with and without added salts. The model is applicable to salt solutions over significant ranges of temperature, pressure, and salt concentration, up to the solubility limit of the salts considered in this work. Extrapolation over a range of salt concentrations requires one salt-dependent parameter, which can be approximated by the Setchenov constant at 298 K. As a result, literature or predicted values of Setchenov constants at a single temperature can be used to obtain Henry's constants over a range of temperatures and salt concentrations. Extrapolation in pressure was achieved using an expression that is similar to the Krichevsky–Kasarnovsky equation, with the partial molar volume of the gas or VOC at infinite dilution in water treated as an adjustable parameter. Regressed values of this parameter were found to be in good agreement with experimental partial molar volumes for methane + water and methane + water + salt systems at pressures up to 1000 bar. Therefore, it appears feasible to extrapolate Henry's constant data for gases or VOCs in water to aqueous salt solutions over significant ranges of pressures, temperatures, and salt concentrations, provided data on the Setchenov constant at 298 K and the partial molar volume of the VOC at infinite dilution in water are available.
Controlling Disulfide Bond Formation and Crystal Growth from 2-Mercaptobenzoic Acid

We report disulfide bond formation from 2-mercaptobenzoic acid (2-MBA) under hydrothermal conditions as a function of pH. Under acidic conditions, 2-MBA remains unchanged. Upon increasing pH, however, we observe 50% oxidation to 2,2′-disulfanediyldibenzoic acid (2,2′-DSBA), which is isolated as a cocrystal of both the thiol and disulfide molecules. At neutral pH, we observe complete oxidation and concurrent crystal growth. The pH sensitivity of this system allows targeting crystals of specific composition from simple building units through a straightforward pH manipulation.
Structure and Sedimentary Development of the Outer Channel of the Great Bahama Canyon

The outer channel of the Great Bahama Canyon, together with the Eleuthcra Ridge that forms its eastern boundary, has been formed by the flow of large-scale turbidity currents from the Great Bahama Canyon. The ridge consists of a series of levees that have migrated to the north and west to confine the channel against the base of the bank slope off Great Abaco Island. Deformation of the channel appears to have influenced the flow regime to the extent of creating a series of basin depressions and a major channel sill. The two large basins in the channel proper have developed in accordance with recognized principles of hydraulic behavior for flows in channels in two-layered systems. A third basin on the face of the sill is the result of the displacement of a section of the sea floor. The outer channel of the Great Bahama Canyon demonstrates features of flow behavior that have not been observed in other Ian valleys because of their setting, the sediment supplies available, or the detail of the surveys available for study.
Gene Expression Patterns in the Lungs of Patients With Primary Pulmonary Hypertension A Gene Microarray Analysis

Primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) is a disease of unknown etiology characterized by lumen-obliterating endothelial cell proliferation and vascular smooth muscle hypertrophy of the small precapillary pulmonary arteries. Because the vascular lesions are homogeneously distributed throughout the entire lung, we propose that a tissue fragment of the lung is representative of the whole lung. RNA extracted from the fragments is likely to provide meaningful information regarding the changes in gene expression pattern in PPH when compared with structurally normal lung tissue. We hypothesize that the lung tissue gene expression pattern of patients with PPH has a characteristic profile when compared with the gene expression pattern of structurally normal lungs and that this characteristic gene expression profile provides new insights into the pathobiology of PPH. Using oligonucleotide microarray technology, we characterized the expression pattern in the lung tissue obtained from 6 patients with primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH)-including 2 patients with the familial form of PPH (FPPH)-and from 6 patients with histologically normal lungs. For the data analysis, gene clusters were generated and the gene expression pattern differences between PPH and normal lung tissue and between PPH and FPPH lung tissue were compared. All PPH lung tissue samples showed a decreased expression of genes encoding several kinases and phosphatases, whereas several oncogenes and genes coding for ion channel proteins were upregulated in their expression. Importantly, we could distinguish by pattern comparison between sporadic PPH and FPPH, because alterations in the expression of transforming growth factor-beta receptor III, bone morphogenic protein 2, mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 5, RACK 1, apolipoprotein C-III, and the gene encoding the laminin receptor 1 were only found in the samples from patients with sporadic PPH, but not in FPPH samples. We conclude that the microarray gene expression technique is a new and useful molecular tool that provides novel information pertinent to a better characterization and understanding of the pathobiology of the distinct clinical phenotypes of pulmonary hypertension.
Performing environmental governance

Abstract This essay reflects on issues of researcher positionality within participant observation and action research, and the specific methodological issues surrounding research on neoliberal governance strategies, using my experience at the US Environmental Protection Agency as case material. Although I was initially concerned about participating with the anti-progressive Bush Administration, I attempted to adopt the interests and subjectivity of an environmental bureaucrat. Doing so proved to be an extremely effective way of exploring the multi-vocality and cross-cutting interests constituting the state, which often appears from the outside to be a policy monolith. Participant research among elites in the neoliberal state is an effective way to observe such complexity. It became apparent that, because mainstream economics tends to adopt a totalizing epistemology, both its casual and dogmatic adherents usually do not conceive of a coherent external critique. This often means that researchers of any theoretical background can be quite frank concerning their purposes, background, and interests, even as participants.
A large-scale, multihabitat inventory of the Phylum Tardigrada in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, USA: a preliminary report

An All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory (ATBI) is underway in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP), with the goal of attempting to identify all species of life in the 2000 km2 park. The GSMNP is a hotbed of biodiversity, a U.N. Biosphere Reserve, and one of the largest protected, deciduous forests in the temperate world. We have completed two field seasons of work on the tardigrades in the park (2001–2002). As of July 2003, we have collected 420 samples from soil/decomposed leaf litter, lichens and mosses on trees, and stream sediment and periphyton. A few samples from caves, bird nests, and lichens/mosses on rocks were also collected. Samples were taken from within permanent plots established for the ATBI, representing the major biological communities of the GSMNP. Tardigrades were extracted from samples using centrifugation with Ludox AM™, individually mounted on microscope slides in Hoyer’s medium, and studied with phase contrast and DIC microscopy. We have examined 1524 slides from 60 samples as of July 2003. Prior to our work, only three species of tardigrades had been previously reported from a few samples in the park. We have now recorded 42 species, 8 of which we believe may be new to science. Species richness estimates were calculated using EstimateS 6 software for each of the major tardigrade habitats. Overall, we predict that there are 47 to 76 species in the GSMNP, with generally similar species richness in soil, lichen, moss, and stream habitats. Species richness estimates were also used to determine that the number of tardigrade species was greater in mosses at breast height on trees than in mosses at the base of trees.
Investigating Whether and When English Learners Are Reclassified Into Mainstream Classrooms in the United States A Discrete-Time Survival Analysis

Using eight waves of longitudinal data on a statewide kindergarten cohort of English learners (ELs), I examined ELs’ tenure in language-learning programs and their academic performance following reclassification as fluent English proficient. I employed discrete-time survival analysis to estimate the average time to and grade of reclassification with and without controlling for socioeconomic status and home language. The average EL exited 3 years after school entry or in second grade; however, the odds that a non-Spanish-speaking EL was reclassified were nearly twice that of their Spanish-speaking EL classmates after controlling for income. Despite reclassification in the early elementary grades, large percentages of the kindergarten cohort experienced later academic difficulties and 22% of the sample was retained in grade.
Practical propensity score matching: a reply to Smith and Todd

Abstract This paper discusses propensity score matching in the context of Smith and Todd's (Does matching overcome Lalonde's critique of nonexperimental estimators, J. Econom., in press) reanalysis of Dehejia and Wahba (J. Am. Statist. Assoc. 97 (1999) 1053; National Bereau of Economics Research working Paper No. 6829, Rev. Econom. Statist., 2002, forthcoming). Propensity score methods require that a separate propensity score specification be estimated for each treatment group-comparison group combination. Furthermore, a researcher should always examine the sensitivity of the estimated treatment effect to small changes in the propensity score specification; this is a useful diagnostic on the quality of the comparison group. When these are borne in mind, propensity score methods are useful in analyzing all of the subsamples of the NSW data considered in Smith and Todd (Does matching overcome Lalonde's critique of nonexperimental estimators, J. Econom., in press).
Thyroid disorders: automatic diagnosis in CONSULT I.

Abstract Automatic diagnosis of thyroid diseases is implemented on CONSULT I ™ , a microcomputer system based on the Patrick model for computer-assisted diagnosis in medicine. The thyroid ‘subsystem’ consists of 19 classes (diseases) and 16 features (signs, symptoms, laboratory tests). For 76 test cases obtained from patient records (recognition samples), the ‘true’ class (disease) is decided in the highest ‘probability’ number in 89% of cases and in the differential diagnosis in 100% of cases. Performance is compared to physicians. Estimation of class-conditional probability densities utilizing equivalence regions in the feauture space is discussed.
El efecto de la desigualdad y el acceso al crédito sobre la acumulación de capital humano

The accumulation of human capital has been recognized as one of the keyfactors that lead to long-run macroeconomic growth. A segment of this literature has focused its efforts in demonstrating the link between financial markets, inequality and the accumulation of human capital. According to Galor & Zeira (1993), due to the imperfections in the credit markets, the income distribution has long-run negative effects on the investment on human capital and therefore in economic development. This paper verifies empirically the joint effect of income inequality and access to credit on the accumulation of human capital in Colombia. The evidence indicates that income inequality has negative effects on schooling assistance, while a higher presence of the financial markets has positive effects on this variable. With regards to the joint effect, the data suggests that a higher access to the financial markets partially counteracts the negative effects of inequality. These results are more marked in those municipalities which present higher levels of income inequality.
Watching fights does not alter a bystander's response towards naïve conspecifics in male green swordtail fish, Xiphophorus helleri

Bystanders are capable of extracting cues from signalling interactions between others and appear to use information gained via eavesdropping when confronted with the watched individuals. A question that has gained little attention is whether observing fights affects bystander behaviour outside the context of interacting with the watched individuals. Our aim was to determine whether watching fights elicits general changes in bystander aggression levels in Xiphophorus helleri. We manipulated the bystanders' ability to witness encounters using clear, one-way-mirror and opaque partitions. After watching (or not watching) an initial contest, the bystanders were pitted against naive conspecifics instead of the animals they had seen fight. Observing fights did not alter the bystanders' propensity to initiate aggression, escalate, or win against naive individuals, indicating that bystanders do not experience general changes in aggressive behaviour after watching a fight. Earlier work in this species, however, has shown that bystanders respond in predictable ways to individuals they have witnessed winning or losing a fight. Taken together, these data support the notion that bystanders consistently modify their behaviour towards previously watched winners or losers in response to information gained via eavesdropping. We discuss our results in light of some recent work on the behavioural and endocrinological responses triggered by watching fights and suggest that comparative approaches to understanding networking phenomena may be productive.
Rules-based detection of discrepancies between TSH and free T4 results

Abstract Background : Analytical errors in clinical laboratory testing are unavoidable. Recent reports have suggested the idea of “physiological profiling” which uses several results from a given patient to identify clinically unlikely results. The objective of this study was to establish rules-based criteria for identifying physiologically unlikely TSH and free T 4 (fT 4 ) results. Methods : For a 30-month period, all samples with fT 4 concentrations >2 ng/dl and TSH concentrations >0.1 μIU/ml were investigated. Results : Among 7918 plasma samples for which both TSH and fT 4 concentrations were measured, 18 (0.23%) had fT 4 and TSH exceeding the investigated limits. Of these, two were due to heterophile antibody interference (with the TSH assay), one was proven to be due to random error, four could be explained by the patients' conditions, three were from infants Conclusions : This study defined a rules-based alert system for clinically unlikely combinations of TSH and fT 4 results. This pilot study demonstrates that this system is capable of detecting at least two different types of laboratory errors that would have otherwise gone undetected.
The U. S. PV program: Now and the year 2000

Abstract There will be a vigorous U.S. Photovoltaic (PV) program in 2000, despite the current turmoil and debate over the size and legitimate role of nearly every aspect of the Federal government. There are two fundamental reasons why there will still be an active Federal role in PV development in the 21st century. First, as the program and technology have progressed, the environmental and job creation potential of the PV industry are increasingly recognized as important to the nation's future. Second, Federal investment in research and development is necessary to counteract the private sector's tendency to under-invest in research and development. What will change is the emphasis and role of the Federal PV program, because the PV industry is changing. The U.S. government is no longer the principal customer of the PV industry, and research and development is more of an equal partnership between government and industry compared to 1974, when the terrestrial PV research program began. Today, industry revenues and markets are continuing to grow, while Federal R&D investments will remain relatively stable or contract between then and now. From 1994 to 1995 PV sales increased over 21 percent, from 70 MW to 84 MW, and are expected to continue along this trend. In contrast, from FY95 to FY96, the U.S. PV research budget dropped by roughly 31%. In spite of changes in the relative size of government and industry resources, the PV Program's strategic focus on technology validation, market conditioning, and joint ventures will continue into the year 2000 and beyond, but the relative share of resources and leadership in key areas will continue to shift toward industry.