cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Glueballs of QCD and Beyond

It has been generally believed that the characteristics of hadronic interactions obey local gauge invariance of the nonabelian group SU(3)color and are subject to color confinement. This leads to QCD1 without quarks, in which the gluons — the eight gauge bosons of SU(3)C are massless, carry color charge and have spin = 1.
Preconditioning and Hypothermic Cardioplegia Protect Human Heart Equally Against Ischemia

Abstract Background . The purpose of this study was to determine whether transient ischemic preconditioning protects human myocardium against normothermic ischemic injury. Methods . Isolated human right atrial trabeculae were suspended in an organ bath with oxygenated Tyrode's solution at 37°C and field stimulated at 1 Hz. Developed force was recorded. Trabeculae (Warm I/R) received normoxic perfusion before 45 minutes of normothermic simulated ischemia (hypoxic, substrate-free buffer with pacing at 3 Hz) and 120 minutes of reperfusion. Preconditioned trabeculae (Warm IPC) were subjected to 5 minutes of normothermic simulated ischemia and 10 minutes of perfusion before normothermic simulated ischemia-reperfusion injury. Trabeculae (Cold I/R) were subjected to hypothermic (4°C) ischemia (hypoxic buffer) for 4 hours and 60 minutes of reperfusion (37°C). Preconditioned trabeculae (Cold IPC) were pretreated with 5 minutes of normothermic simulated ischemia before hypothermic ischemia and 60 minutes of reperfusion. At the end of reperfusion, trabeculae were frozen at −70°C and assayed for tissue creatine kinase activity. Results . At the end of reperfusion, warm preconditioned trabeculae (Warm IPC) recovered 51% ± 5% of baseline developed force, whereas warm I/R trabeculae recovered 24% ± 3% ( p p p > 0.05). Conclusions . We conclude that transient ischemic preconditioning protects human myocardium against normothermic ischemic injury. (Ann Thorac Surg 1997;63:147–52)
Pioneer Solar Plasma and Magnetic Field Measurements in Interplanetary Space during August 2–17, 1972

Solar wind plasma and magnetic field measurements from Pioneers 9 and 10 during August 2–17, 1972, reveal complex and large-amplitude variations on a one-hour time scale and numerous discontinuities. During this time period an approximate radial alignment of the two spacecraft as seen from the Sun occurred with heliocentric distances of 0.8 AU for Pioneer 9 and 2.2 AU for Pioneer 10, both at 45° east of the Earth’s solar longitude. The peak hourly average solar wind proton bulk velocity measured at Pioneer 9 was 990 km s−1 during hour 0 UT of August 5. The peak hourly average proton number density was 62 cm−3 during hour 11 UT of August 3. The peak solar wind speeds are generally much reduced at Pioneer 10 compared with those observed at Pioneer 9. The peak 30-min average magnetic field magnitude was 85 γ during 1245–1315 UT of August 3. The Pioneer 9 data indicate passage of four fast forward interplanetary shocks, and one slow forward interplanetary shock.
Educational technology and human values

THE FUSING AMERICAN VALUE SYSTEM Potentials have strong credibility. This tends to make potentials of educational technology interchangeable with actual results, effects, or outcomes. When this happens, what could-be is mischievously transformed into what-is. Instructional technology's boundaries are not clear. The hands of sovereignty over it are not visible; it belongs to all who teach, whether in schools, colleges and universities, government, industry, religion, or any institution of education or training. Reassessment is in progress-reassessment of the systems changes educational technology brings about and of the human values to be imposed on its use to preserve our dominion over it.
Initial Step in Catabolism of Glucose by the Meningopneumonitis Agent

The relative rates of catabolism of glucose and glucose-6-phosphate by intact-cell suspensions of the meningopneumonitis agent, a member of the psittacosis group (Chlamydia), and the properties of the hexokinase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase of these suspensions were investigated. It is proposed that the hexokinase is a host enzyme bound to the surface of the meningopneumonitis cell and that glucose-6-phosphate is the first substrate in the conversion of hexose to pentose to be attacked by enzymes synthesized by the meningopneumonitis agent.
Microsurgical denervation of rat spermatic cord: safety and efficacy data.

Objective To describe a microsurgical technique for denervation of the spermatic cord and use of multiphoton microscopy (MPM) laser to identify and ablate residual nerves after microsurgical denervation. To evaluate structural and functional changes in the rat testis and vas deferens after denervation. Materials and Methods Nine Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three experimental groups: sham, microsurgical denervation of the spermatic cord (MDSC), and MDSC immediately followed by laser ablation with MPM. At 2 months after surgery, we assessed testicular volume, functional circulation of the testicular artery with Doppler, patency of the vas deferens, and histology of the testis and vas deferens. Results There was a significant decrease in the median number of nerves remaining around the vas deferens with MDSC alone (3.5 nerves) or MDSC with MPM (1.5 nerves) compared with sham rats (15.5 nerves) (P = 0.003). Although, MDSC with MPM resulted in the fewest remaining nerves, this result was similar to MDSC alone (P = 0.29). No deleterious effects on spermatogenesis or vas patency were seen in the experimental groups when compared with the sham rats. Conclusion A microsurgical approach can be used to effectively and safely denervate the rat spermatic cord with minimal changes to structure and function of the testis and vas deferens. MPM can be used as an adjunct to identify and ablate residual nerves after MDSC.
Immunological Danger Signals

The conventional understanding of the immune system is that it can differentiate self from nonself. In contrast, the danger theory proposes that the immune system does not react to foreign substances but instead responds to situations that are potentially harmful. Keywords: danger; autoimmunity; tolerance; tumour; transplantation
A strength training program for postmenopausal women: a pilot study.

Abstract This pilot study examined a specific exercise program designed for skeletal muscle strengthening in postmenopausal women. The program consisted of patterns of movement using diagonal and spiral patterns, superimposed on a progressive weight-bearing sequence from prone lying to standing. Progressive resistance was provided with the use of progressively thicker elastic straps. Eighteen of an initial 22 healthy volunteer women aged 50 to 64 years completed 8 weekly hour-long group exercise sessions supplemented with twice weekly sessions at home to pilot test the program's safety, acceptability, and effectiveness in changing muscle strength. A physical therapist conducted baseline and final quadriceps, hamstrings, and grip strength assessments using a portable isokinetic dynamometer. Participants achieved a 21% increase in quadriceps ( p ≤ .001), 9% increase in hamstrings ( p ≤ .07), and a 14% increase in grip strength ( p ≤ .002). A positive dose-response relationship was observed between strength gains and compliance with the program. This approach to strength training in postmenopausal women is feasible and effective in increasing muscle strength. It has considerable promise and deserves further testing and evaluation.
Somatic Cell Encystment Promotes Abscission in Germline Stem Cells following a Regulated Block in Cytokinesis

Summary In many tissues, the stem cell niche must coordinate behavior across multiple stem cell lineages. How this is achieved is largely unknown. We have identified delayed completion of cytokinesis in germline stem cells (GSCs) as a mechanism that regulates the production of stem cell daughters in the Drosophila testis. Through live imaging, we show that a secondary F-actin ring is formed through regulation of Cofilin activity to block cytokinesis progress after contractile ring disassembly. The duration of this block is controlled by Aurora B kinase. Additionally, we have identified a requirement for somatic cell encystment of the germline in promoting GSC abscission. We suggest that this non-autonomous role promotes coordination between stem cell lineages. These findings reveal the mechanisms by which cytokinesis is inhibited and reinitiated in GSCs and why such complex regulation exists within the stem cell niche.
Allopregnanolone infusion induced neurobehavioural alterations in a neonatal foal: Is this a clue to the pathogenesis of neonatal maladjustment syndrome?

Summary Reasons for performing the study: Increased plasma progestagen concentrations have been reported in foals with neonatal maladjustment syndrome (NMS). These steroids may cross the blood–brain barrier and have dampening effects in the central nervous system. Objectives: To evaluate if the infusion of a progesterone derivative (allopregnanolone) in a healthy neonatal foal would induce clinical signs compatible with NMS. Methods: A healthy neonatal foal from a healthy mare with a normal gestation (length, no complications), birth and placenta was infused with allopregnanolone to observe its neurobehavioural effects. Heparinised blood samples were collected pre- and post infusion to determine various progestagen concentrations using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. A second healthy neonatal foal was infused with ethanol and saline for comparison of clinical observations. Results: Infusion of allopregnanolone resulted in obtundation, lack of affinity for the mare and decreased response to external stimuli. These effects were short-lasting and associated with measurable concentrations of progestagens. Conclusions and potential relevance: Infusion of a steroid metabolite to a healthy neonatal foal resulted in neurobehavioural alterations compatible with those observed in foals with NMS. These findings suggest that increased progestagen concentrations may be responsible for some of the behavioural changes observed in foals with NMS.
Age Effects on Arterial Axial Stiffness in Wild Type and Diabetic Mice

The risk of cardiovascular disease is high in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus, making it the main cause of death due to these diseases.[1] A significant part of this increased risk is thought to be directly linked to pathological changes in mechanical response resulting in vascular dysfunction. Mechanical response can be altered by changes in the geometry of the vessel, such as fibrotic thickening of the vascular wall, as well as by disease linked mechanisms affecting the material microstructure, such as non-specific cross-linking of collagen, which is most often evidenced by an increase in the stiffness of the tissue.[2]Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Natural Killer Activity: Early Days, Advances, and Seminal Observations

This manuscript describes the early history of NK cell discovery, with emphasis on the events in the first decade of NK cell studies, 1972-1982. The authors highlight some of the earliest and most important observations that would later prove to be milestones in the study of NK cells and their activity.
Dipole moments and electric field gradients for correlated wavefunctions of NO: The X 2Π, A 2Σ+, and D 2Σ+ states

Abstract Recent experiments by Bergeman and Zare led to a dipole moment of |μ| = 1.10 ± 0.03 D for the υ = 3 vibrational level of the A2Σ+ state of NO, whereas configuration interaction (CI) studies by Green led to μ = 0.39 D (N+O−), a serious discrepancy. We report herein ab initio generalized valence bond (GVB) and GVB CI calculations resulting in a dipole moment of +1.36 at Re for the A2Σ+ state; considering the expected decrease of μ for increasing υ, this is in reasonable agreement with experiment. Theoretical values of the dipole moment, electric field gradient, and excitation energies are reported for the X2Π, A2Σ+, and D2Σ+ states of NO.
Design and Development of Brushless Variable Speed Motor Drive for Low Cost and High Efficiency

Low cost brushless motor drive systems are actively sought for high efficiency home appliances and power tools. Minimizing the number of switching devices has been in power converters is the main method to reduce drive costs. Single-switch-per-phase converters have been cost-effective due to compactness of the converter package resulting in a possible reduction in their cost. However, some of single-switch-per-phase converters have the drawbacks that include higher losses and low system efficiency. In order to overcome these shortcomings, the choice narrows down to the split AC converter through the quantitative analysis in terms of device ratings, cost, switching losses, conduction losses, and converter efficiency. Simulations to verify the characteristics of the converter circuit and control feasibility are presented. The motor drive is realized with a novel two-phase flux-reversal-free-stator switched reluctance motor and a split AC converter. The efficiency with various loads is numerically estimated and experimentally compared in this paper. The acoustic noise with no load and full load is also compared. The focus of this paper is to compare the considered split AC converter to the asymmetric converter through experiments and demonstrate that the split AC converter is the most advantageous with respect to cost, efficiency, and acoustic noise.
Convergence analysis of ladder algorithms for AR and ARMA models

A class of exact fast algorithms originally introduced in the signal processing area is provided by the so-called recursive least squares ladder forms. The many nice numerical and structural properties of these algorithms have made them a very powerful alternative in a very large variety of applications. Yet the convergence properties of the algorithms have not received the necessary attention. This paper gives an asymptotic analysis of two particular ladder algorithms, designed for auto-regressive (AR) and auto-regressive-moving-average (ARMA) models. Convergence is studied based on the stability properties of an associated differential equation. The conditions obtained for the convergence of the algorithms parallel those known for prediction error methods and for a particular type of pseudo-linear regression.
Interfacet mass transport and facet evolution in selective epitaxial growth of Si by gas source molecular beam epitaxy

Facet formation and competition in selective epitaxial growth (SEG) of Si on SiO2− masked nanometer growth windows were studied experimentally and theoretically in gas source molecular beam epitaxy. The windows were patterned along [110] on Si(100) substrates. Mass accumulation around the edge of the SEG mesa top surface was observed and believed to be due to the interfacet mass transport from sidewalls to the top surface. Sidewall facet evolution from the initial (311) to (111) was observed. The facet evolution is due to the growth rate anisotropy among (100), (311), and (111). The interfacet mass transport is believed to affect growth rate of each facet and increase the growth rate anisotropy. As a result, it controls the size dependence of SEG growth rate and promotes the facet evolution. A theoretical model has also been developed for modeling the facet competition and evolution. Both the interfacet and intrafacet surface migration processes were taken into account in the model. The simulation results...
Watching Macromolecules Diffuse at Surfaces and Under Confinement

At the single-molecule level, this laboratory has been making direct measurements of polymer diffusion at and near surfaces. Parameters of special interest have been to understand (a) the role of molecular weight, N; (b) the role of surface coverage, which may range from dilute to saturated, and (c) the role of the surface, which may range from hard (a silicon wafer) to soft (a supported lipid bilayer), and (d) the use of external fields to direct the transport of small molecules through narrow surface channels that are one macromolecule thick.
Physical environmental correlates of childhood obesity: a systematic review

Increasing rates of childhood obesity in the USA and other Western countries are a cause for serious public health concern. Neighborhood and community environments are thought to play a contributing role in the development of obesity among youth, but it is not well understood which types of physical environmental characteristics have the most potential to influence obesity outcomes. This paper reports the results of a systematic review of quantitative research examining built and biophysical environmental variables associated with obesity in children and adolescents through physical activity. Literature searches in PubMed, PsychInfo and Geobase were conducted. Fifteen quantitative studies met the inclusion criteria for this systematic review. The majority of studies were cross-sectional and published after 2005. Overall, few consistent findings emerged. For children, associations between physical environmental variables and obesity differed by gender, age, socioeconomic status, population density and whether reports were made by the parent or child. Access to equipment and facilities, neighborhood pattern (e.g. rural, exurban, suburban) and urban sprawl were associated with obesity outcomes in adolescents. For most environmental variables considered, strong empirical evidence is not yet available. Conceptual gaps, methodological limitations and future research directions are discussed.
Perspectives on a Time-dependent Model of Neuroleptic Action

The best support for the hypothesized involvement of central nervous system dopamine systems in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia is the association between the affinity of neuroleptic drugs for the D2 dopamine receptor and their potency as antipsychotics. Discrepancy between the time course of receptor binding and the development of antipsychotic effects, however, limits this model. Preclinical studies have now shown that activation of presynaptic nigrostriatal and mesolimbic dopamine neurons by acute neuroleptic administration is reversed during chronic administration. Clinically, neuroleptic-induced time-dependent reductions in plasma levels of the dopamine metabolite, homovanillic acid (HVA), have been linked to the antipsychotic response in schizophrenic patients. These data support the notion that slowly developing alterations in presynaptic dopamine activity play a role in the mechanism of action of neuroleptic drugs. Differences between plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) HVA responses to neuroleptic treatment, although not fully explained, may be related to prominent contributions of mesocortical metabolism to CSF levels of HVA. A time-dependent dopaminergic model of neuroleptic action with implications for the pharmacotherapy of schizophrenia is presented.
A carrier collaboration problem for less-than-truckload carriers: characteristics and carrier collaboration model

This paper addresses a single-carrier collaboration problem (SCCP) in which a less-than-truckload (LTL) carrier of interest seeks to collaborate with other carriers by acquiring capacity to service excess demand. The SCCP is addressed from a static (planning) perspective to gain insights into the potential of the collaboration concept for carriers, and its ability to alleviate the effects of increased fuel prices. The study also explores the impact of the degree of collaboration represented by the collaborative discount rate on the carrier of interest. The collaborative strategies are compared to the non-collaboration option represented by a short-term leasing strategy, and the relative benefits of collaboration are computed. Single- and multiple-product SCCPs are formulated as binary (0–1) multi-commodity minimum cost flow problems and are solved using the branch-and-cut algorithm. Experiments are conducted for two transfer cost policies to illustrate insights into the computational performance under var...
Of thorns and roses: The use of the “brier rose” fairy tale in therapy with families of gifted children

Fairy tales have been used successfully in addressing difficult therapeutic issues in indirect ways. This paper describes how the Grimm's tale “Brier Rose” can help engage families with an academically gifted child in family therapy. The metaphor concepts of derivational search, indirection, and embedded commands are briefly discussed, the fairy tale is summarized, and the story is applied to the three metaphor concepts.
Obesity, But Not High-Fat Diet, Promotes Murine Pancreatic Cancer Growth

Background Obesity accelerates pancreatic cancer growth; the mechanisms underlying this association are poorly understood. This study evaluated the hypothesis that obesity, rather than high-fat diet, is responsible for accelerated pancreatic cancer growth.
Using Ion-Imaging to Study the Effect of Gouy Phase Shift and Wave-Front Distortions on Attosecond Pump-Probe Measurements

We utilize ion-imaging to perform a detailed characterization of the effects of Gouy phase mismatch and wave-front distortions on attosecond resolved, pump-probe measurements of XUV/IR and IR/IR ionization of He and Xe atoms.
A phasor method of nonlinear network analysis

NONLINEAR problems present a real challenge to any engineer because no completely satisfactory general method of solution has been developed. However, the phasor method outlined herein can be used in the analysis of the steady state of any nonlinear network whose variables can be adequately represented by the sum of a limited number of simple sinusoidal functions of time. The method is the result of an effort to digest some of the classical approaches to the solution of nonlinear problems so they can be applied by means of elementary mathematics and at the same time provide a grasp of the influence of the individual nonlinear elements on the steady state of the nonlinear networks. It has the object of providing a tool for nonlinear analysis and synthesis to engineers who have not had extensive training in that area.
Molecular cloning and the complete nucleotide sequence of the creatine kinase-M cDNA from chicken

Abstract The nucleotide sequence of creatine kinase-M (CK-M) cDNA clones has been determined. It includes the entire coding region of 381 amino acids in addition to 5' and 3' untranslated regions. A comparison with a partial sequence from rat CK-M reveals 84% nucleotide sequence homology in the coding region but divergence in the 3' untranslated region. The amino acid sequence is 94% conserved between chicken and rat. Hybridization to RNA immobilized on filters indicates homology between the CK-M 3' untranslated region and additional muscle specific RNA species. The coding region hybridizes only to CK-M RNA.
Definition of Group Effects in Sire Evaluation Models

Abstract Group effects are used in sire evaluation models to account for genetic trend. The objective of this paper was to develop definitions of these group effects where sires are related. Definitions were obtained for sire groups from results of a set of modified mixed model equations. Definitions were functions of genetic selection differentials. Definitions were dependent on the matrix of numerator relationships. Simulation of 10,000 replicates of a particular population structure was used to evaluate definitions. Three models with different relationship matrices were fit to the data for each replicate. Group solutions were compared to hypothesized group effects computed from realized genetic selection differentials in each replicate. There was close agreement between group solutions and corresponding hypothesized effects.
Antiparkinsonian and behavioral effects of inactivation of the substantia nigra pars reticulata in hemiparkinsonian primates.

Altered activity in one of the output nuclei of the basal ganglia, the internal segment of the globus pallidus, is known to play an important role in the generation of parkinsonism. These inactivation studies tested the hypothesis that altered activity in the second major output nucleus of the basal ganglia, the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr), also contributes to parkinsonian motor signs. To this end, three rhesus monkeys were rendered hemiparkinsonian by intracarotid injections of MPTP. The animals then received intra-SNr injections of the GABA(A) receptor agonist muscimol to inactivate small portions of the SNr. Before and after these injections, parkinsonian motor signs were evaluated with a battery of behavioral observation methods. Injections into the centrolateral SNr reduced contralateral limb akinesia and bradykinesia in two animals. By contrast, medial injections induced generalized activation, contralateral turning, and saccadic eye movements in all animals. Injections in the most lateral and posterior portions of the nucleus had no effects. Two of the animals also received ibotenic acid lesions of the SNr, followed by a series of similar observations. These injections induced improvements in limb akinesia, postural improvements, and turning. The experiments suggest that the anterolateral "motor" territory of the SNr is involved in the development of appendicular parkinsonian motor signs.
Partitioned Analysis of Coupled Numerical Models Considering Imprecise Parameters and Inexact Models

The present study develops an integrated coupling and uncertainty quantification framework for strongly coupled models that explicitly considers the propagation of uncertainty and bias inherent in model prediction between constituents during the iterative coupling process. Utilizing optimization techniques, three distinct configurations are formulated that differ in sequence of coupling and uncertainty quantification campaigns. Focusing on a controlled structural dynamics problem, the systematic biases from the constituents are quantified, from which the critical components of the model that require further improvement can be identified to aid in the prioritization of future code development efforts. DOI: 10.1061/(ASCE)CP.1943-5487.0000253. © 2014 American Society of Civil Engineers. Author keywords: Coupled simulations; Optimization; Uncertainty propagation; Discrepancy-Bias; Model calibration; Partitioned analysis.
Femtosecond optical nonlinearities in YBa2Cu3O7-x

We have performed a series of femtosecond reflectivity experiments on various YBa2Cu3O7-x (YBCO) thin films at temperatures ranging from 12 K to 300 K. In particular, we have measured the dependence of the transient reflectivity signal on probing laser frequency, oxygen content, sample's thickness, ambient temperature, and pumping laser intensity. Results obtained at room temperature provide quantitative information on the position of the Fermi level for films with different oxygen contents. Systematic analysis of the measurements performed in the superconducting state indicate that the optical response associated with nonequilibrium properties of YBCO depends strongly on excitation intensity and sample thickness. The observed ultrafast refractive nonlinearity under the low laser excitation cannot be comprehensively interpreted as the relaxation dynamics of quasi-particles, and is speculated to be correlated to the existence of the nonequilibrium intermediate state.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Picosecond Spectroscopy Of Excitonic Localization In Cd1-xMnxTe

Following recent developments in ultrashort pulse laser technology, there are now many examples of applications to transient spectroscopy of semiconductors where distinctly new physical information has been obtained at a fundamental microscopic level. Our work has focused on selected aspects of exciton kinetics in the so-called 'semimagnetic' semiconduc-tors, sepcifically Cdl_xMnxSe and Cdi_xMnxTe 1. These II-VI materials, while possessing many of the conventional features of their parent compound semiconductors, have additional spin-spin interactions which lead to a number of interesting and useful properties2. Excitons, in turn, control many of the light emitting properties, especially at low temperatures. The emphasis below, however, is to show through a specific example that the experimental techniques in question can yield real time kinetic information of excitonic energy relaxation processes with considerable detail. In the next section we review some of the technical aspects of a two-laser excite-probe approach, termed here as photomodulation spectroscopy. In Section III we show an example of exciton energy relaxation and subsequent trapping by alloy potential fluctuations in the mixed crystal Cd1-xMnxTe. Some concluding remarks follow in Section IV.
Investigation of decalibrated Nicrosil versus Nisil thermocouples: Quantitative sims analysis using indexed sensitivity factors and oxygen flooding

Abstract Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry was used to determine the failure mode of sheathed Nicrosil versus Nisil thermocouples exposed to temperatures above 1000°C. Four thermocouples, two sheathed in Inconel-600 and two sheathed in type 304 stainless steel, were studied. Relative sensitivity factors, indexed by a matrix ion species ratio, were used to quantify SIMS data for the alloys studied. Oxygen pressure ⩾ 2.7 × 10-4 Pa in the sputtering region gave enhanced sensitivity and superior quantitative results compared to data obtained at instrument residual pressure. At sufficiently high oxygen surface coverage, the slope of the nonlinear sensitivity factor curves for the Nicrosil and Nisil alloys approached zero. Quantified SIMS data showed that these thermocouples decalibrated because significant alterations in the elemental composition of the Nicrosil and Nisil thermoelements occurred. The extent of the observed alteration was different for each thermocouple, for a given time and temperature of exposures, and was influenced by the particular sheath material used in the thermocouple construction.
Ventricular pneumocephalus and septic meningoencephalitis secondary to dorsal rhinotomy and nasal polypectomy in a dog

Case Description—A 4-year-old sexually intact female French Bulldog was evaluated because of lethargy, anorexia, and chronic rhinitis-sinusitis. The dog had nasal discharge of 18 months' duration; dorsal rhinotomies were performed 3 months and 2 weeks prior to referral. Clinical Findings—On initial evaluation, intraventricular pneumocephalus and sinusitis were diagnosed; CSF analysis revealed high total protein concentration and mononuclear pleocytosis. The dog's condition improved with treatment. Two weeks after discharge, it was treated by a local veterinarian because of upper airway obstruction; 3 days later, the dog was referred because of seizures. Computed tomography revealed a large fluid-filled, left lateral ventricle and a soft tissue mass protruding through a cribriform plate defect. The mass was histologically consistent with brain tissue. Findings of clinicopathologic analyses were unremarkable. Results of cytologic examination of a CSF sample were indicative of septic, suppurative inflammatio...
O2 Activation by Bis(imino)pyridine Iron(II)−Thiolate Complexes

The new iron(II)−thiolate complexes [(iPrBIP)FeII(SPh)(Cl)] (1) and [(iPrBIP)FeII(SPh)(OTf)] (2) [BIP = bis(imino)pyridine] were prepared as models for cysteine dioxygenase (CDO), which converts Cy...
C. elegans CEP-1/p53 and BEC-1 Are Involved in DNA Repair

p53 is a transcription factor that regulates the response to cellular stress. Mammalian p53 functions as a tumor suppressor. The C. elegans p53, cep-1, regulates DNA-damage induced germline cell death by activating the transcription of egl-1 and ced-13. We used the C. elegans model to investigate how, in the whole animal, different forms of DNA damage can induce p53-dependent versus p53-independent cell death and DNA repair. DNA damage was induced by ultraviolet type C (UVC) radiation, or 10-decarbamoyl mitomycin C (DMC, an agent known to induce mammalian p53-independent cell death). Wild-type or cep-1 loss-of-function mutant animals were assayed for germline cell death and DNA lesions. Wild-type animals displayed greater removal of UVC-lesions over time, whereas cep-1 mutant animals displayed increased UVC-lesion retention. The cep-1 mutation increased UVC-lesion retention directly correlated with a reduction of progeny viability. Consistent with DMC inducing p53-independent cell death in mammalian cells DMC induced a C. elegans p53-independent germline cell death pathway. To examine the influence of wild-type CEP-1 and DNA damage on C. elegans tumors we used glp-1(ar202gf)/Notch germline tumor mutants. UVC treatment of glp-1 mutant animals activated the CEP-1 target gene egl-1 and reduced tumor size. In cep-1(gk138);glp-1(ar202gf) animals, UVC treatment resulted in increased susceptibility to lesions and larger tumorous germlines. Interestingly, the partial knockdown of bec-1 in adults resulted in a CEP-1-dependent increase in germline cell death and an increase in DNA damage. These results strongly support cross-talk between BEC-1 and CEP-1 to protect the C. elegans genome.
Systematic review of the birth prevalence of congenital cytomegalovirus infection in developing countries

Summary Background Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is the leading infectious cause of congenital hearing loss and neurodevelopmental disability in developed countries. Information on congenital CMV infection in developing countries appears to be lacking. Methods We conducted a systematic literature review to identify studies from developing countries with population-based samples of at least 300 infants that used laboratory methods established as reliable for the diagnosis of congenital CMV infection. Results Most studies were excluded due to biased samples or inadequate diagnostic methods; consequently the search identified just 11 studies that were from Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The number of newborns tested ranged from 317 to 12 195. Maternal CMV seroprevalence ranged from 84% to 100%. CMV birth prevalence varied from 0.6% to 6.1%. CMV-associated impairments were not documented in most studies. Conclusions Birth prevalence ranges were higher than for Europe and North America, as expected based on the higher maternal CMV seroprevalence. With very limited data available on sequelae, the disease burden of congenital CMV in developing countries remains largely unknown at this time.
Do the Components of Compound Colours in Nature follow a Law of Multiple Proportions

THIS question, put by Mr. F. Howard Collins in NATURE (p. 438), may be answered in the negative.
A randomized pilot test of "Moms on the Move": a physical activity intervention for WIC mothers.

Background: Sedentary mothers are important to reach with physical activity promotion.Purpose: This study pilot tested “Moms on the Move” a Transtheoretical Model (TTM)-derived physical activity (PA) intervention for low-income mothers enrolled in the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program. Method: Sedentary mothers (N = 44) were randomized to (a) Moms on the Move (PA intervention) or (b) counseling on self-breast examination (control). Pre- and posttest measurement (baseline and 2 weeks after the 8-weekinterventions) included (a) stage of PA behavior change, (b) PA behavior, (c) selected TTM constructs, and (d) social support. Pre- and posidifference scores, chi-square, and one-way analyses of variance (ANOVAs) were used.Results: The experimental group progressed in stage of change more than control, x2(1, N = 44)=20.50, p < .001. The experimental group had greater PA behavior: weekly minutes of PA, F(l, 42) = 46.85, p< .001; daily energy expenditure (EE), F(1, 42) = 23.01,p < .001; and weekly moderate PA EE, F(1, 42) = 32.63, p < .001. Experimental subgroup (n = 11) step counts increased pre-post, t(l 0)=6.16,p7lt;. 001. AnANOVA showed that the experimental group had greater improvements in all TTM constructs and social support, ps < .001.Conclusions: WIC mothers are at risk for sedentary living and have not been targeted for PA behavior change using a provider-counseled approach. Although further testing is needed, Moms on the Move appears to be efficacious.
Structure and anatomical relationships of the synganglion in the American dog tick, Dermacentor variabilis (Acari: Ixodiadae).

The synganglion of Dermacentor variabilis Say is a single nerve mass, condensed around the esophagus and within the periganglionic sinus of the ciculatory system. Protocerebral, cheliceral (including stomodeal bridge), and pedipalpal ganglia lie in the pre-esophageal portion of the nerve mass and bear optic, cheliceral, and pedipalpal nerves respectively. The unpaired stomodeal and the recurrent nerve which forms the hyper-esophageal ganglion arise from the stomodeal bridge. Paired primary and accessory nerves to the retrocerebral organ complex have mixed protocerebral-cheliceral origins. Pedal ganglia (including ventral olfactory lobes of pedal ganglia I) and composite opisthosomal ganglion lie in the post-esophageal nerve mass and bear pedal nerve trunks and two pairs of opisthosomal nerves respectively. Internally, the synganglion consists of cellular rind and fibrous core. A welldefined neurilemma with a laminar matrix covers nerve mass and peripheral nerves. The rind contains the somata of ganglionic neurons and ensheathing glial cells and is restricted to the synganglion mass. It is limited by two specialized glial layers, the external perineurium and internal subperineurium. Discrete glomerular formations are present within the protocerebrum and olfactory lobes. Olfactory glomeruli located in pedal ganglia I are associated with a pair of globuli cell groups. Possible physiological relationships between anatomical specializations of the synganglion, extraneural sinuses and circulating hemocytes are considered. The evolutionary significances of condensation in the stomatogastric neuropile regions and throughout the synganglion, together with the simplification and loss of glomerular formations, are discussed.
The effect of tunicamycin on development of the mammalian embryonic pancreas

Abstract The role of cell-surface glycoproteins in histogenesis of the embryonic rat pancreas was investigated by studying the effect of tunicamycin (TM) on in vitro development. TM has been shown to block glycosylation of asparagine residues in glycoproteins by inhibiting formation of dolichol oligosaccharide intermediates. Exposure of Day 15 pancreatic rudiments to 1.0 μg TM/ml for 15 or 24 hr inhibited [3H]mannose, [3H]glucosamine, and [3H]fucose incorporation by 95, 85, and 90%, respectively, while [3H]leucine incorporation was reduced by 35%. Similar results were obtained with Day 17 rudiments. These trends were confirmed using sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide slab gel electrophoresis and fluorography. Inhibition of [3H]monosaccharide incorporation correlated with reduced binding of RCA I-ferritin conjugates to the cell surface and both effects of TM were reversed by reculturing rudiments in medium lacking the antibiotic. Morphologically, TM treatment resulted in a delay in pancreatic histogenesis and this delay correlated with an inhibition of the normal increase in specific activity of amylase, an acinar cell secretory protein. These effects were not mimicked by treatment with cycloheximide at a concentration which inhibited [3H]leucine incorporation to the same degree observed with TM. The percentage of delayed rudiments decreased as reculturing in the absence of TM was extended.
A simple kinetic approach to fibre failure: 2. Lifetime distributions

Abstract A simple kinetic theory of fibre failure has been developed that predicts not only the median lifetimes of fibre samples under constant load but also the distribution in these lifetimes based upon the distribution in the static breaking load of the fibre samples. The theory is applied to Kevlar fibres where data for lifetime under various loads are known.
Hiding and revealing in online poker games

Poker is largely a game of social and psychological information. However, online card room interfaces do not support the subtle communication between players that is integral to the psychological aspect of the game, making the games less authentic and less enjoyable than they could be. We explore how card room interfaces can better support the psychological aspects of the game by critiquing the dominant methods of visualizing players: with generic avatars, and with text-only handles.
Localization of cholinergic muscarinic receptors in rat brain by light microscopic radioautography

Injection of a potent, cholinergic muscarinic antagonist, [3H]3-quinuclidinyl benzilate ([3H]QNB), results in a localization of the drug to muscarinic receptors in rat brain. The distribution of these drug receptors was examined in various brain regions previously thought to contain cholinergic neurons. They were localized to dendritic regions in the hippocampus, corpus striatum, nucleus accumbens and cerebral cortex. Particularly in the hippocampus, the receptor distribution may correspond to that for cholinergic nerve terminals.
The adsorption and absorption of water vapor by polyethylene terephthalate

An experimental technique for the simultaneous determination of the amount of gas or vapor absorbed and adsorbed by a film of material is given. For Mylar film at 40°C it was found that the amount of water at an activity of 0.9 that was adsorbed was about 1 × 10−7 g/cm2. Assuming that a water molecule is cubical in shape and 3.26 A on an edge and the surface is geometrically flat, this amounts to several layers of water molecules on the surface for any thickness.
Phase Equilibria in the System Nd2O3-P2O5

The phase diagram for the system NdI2O3-P2O5 was constructed. Six intermediate compounds, having molar Nd2O3: P2O5 ratios of 3:1, 7:3, 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, and 1:5, were identified. The 3:1, 7:3, and 1:1 compounds are stable to at least 1500°C. The 1:2 compound decomposes to 1:1 and 1:3 at 730 ± 5°C. The 1:3 and 1:5 compounds melt congruently at 1280 ± 5° and 1055 ± 5°C, respectively. None of the neodymium phosphates show lower temperature limits of stability.
Role of metalloproteinase‐dependent EGF receptor activation in α1‐adrenoceptor‐stimulated MAP kinase phosphorylation in GT1‐7 neurons

Adrenoceptors (ARs) are involved in the regulation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) release from native and immortalized hypothalamic (GT1-7) neurons. However, the AR-mediated signaling mechanisms and their functional significance in these cells are not known. Stimulation of GT1-7 cells with the α1-AR agonist, phenylephrine (Phe), causes phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases that is mediated by protein kinase C (PKC)-dependent transactivation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGF-R). Phe stimulation causes shedding of the soluble ligand, heparin-binding EGF (HB-EGF), as a consequence of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activation. Phe-induced phosphorylation of the EGF-R, and subsequently of Shc and ERK1/2, was attenuated by inhibition of MMP or HB-EGF with the selective inhibitor, CRM197, or by a neutralizing antibody. In contrast, phosphorylation of the EGF-R, Shc and ERK1/2 by EGF and HB-EGF was independent of PKC and MMP activity. Moreover, inhibition of Src attenuated ERK1/2 responses by Phe, but not by HB-EGF and EGF, indicating that Src acts upstream of the EGF-R. Consistent with a potential role of reactive oxygen species (ROS), Phe-induced phosphorylation of EGF-R was attenuated by the antioxidant, N-acetylcysteine. These data suggest that activation of the α1-AR causes phosphorylation of ERK1/2 through activation of PKC, ROS and Src, and shedding of HB-EGF, which binds to and activates the EGF-R.
Thymosin Beta 4 Prevents Oxidative Stress by Targeting Antioxidant and Anti-Apoptotic Genes in Cardiac Fibroblasts

Rationale: Thymosin beta-4 (Tb4) is a ubiquitous protein with diverse functions relating to cell proliferation and differentiation that promotes wound healing and modulates inflammatory responses. The effecter molecules targeted by Tb4 for cardiac protection remains unknown. The purpose of this study is to determine the molecules targeted by Tb4 that mediate cardio-protection under oxidative stress. Methods: Rat neonatal fibroblasts cells were exposed to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in presence and absence of Tb4 and expression of antioxidant, apoptotic and pro-fibrotic genes was evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR and western blotting. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were estimated by DCF-DA using fluorescent microscopy and fluorimetry. Selected antioxidant and antiapoptotic genes were silenced by siRNA transfections in cardiac fibroblasts and the effect of Tb 4o n H2O2-induced profibrotic events was evaluated. Results: Pre-treatment with Tb4 resulted in reduction of the intracellular ROS levels induced by H2O2 in the cardiac fibroblasts. This was associated with an increased expression of antioxidant enzymes Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase and reduction of Bax/Bcl2 ratio. Tb4 treatment reduced the expression of pro-fibrotic genes [connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), collagen type-1 (Col-I) and collagen type-3 (Col-III)] in the cardiac fibroblasts. Silencing of Cu/Zn-SOD and catalase gene triggered apoptotic cell death in the cardiac fibroblasts, which was prevented by treatment with Tb4. Conclusion: This is the first report that exhibits the targeted molecules modulated by Tb4 under oxidative stress utilizing the cardiac fibroblasts. Tb4 treatment prevented the profibrotic gene expression in the in vitro settings. Our findings indicate that Tb4 selectively targets and upregulates catalase, Cu/Zn-SOD and Bcl2 ,t hereby, preventing H2O2-induced profibrotic changes in the myocardium. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the signaling pathways involved in the cardio-protection afforded by Tb4.
Cells of origin of hypothalamo-spinal projections in the rat

The retrograde transport of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was used to determine the distribution of hypothalamic neurons which send axonal projections to the spinal cord. Labeled cells were observed in the paraventricular nucleus (PV) and in the lateral hypothalamic area following HRP injections into the lower thoracic and upper lumbar spinal cords of rats. In PV, the HRP-labeled cells were located in the parvocellular portion of the nucleus. Hypothalamo-spinal projections are predominantly uncrossed.
“The Thrill is Gone” Visualization and Treatment of an Arteriovenous Fistula

An 87-year-old woman underwent placement of a permanent pacemaker for recurrent near-syncope and sick sinus syndrome. Left subclavian vein access was difficult to obtain despite multiple attempts, and the pacemaker was ultimately placed on the right side. After surgery, the patient developed a mediastinal hematoma necessitating transfusion. No other acute interventions were required. Over the next 8 weeks, the patient developed progressive …
The Effect of Framing on Choice Interactions with Risk-Taking Propensity, Cognitive Style, and Sex

Tversky and Kahneman suggested that choice between a "sure thing" and a risky option of equal expected value is affected by option phrasing. When options for fighting an "Asian disease" were framed positively, 72% chose the sure thing; but when options were framed negatively, only 22% did. Decision problems like the Asian disease one, however, have produced varied results. Experiment I explored three reasons for the varied results: differences between the samples in risk-taking propensity, differences in gender composition, and use of different decision problems. A significant interaction of framing, sex, and problem was observed. Women were affected by framing, while men generally were not. Further, the size and direction of framing effects varied across the decision problems. Experiment 2 investigated risk-taking propensity and field independence as mediators of the sex by framing interaction. Only framing was significant. Neither field independence nor risk-taking propensity interacted with framing.