cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Autophagy after experimental intracerebral hemorrhage

Autophagy contributes to ischemic brain injury, but it is not clear if autophagy occurs after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). This study examined whether ICH-induced cell death is partly autophagic. It then examined the role of iron in inducing this form of cell death after ICH. Male, adult Sprague-Dawley rats received an infusion of autologous whole blood or ferrous iron into the right basal ganglia. Control rats (sham) had a needle insertion. The rats were killed at 1, 3, 7, or 28 days later. Some rats were treated with either deferoxamine or vehicle after ICH. Microtubule-associated protein light chain-3 (LC3), a biomarker of autophagosome, and cathepsin D, a lysosomal biomarker, were measured by Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry. Immunofluorescent double-labeling was used to identify the cell types expressing cathepsin D. Electron microscopy was performed to examine the cellular ultrastructure changes after ICH. We found that conversion of LC3-I to LC3-II, cathepsin D expression, and vacuole formation are increased in the ipsilateral basal ganglia after ICH. Intracerebral infusion of iron also resulted in enhanced conversion of LC3-I to LC3-II and increased cathepsin D levels. Deferoxamine (an iron chelator) treatment significantly reduced the conversion of LC3-I to LC3-II and cathepsin D levels after ICH. Our results demonstrated that autophagy occurs after ICH, and iron has a key role in ICH-induced autophagy. This also suggests that iron-induced autophagy may play a role in brain injury in other diseases associated with iron overload.
Elasticities of Krull domains with finite divisor class group

Abstract Fix any positive integer b, and consider the set ϒ( Z b ) of all values ρ(R), where R is a Krull domain with divisor class group Z b , and ρ(R) denotes the elasticity of R. We focus on the case b=2p, showing that 2p−1 p ∈ϒ( Z 2p ) and ϒ( Z p )⊊ϒ( Z 2p ) . We also present a precise description of the set ϒ ⊕ i=1 k Z 2 .
Bending of Titanium Sheet Using Laser Forming

Abstract Laser forming, a novel manufacturing method for bending sheet metal first reported in 1985, has been investigated as an alternative to hot brake forming (industry standard) of titanium sheet parts for the aircraft industry. Laser forming involves scanning a focused or partially defocused laser beam over the surface of a titanium workpiece to cause localized heating along the bend line and angular deflection toward the beam. The main advantage that laser forming has over conventional brake forming is increased process flexibility. An experimental investigation of this process (primarily designed experiments) met the following objectives: identified the response variables related to change in geometry (bend angle) and material microstructure; characterized the influence of process variables (scanning speed, beam diameter, laser power) on these response variables; determined the degree of controllability over the process variables; and evaluated the suitability of laser forming for the aircraft industry (most important), all with respect to titanium sheet. It has been determined that laser forming with an Nd:YAG laser is a controllable, flexible manufacturing process for titanium sheet bending. Unfortunately, these advantages over traditional hot brake forming are overshadowed by the fact that, with regard to forming with titanium, laser forming is significantly slower and more labor and energy intensive, and results in unacceptable material properties at the bend line according to aircraft industry standards. These findings cast doubt over the assertions of some researchers that laser forming may be a viable manufacturing process for parts made in small batches. Instead, it appears that it may be best suited for rapid prototyping of sheet metal parts.
Trends in esophageal cancer incidence by histology, United States, 1998–2003

Esophageal adenocarcinoma rates may be increasing, whereas, squamous cell carcinoma rates appear to be decreasing in the United States. Previous population-based research on esophageal cancer has only covered up to 68% of the country. Additional, updated research on a larger percentage of the country is needed to describe racial, ethnic and regional trends in histologic subtypes of esophageal cancer. Invasive esophageal cancer cases diagnosed between 1998 and 2003 (n = 65,926), collected by the National Program of Cancer Registries or the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program, were included. These data cover 83% of the US population. Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma incidence fell by 3.6%/year, whereas esophageal adenocarcinoma increased by 2.1%/year. Squamous cell carcinoma rates decreased among both sexes in most racial or ethnic groups, whereas adenocarcinoma rates increased primarily among white or non-Hispanic men. Except for white or non-Hispanic men, squamous cell carcinoma rates were similar to, or greater than, adenocarcinoma rates for men and women of all other races and ethnicities. The largest decrease in squamous cell carcinoma rates occurred in the West census region, which also exhibited no increase in adenocarcinoma rates. The rate of regional and distant-staged adenocarcinomas increased, while rates for local-staged adenocarcinoma remained stable. This is the first article to characterize esophageal cancer trends using data covering the majority of the US. Substantial racial, ethnic and regional variation in esophageal cancer is present in the US. Our work may inform interventions related to tobacco and alcohol use, and overweight/obesity prevention, and provide avenues for further research.
Managing memory requirements in the synthesis of real-time systems from processing graphs

In the past, environmental restrictions on size, weight, and power consumption have severely limited both the processing and storage capacity of embedded signal processing systems. Today, however, as increases in processor speed and capabilities continually out pace increases in memory densities and performance, processor capacity is no longer a major concern for many signal processing applications-memory usage is now the primary concern. We present techniques for managing the memory requirements of signal processing applications in the synthesis of a real time uniprocessor system from processing graphs. To demonstrate the effectiveness of our memory management techniques, we compare the memory requirements of a statically scheduled implementation of an INMARSAT (International Maritime Satellite) mobile receiver, with our dynamic scheduling techniques. The case study demonstrates that state of the art, static schedulers use over 300% more memory than our simple, preemptive, EDF scheduler for a large class of signal processing applications.
The DOTSS (developer-off-the-shelf systems) approach: a progress report

This paper presents a progress report of ongoing research into, and marketing of, the developer-off-the-shelf systems (DOTSS) approach relative to the acquisition of information technology. The DOTSS procedure and concept is reiterated along with various terms of the ITMRA of 1996. Additional issues explored include DOTSS-related barriers, technology transfer and notions of leverage.
Beauveria Sulfurescens Mediated Oxidation of Dihydroartemisinin Derivatives

Artemisinin, a sesquiterpene which contains a labile endo-peroxide, is a promising new antimalarial drug. In order to prepare new derivatives that retain the peroxide group critical for biological activity, we employed several derivatives of dihydroartemisinin as substrates for the fungus Beauveria sulfurescens. The best substrate, arteether, yielded two mono-hydroxylated products. In the major product the C-14 methyl had been oxidized whereas the minor product contained a 9β-hydroxyl group. The structures and stereochemistry of the biotransformation products were established by mass spectrometry, 1- and 2D-NMR. The compounds were used as intermediates in the preparation of labelled compounds, an isomeric alcohol and other derivatives. This was the first time the endoperoxide group had not been destroyed in the course of introducing hydroxyl groups in an artemisinin derivative.
A Compact Reverberation Chamber for Hyper-Rayleigh Channel Emulation

Recent propagation measurements conducted for emerging applications such as vehicle-to-vehicle communications and wireless sensor systems have illustrated that present worst-case channel models are not sufficient to characterize the small-scale propagation effects seen. New theoretical models have thus been proposed but existing emulation environments do not create sufficiently severe channel conditions. In this work we present the design of a compact, reconfigurable channel emulator (CRCE) specifically designed to create Ricean, Rayleigh and hyper-Rayleigh fading environments in a repeatable manner. The bench-top sized chamber leverages concepts seen in reverberation chambers but in addition to a mechanical stirrer varies the multipath environment through the use of multiple antennas. Emulated channels illustrating space-, time- and frequency-selective behaviors are presented.
Conversation partners: Helping students gain a global perspective through cross‐cultural experiences

(1993). Conversation partners: Helping students gain a global perspective through cross‐cultural experiences. Theory Into Practice: Vol. 32, Teacher Education in Global Perspectives, pp. 21-26.
Low-head hyperfiltration through Jurassic-Cretaceous metamorphic Darrington Phyllite discs (from the Northwest Cascades of Washington State, USA)

Membrane behavior in naturally occurring and engineering systems refers to the restriction of solute migration through a membrane relative to the migration of the solvent. Hyperfiltration is the net flux that results when two solutions of different concentration are separated by a membrane and an external force is applied in excess of the osmotic pressure. Clay membranes containing layered fabric have higher efficiencies than membranes with random fabrics. Therefore, low-permeability rocks with a foliated fabric might exhibit membrane properties. Four hyperfiltration experiments were conducted on samples of Darrington Phyllite from the Easton Metamorphic Suite of the Northwest Cascades, Washington (USA). Chloride solutions were passed through thin, intact discs at relatively low heads. At the end of the experiments, dissolved chloride concentrations had increased 110–140 % and calculated reflection coefficients ranged from 0.87 to 0.88; this was attributed to partial solute rejection by the phyllite. Natural scenarios in which phyllite might exhibit membrane properties include (1) shallow perched aquifers bounded by phyllite, (2) overpressured aquifers bounded by phyllite, (3) phyllite-bounded aquifers with significant vertical groundwater flows, and (4) ultrafiltration during metamorphic devolatilization at depth. Membrane processes exhibited by phyllite may also contribute to the formation of some low-temperature ore bodies.
Characterization of probe contact noise for probes used in wafer-level testing

The characteristics of probe contact noise for tungsten probes used in wafer-level testing are presented. The effects of the biasing current and the probe contact resistance, R/sub c/, on the probe contact noise were investigated. This information is required for low-noise probe design as well as for reduction of the contact noise effects on sample noise measurements. The results show that the spectral density of the probe contact noise voltage has a 1/f frequency dependence and is proportional to V/sub c//sup 2/R/sub c//sup Gamma / where Gamma is a constant which has a value between -0.1 and 0.6 depending on the conditions of the contact interfaces. >
Abstract PL07-01: Linkage disequilibrium-based analysis of DNA repair and GST genes in malignant gliomas: A unique tool in defining the association between genetic diversity and survival

Inherited genetics are increasingly being identified as a significant factor that contributes to both treatment outcome and treatment-associated toxicities in cancer patients undergoing therapy. The specific SNPs and genes involved are, however, still poorly understood. In this study, we exploited the unique advantages of a linkage disequilibrium-based approach to examine the relationship between genetic diversity in regions of DNA repair and GST genes with survival in adults with anaplastic astrocytoma and glioblastoma multiforme treated on temozolomide and carmustine-based protocols. We genotyped a subset of 1,267 tagging SNPs within or near haplotype blocks of 27 genes in 301 patients. The SNPs were selected to be in high LD with and, thus, to be predictive of the diversity of the target region containing the gene and 20 kb flanking 3′ and 5′ of it. Genotyping was conducted on a high-throughput customized Affymetrix platform. Associations between genotypes and survival was performed using the Fisher9s exact test, after testing for Hardy-Weinberg conformity and gender mismatches. The results identified several tSNPs in and around the loci of 11 genes (EXO1, DDB2, LIG1, MGMT, MSH2, MSH4, PAN3, RAD52, TDG, XRCC1, and XRCC5) to be highly associated with survival. Several other SNPs showing a statistical tendency to be associative. Although, a number of SNPs/genes was associated with survival in both anaplastic astrocytoma and GBM, a subset of genes and SNPs were associative in GBMs but not in AAs and vice versa. We then examined 28 SNPs in all eight members of the GST family (A1, M1, M3, P1, O1, S1, T and Z) allowing the identification of seven specific SNPs that were highly associated with treatment outcome/survival. The identification of highly polymorphic regions associated with the loci of DNA repair and GST genes as determinants of alkylating agent-based therapy in malignant gliomas is consistent with the established role of enhanced DNA repair and drug metabolism in tumor resistance to these agents. Ongoing studies are directed at these associative SNPs to gain insight into the biology underlying their association with treatment outcome. Supported by grants RO1 CA 153050, RO1 CA127872, RO1 CA 112519 and P30-CA114236 from the NIH, USA. Citation Information: Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2011;20(10 Suppl):PL07-01.
Effect of spinal cord injury on the permeability of the blood-brain and blood-spinal cord barriers to the neurotropin PACAP.

Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) has been shown to be a potent neurotropin. Because PACAP crosses the blood-brain barrier (BBB) by peptide transport system (PTS)-6, it can exert its neurotropic effects even when given peripherally. Recent studies have shown that the activity of BBB transporters of peptides and regulatory proteins can be affected by pathophysiological events, including spinal cord injury. We, therefore, determined whether PTS-6 is affected by spinal cord injury. We found that radioactively iodinated PACAP was taken up by brain and by all regions of the spinal cord. PTS-6 activity was demonstrable in the brain and the cervical and thoracic regions of the spinal cord. Spinal cord transection had widespread and long-lasting effects throughout the CNS on PTS-6 activity. The most dramatic effect was an anatomically descending decrease of PTS-6 activity that began in the brain immediately after injury. Later, beginning on day 7 after injury, PTS-6 activity was increased throughout the CNS. These effects on PTS-6 were unrelated to the negligible disruption of barrier function by the injury. We conclude that spinal cord injury results in responses that are regionally and temporally unique to PTS-6 and could affect the delivery of blood-borne PACAP to the CNS.
Feedforward control for reduced run-to-run variation in microelectronics manufacturing

Increased manufacturing yields can be obtained by reducing process variation. One potential method to achieve lower process variance is through interprocess feedforward control. During feedforward control, a process recipe is adjusted to compensate for measured input deviations. The potential benefits of feedforward control include reduced run-to-run variance, rework, and scrap. Feedforward control has been used often in manufacturing. However, there are two problematic issues associated with feedforward recipe adjustment: 1) there is noise in the measurement tool and adjusting for inaccurate measurements could increase the variance and 2) it is difficult to alter one parameter in a manufacturing process without worsening other key parameters. In this paper, we will address both issues using a systems approach. Measurement noise poses a significant threat to the success of feedforward control. If the measurement noise is sufficiently large, the variance under feedforward control could exceed the variance with no control. To address this concern, we have integrated statistics theory into the feedforward controller design. This detunes the recipe adjustment based on the confidence in the accuracy of the sensor. These algorithms have the effect of filtering the noise from the measurement tool. In order to address the problem of altering one parameter without adversely affecting others, one can use a feedforward controller that selects a recipe from within a predefined set of allowable qualified recipes. We call this feedforward recipe selection control (FRSC). We have developed a design methodology for this type of controller. Preliminary versions of our design algorithms have been implemented into a graphical user interface (GUI)-based computer-aided design (CAD) environment. This interactive software package guides the engineer through the design of feedforward controllers using process data as inputs.
A Novel Allele of kaiA Shortens the Circadian Period and Strengthens Interaction of Oscillator Components in the Cyanobacterium Synechococcus elongatus PCC 7942

The basic circadian oscillator of the unicellular fresh water cyanobacterium Synechococcus elongatus PCC 7942, the model organism for cyanobacterial circadian clocks, consists of only three protein components: KaiA, KaiB, and KaiC. These proteins, all of which are homomultimers, periodically interact to form large protein complexes with stoichiometries that depend on the phosphorylation state of KaiC. KaiA stimulates KaiC autophosphorylation through direct physical interactions. Screening a library of S. elongatus transposon mutants for circadian clock phenotypes uncovered an atypical short-period mutant that carries a kaiA insertion. Genetic and biochemical analyses showed that the short-period phenotype is caused by the truncation of KaiA by three amino acid residues at its C terminus. The disruption of a negative element upstream of the kaiBC promoter was another consequence of the insertion of the transposon; when not associated with a truncated kaiA allele, this mutation extended the circadian period. The circadian rhythm of KaiC phosphorylation was conserved in these mutants, but with some modifications in the rhythmic pattern of KaiC phosphorylation, such as the ratio of phosphorylated to unphosphorylated KaiC and the relative phase of the circadian phosphorylation peak. The results showed that there is no correlation between the phasing of the KaiC phosphorylation pattern and the rhythm of gene expression, measured as bioluminescence from luciferase reporter genes. The interaction between KaiC and the truncated KaiA was stronger than normal, as shown by fluorescence anisotropy analysis. Our data suggest that the KaiA-KaiC interaction and the circadian pattern of KaiC autophosphorylation are both important for determining the period, but not the relative phasing, of circadian rhythms in S. elongatus.
PhoU Is a Persistence Switch Involved in Persister Formation and Tolerance to Multiple Antibiotics and Stresses in Escherichia coli

When a bactericidal antibiotic is added to a growing bacterial culture, the great majority of the bacterial population is killed but a small number of metabolically quiescent bacteria called persisters survive antibiotic treatment. The mechanism of this bacterial persistence is poorly understood. In Escherichia coli, we identified a new persistence gene, phoU, whose inactivation leads to a generalized higher susceptibility than that of the parent strain to a diverse range of antibiotics, including ampicillin, norfloxacin, and gentamicin, and stresses, such as starvation, acid pH, heat, peroxide, weak acids, and energy inhibitors, especially in stationary phase. The PhoU mutant phenotype could be complemented by a functional phoU gene. Mutation in PhoU leads to a metabolically hyperactive status of the cell, as shown by an increased expression of energy production genes, flagella, and chemotaxis genes and a defect in persister formation. PhoU, whose expression is regulated by environmental changes like nutrient availability and age of culture, is a global negative regulator beyond its role in phosphate metabolism and facilitates persister formation by the suppression of many important cellular metabolic processes. A new model of persister formation based on PhoU as a persister switch is proposed. PhoU may be an ideal drug target for designing new drugs that kill persister bacteria for more effective control of bacterial infections.
Genetic Analysis of Sliding Motility in Mycobacterium smegmatis

A screen for nonsliding mutants of Mycobacterium smegmatis yielded 20 mutants with transposon insertions in the mps gene, which is involved in glycopeptidolipid biosynthesis. One mutant had an insertion in a gene predicted to encode a membrane transport protein. All mutants lacked glycopeptidolipids and were unable to form biofilms on polyvinyl chloride.
Comparison of metronidazole and chloroquine for the treatment of amoebic liver abscess. A controlled trial.

Chloroquine and metronidazole were compared in a randomized trial for the treatment of amoebic liver abscess in 36 patients. An additional 30 patients were treated without randomization. Chloroquine was given according to the standard protocol at Los Angeles County-University of Southern California Medical Center, which is 500 mg daily for 10 weeks, whereas metronidazole was given in a dose of 750 mg three times daily for 10 days. Criteria for the diagnosis of amoebic abscess included (a) a suitable clinical picture, (b) filling defect on hepatic scan, (c) high titer of antibody to Entamoeba histolytica by indirect hemagglutination, and (d) eventual complete recovery with treatment or appropriate findings on autopsy examination. Treatment failure, defined as illness that persisted beyond 10 days or recurred after that time, occurred in 1 of 28 patients treated with chloroquine and in 2 of 36 treated with metronidazole. In 2 patients who died it was difficult to assess the result of drug therapy. We conclude that both drugs are highly effective. Metronidazole has the advantage of effectiveness against intestinal amoebiasis and the probability of cure with a shorter course of treatment. Speed of response was slightly greater with metronidazole and was somewhat related to abscess size.
Monolithic Optical Beam Steering Over Selectively Intermixed GaAs/AlGaAs QW Laser Structure

We demonstrate monolithic integration of optical beam steering over semiconductor laser. Carrier-induced guiding is utilized to confine and steer an optical beam laterally over two nearby quantum well regions selectively intermixed to varying extents
Competing and Cooperating across State Borders in Economic Development A Call for “Coopertition”

This essay discusses the evolution of cross-border cooperation in local and state government in the contentious and competitive arena of economic development. Drawing on literatures from economic development and public administration, the authors highlight current issues and conflicts in cross-border cooperation drawing on several cases of successful ventures. In particular, they suggest that state and local governments adopt a new frame for understanding and evaluating cross-border cooperation as economic development “coopertition.” The logic of coopertition in economic development is that while a particular unit of government may not secure a specific economic development project, the odds of securing any project are increased if that government becomes more competitive by cooperating with other governments. Coopertition is thus the result of a need to cooperate to be more competitive.
Thiamine-Responsive Congenital Lactic Acidosis Without MC

Six infants with thiamine-responsive congenital lactic acidosis (CLA), normal pyruvate dehydrogenase complex activity, and no evidence of mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, are reported from Tottori University, Yonago; National Children’s Medical Center, Tokyo, and other centers in Japan.
Simultaneous Hydrogen Generation and Waste Acid Neutralization in a Reverse Electrodialysis System

Waste acid streams produced at industrial sites are often co-located with large sources of waste heat (e.g., industrial exhaust gases, cooling water, and heated equipment). Reverse electrodialysis (RED) systems can be used to generate electrical power and hydrogen gas using waste heat-derived solutions, but high electrode overpotentials limit system performance. We show here that an ammonium bicarbonate (AmB) RED system can achieve simultaneous waste acid neutralization and in situ hydrogen production, while capturing energy from excess waste heat. The rate of acid neutralization was dependent on stack flow rate and increased 50× (from 0.06 ± 0.04 to 3.0 ± 0.32 pH units min–1 m–2 membrane), as the flow rate increased 6× (from 100 to 600 mL min–1). Acid neutralization primarily took place due to ammonium electromigration (37 ± 4%) and proton diffusion (60 ± 5%). The use of a synthetic waste acid stream as a catholyte (pH ≈ 2) also increased hydrogen production rates by 65% (from 5.3 ± 0.5 to 8.7 ± 0.1 m3 H...
Surface Plasmon-Mediated Chemical Solution Deposition of Cu Nanoparticle Films

The photothermal heating of plasmonic metal nanostructures can be exploited for bottom-up nanofabrication via surface plasmon-mediated chemical solution deposition (SPMCSD). Herein, we demonstrate the versatility of this plasmon-mediated strategy with a rapid deposition (t ≈ 5 min) of metallic copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) on a silver (Ag) film on nanosphere (AgFON) substrate under low-power, visible-light irradiation (I0 = 2.0 W/cm2, λ > 435 nm). The resultant plasmonic nanostructures exhibit significant optical extinction and enriched chemical affinity for Raman probe molecules, rendering the hybrid AgFON/Cu substrate a suitable plasmonic platform for chemical sensing via surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS).
Spatio-temporal distribution of multiple cropping systems in the Poyang Lake region

Agricultural land use and management is one of the most direct means by which humans impact the earth system,with significant negative environmental effects at local to global scales due to altered ecosystem processes,patterns and resource use.Multiple cropping is of particular interest because agricultural intensification has increased pressure on water resources,ecosystems,and biodiversity due to increased water withdrawals for irrigation and higher energy inputs due to mechanization and the production of chemical fertilizer.The Poyang Lake region is one of the most intensified agricultural regions in southern China,and the spatial and temporal pattern of cropping systems is determined not only by climate and water availability.Population pressure,social and economic conditions and policies,flood risks,and individual farmers′ management decisions also have profound impacts.Therefore,the spatial pattern and temporal process of multiple cropping is quite complex.In this paper,we combined agro-meteorological observation data and MODIS data with a resolution of 500m at 8-day intervals to explore a novel and robust method to examine spatial and temporal dynamics of multiple cropping and crop calendar using a MODIS/EVI time series curve.The results indicate that a cropping intensity algorithm based on this data is potentially applicable for monitoring agricultural intensification.Spatial and temporal variability of multiple cropping may be the result of farmers′ dynamic adaptation to local climate,socio-economic conditions,and food security.An explicit spatial and temporal analysis of the complex dynamics of multiple cropping in the context of coupled human and natural systems is necessary for modeling and evaluating the impacts of human activity on global environmental change and food security.
Research of impact of Zinc salt on in vitro respiratory syncytial virus

Objective To study the impact of Zinc salt on respiratory syncytial virus(RSV).Methods The cytopathic inhibition assay was used to observe the inhibiting effect of Zinc salt on RSV in the HEP-2 cells,with the inhibition index as the evaluation indictor.Results Zinc sulfate and Zinc acetate at the concentrations of 10-100 μm/mL had no toxic effects on the cells.Earlier virus and later Zinc salt test showed that the inhibiting indicator of Zinc sulfate and Zinc acetate at the concentration of 50 μm/mL was 2.Earlier Zinc salt and later virus test showed that the inhibiting indicator of Zinc sulfate and Zinc acetate at the concentration of 25 μm/mL was 4.Conclusion Zinc has a direct killing effect on the RSV and therefore regular Zinc supplement can prevent RSV infection.
Secretagogue-induced changes in intracellular pH and amylase release in mouse pancreatic acini

The response of the intracellular pH (pHi) to stimulation of enzyme secretion in pancreatic acini was measured using the fluorescent dye 2'-7'-bis(carboxyethyl)-5(6)-carboxyfluorescein. Acini suspended in pH 7.40 buffer demonstrated cytoplasmic alkalinization of 0.17, 0.14, and 0.15 pH units 2 min after addition of the secretagogues carbachol (10(-5) M), caerulein (10(-10) M), and bromo-A23187 (10(-6) M). Corresponding net stimulated amylase secretion over 30 min was 9.2, 10.3, and 5.6% of total content, respectively. Pretreatment of acini with atropine blocked the pHi rise induced by carbachol; addition of atropine 2 min after the carbachol did not reverse the alkalinization. Acini suspended in Ca2+ free buffer containing 0.1 or 0.2 mM ethylene glycol tetraacetic acid showed 0.21 and 0.10 pH unit alkalinization in response to caerulein (10(-10) M) and carbachol (10(-5) M) but no change in pHi after addition of bromo-A23187. Amylase release in response to increasing concentrations of caerulein was maximal at 10(-10) M, with decreasing rates of amylase release at higher drug concentrations (10(-8), 10(-7) M). Alkalinization in response to stimulation of secretion was maximal at 10(-8) M caerulein (0.30 pH units at 2 min) but was of lesser magnitude at 10(-7) M. Pancreatic acini demonstrated autoregulation of pHi over a range of external pH from 7.4 to 7.1. Net amylase release over 30 min in response to 10(-5) M carbachol was sustained at normal levels in buffers of pH varying between 7.7 and 6.5. In contrast, cytoplasmic alkalinization in response to carbachol occurred only in buffers with pH values between 7.40 and 7.10. These results indicate that amylase release occurs over a wide range of pHi and is not invariably associated with secretagogue-induced alkalinization.
Policy incentives and adoption of agricultural anaerobic digestion: A survey of Europe and the United States

Despite extensive and widespread knowledge of the advantages of agricultural anaerobic digestion (AD), adoption of the technology has not been uniform across the globe. What explains this uneven adoption across countries? Policy and empirical evidence from five case study countries – Germany, Denmark, Netherlands, Austria and the United States – indicate that rather than comparative technological advantage or abundance in feedstock availability, differences in adoption was the outcome of differences in policy incentives, notably the feed-in tariff, a finding that offers empirical support to the threshold model of adoption. The stable financial support of a feed-in tariff provided to investors in agricultural AD, particularly in Germany, led to wide adoption. The evidence also suggests that differences in the enactment of the feed-in tariff was influenced by energy security concerns for policy leaders, but by learning-by-doing in terms of policy implementation and lower operating costs for policy followers.
Audition Electives: Do Audition Electives Improve Competitiveness in the National Residency Matching Program?

Every year in the U.S., fourth-year medical students participate in audition electives with the expectation that the experience will increase their competitiveness in the match. Although many students devote considerable time and money to pursue these elective rotations, the process is not well documented or understood. The purpose of the study reported here was to identify the perspectives and beliefs held by medical students, residency program directors, and Careers in Medicine Liaisons about the significance of audition electives via online surveys. Despite the unpredictability of audition elective experiences, some students believe they are necessary and are willing to devote considerable resources for the opportunity. Further research is needed to examine audition elective outcomes at the individual student level and characterize program director feedback by specialty area.
Thymic carcinoma with metastasis in a 29-year-old male causing radiculopathy

Thymic carcinoma is a rare, aggressive neoplasm with low 5-year survival rates ranging from 28 to 67%. Initial presentation with spinal or bone metastasis in primary thymic carcinoma is extremely rare. Thymic carcinoma, compared with thymoma, has higher recurrence rates and worse survival. We report one patient, a 29-year-old African-American male, with thymic carcinoma with metastasis to the epidural space (with cord compression), multiple bony structures (T10-L1) and left supraclavicular lymph node. Immunohistochemical staining was CD5 and c-Kit positive, consistent with thymic carcinoma. Patient underwent T12-L1 laminectomy with tumor resection to relieve cord compression and leg numbness/weakness. Patient was deemed a good candidate for rehabilitation. Soon after starting a rehabilitation program, he quickly demonstrated gains in gait distance with little to no assistance. Follow-up appointments with oncology were scheduled, and further planning of radiation and chemotherapy treatments were discussed.
Charon's light curves, as observed by New Horizons’ Ralph color camera (MVIC) on approach to the Pluto system

Light curves produced from color observations taken during New Horizons’ approach to the Pluto-system by its Multi-spectral Visible Imaging Camera (MVIC, part of the Ralph instrument) are analyzed. Fifty seven observations were analyzed, they were obtained between 9th April and 3rd July 2015, at a phase angle of 14.5° to 15.1°, sub-observer latitude of 51.2 °N to 51.5 °N, and a sub-solar latitude of 41.2°N. MVIC has four color channels; all are discussed for completeness but only two were found to produce reliable light curves: Blue (400–550 nm) and Red (540–700 nm). The other two channels, Near Infrared (780–975 nm) and Methane-Band (860–910 nm), were found to be potentially erroneous and too noisy respectively. The Blue and Red light curves show that Charon's surface is neutral in color, but slightly brighter on its Pluto-facing hemisphere. This is consistent with previous studies made with the Johnson B and V bands, which are at shorter wavelengths than that of the MVIC Blue and Red channel respectively.
Locating and applying critical discourse analysis within education policy

This article introduces the first of a two-part Special Issue on Discourse Perspectives and Education Policy. This first special issue is focused on critical discourse analysis and education policy. Within this article, we provide a brief overview of discourse analysis generally and critical discourse analysis specifically. We highlight some of the ways in which policy researchers have applied the theories and methods associated with CDA and note the methodological and substantive contributions of this work. Then, we provide an overview of the six papers included within this special issue, noting each paper’s key points and explicit links to policy. We conclude by pointing to future directions for research at the intersection of education policy and discourse studies.
A Response to Articles and Commentaries on The Witch-Hunt Narrative.

The articles and comments in this issue bear out the enduring impact of The Witchhunt Narrative. There is not sufficient space to acknowledge or respond to most of this feedback. This response corr...
Let's Solve the Problem before We Find the Answer.

Ask a roomful of elementary mathematics teachers where their students have the most trouble, and the chorus of "problem solving" is overwhelming. Teachers reply this way because it is true. Study after study continues to cite the area of problem solving as the number-one concern in the classrooms of America as was recently well documented (Suydam 1982, 5660). Some students who can perform arithmetical computation quite well often have difficulty solving word problems that require the application of those same computational skills. Why is this? What is so difficult about solving word problems? The answer may lie in the discrepancy that exists between the skills commonly taught
Long-term effect of tumor necrosis factor and gamma interferon in human pancreatic carcinoma cells.

The long-term cytotoxic/cytostatic effects of recombinant human tumor necrosis factor alpha (rhTNF) and gamma interferon (rhIFN-7) were studied in five human pancreatic carcinoma cell lines. The pancreatic tumor cell lines were heterogenous in their response to individual cytokines. During a 7-d incubation, MIA PaCa-2 cells were more sensitive to rhTNF than rhIFN-γ, whereas ASPC-1, T3M4, and COLO 357 cells were more sensitive to rhIFN-γ than rhTNF. PANC-1 cells were relatively insensitive to both cytokines. In a previous report, we demonstrated synergistic cytotoxic effects of rhTNF and rhIFN-γ during 48-h incubations in ASPC-1 and COLO 357 cells (Raitano et al,Pancreas, April, 1990). In this study, a 7-d treatment with both rhTNF and rhIFN-γ did not produce synergistic effects in any of the cell lines. However, a 24-h treatment with rhIFN-γ, followed by removal of the cytokine, markedly increased the long-term cytotoxic/cytostatic effects of rhTNF in ASPC-1, COLO 357, and T3M4 cells. In contrast, a similar pretreatment with rhTNF did not increase the long-term cytotoxic/cytostatic effects of rhIFN-γ in any of the cell lines. These data suggest that, in some human pancreatic carcinoma cell lines, rhIFN-γ may be especially useful in the long-term suppression of growth. Furthermore, brief pulses of rhIFN-γ may also be especially efficacious when followed by a subsequent prolonged exposure of cells to rhTNF.
The Pathology of Prostatic Carcinoma

Adenocarcinoma of the prostate (also referred to a prostatic carcinoma) comprises 95 % of prostatic neoplasms. The pathologic diagnosis of prostatic carcinoma is based on a combination of features. The diagnostic features are grouped into primary criteria (architectural) and secondary criteria (cytologic). Tertiary criteria (cytoplasmic and luminal) are supportive of the diagnosis. In diagnostically challenging cases, immunohistochemical stains are used to confirm the diagnosis. Mimickers of prostatic carcinoma are described, including clear cell cribriform hyperplasia, atrophy, basal cell hyperplasia, atypical adenomatous hyperplasia, and seminal vesicle epithelium.
An economic analysis of the relation of farm land values and returns

This study is an evaluation of the relation between farm land values and the returns to farm land. The primary motivation for this study has been to explain the observed relation between farm land values and returns which has in some years been contradictory to the suggested theoretical relation between land values and returns. The primary objective of this study has been to examine the importance of growth of the returns to farm land in explaining the historical levels of farm land and its relationship with the returns to farm land. Data were collected on the values of cash rented farms and estimates of gross cash rents paid on those for 24 states for the period 1929-1980. Twelve states were selected for analysis. The 12 states were Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Michigan, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, and Oklahoma;The theoretical land value model was developed from the present value approach for determining values. The explanatory variables identified from this approach are the returns to farm land, the capitalization rate, the growth rate of the returns to farm land, the inflation rate, inflation rate, and taxes. Because of lack of data, taxes are not included in the empirical models;The empirical models to determine the association between the explanatory variables and farm land values were estimated by regression analysis. Two basic sets of regression were estimated; one using farm land value per acre as the dependent variable and one using the ratio of gross cash rent to farm land value as the dependent variable. The results of the empirical models indicate that gross cash rents are strongly related to farm land values. In general, the growth rate of gross cash rents did not perform as expected. The coefficient on nominal and real growth rates was significantly different from zero but did not have the correct sign. The coefficients on the lagged growth rates were found to be not significantly different from zero. The general rise in the price level did not appear to have a significant impact on the nominal or real value of farm land. The capitalization factor was found to be statistically significant in estimating the rent-to-value ratio;Granger causality tests were also applied to the data. Overall, the results did not support the hypothesis that gross cash rents "caused," in the Granger sense, farm land values.
Evidence-Based Assessment and Treatment of Specific Phobias in Children and Adolescents

In this chapter, we review evidence-based assessment and treatment for specific phobias in children and adolescents (hereafter referred as children unless otherwise specified). For far too many years, the assessment and treatment of these disorders, and other childhood disorders, have been guided not by evidence but by particular theories, independent of the evidentiary support for them. In this chapter, we illustrate assessment and treatment practices that “work” and that have an ever-evolving evidence base for their use in clinical practice. In doing so, we hope to not only advance our understanding of specific phobias in children and their families but also to identify and promulgate effective interventions.
Tapping into the Health Wisdom of Crowd: Trends in Healthcare Social Networks

Web 2.0 technologies have given rise to Health 2.0, i.e., health social networks (HSNs). Citizens everywhere are flocking towards such HSNs that have the potential to empower them towards wellbeing and healthy living. This paper analyzes 37 best-known commercial HSN sites and evaluates them based on an existing evaluation criterion. As a result of a deeper understanding of the sampled HSNs, we develop a three-dimension framework to help categorize HSNs. Such a framework can aid in the design process of HSNs. The paper points out a need towards establishing best practices for design, information privacy and e-literacy aspects of evolving HSNs of the future.
Substantia nigra dopamine neurons evoke a delayed excitation in lateral dorsal striatal cholinergic interneurons via glutamate cotransmission

Dopamine neurons have different synaptic actions in the ventral and dorsal striatum (dStr), but whether this heterogeneity extends to dStr subregions has not been addressed. We have found that optogenetic activation of dStr dopamine neuron terminals in mouse brain slices pauses the firing of cholinergic interneurons in both the medial and lateral subregions, while in the lateral subregion the pause is shorter due to a subsequent excitation. This excitation is mediated mainly by metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 (mGluR1) and partially by dopamine D1-like receptors coupled to transient receptor potential channel 3 and 7. DA neurons do not signal to spiny projection neurons in the medial dStr, while they elicit ionotropic glutamate responses in the lateral dStr. The DA neurons mediating these excitatory signals are in the substantia nigra (SN). Thus, SN dopamine neurons engage different receptors in different postsynaptic neurons in different dStr subregions to convey strikingly different signals.
Some Preliminary Studies of the Rapid Variations in the Index of Refraction of Atmospheric Air at Microwave Frequencies

The index of refraction of atmospheric air at microwave frequencies is being measured with equipment which compares the resonant frequency of a cavity through which air is being drawn with that of ...
Transit access and neighborhood segregation. Evidence from the Dallas light rail system

Abstract I study the effect of transit access on neighborhood incomes by exploiting a quasi-experimental setting of an extensively planned, but only partially built urban rail system in Dallas. I show that neighborhood income in census tracts that received rail access increases compared to neighborhoods that were promised to receive access, but did not due to funding cuts. The treatment effect is positively correlated with initial neighborhood income and negative for the poorest tracts. This reconciles gentrification and “poverty magnet” effects of rail infrastructure found in the earlier literature and highlights the role of transit as a potential incubator for income segregation.
Integrative taxonomy refutes a species hypothesis: The asymmetric hybrid origin of Arsapnia arapahoe (Plecoptera, Capniidae)

Molecular tools are commonly directed at refining taxonomies and the species that constitute their fundamental units. This has been especially insightful for groups for which species hypotheses are ambiguous and have largely been based on morphological differences between certain life stages or sexes, and has added importance when taxa are a focus of conservation efforts. Here, we examine the taxonomic status of Arsapnia arapahoe, a winter stonefly in the family Capniidae that is a species of conservation concern because of its limited abundance and restricted range in northern Colorado, USA. Phylogenetic analyses of sequences of mitochondrial and nuclear genes of this and other capniid stoneflies from this region and elsewhere in western North America indicated extensive haplotype sharing, limited genetic differences, and a lack of reciprocal monophyly between A. arapahoe and the sympatric A. decepta, despite distinctive and consistent morphological differences in the sexual apparatus of males of both species. Analyses of autosomal and sex-linked single nucleotide polymorphisms detected using genotyping by sequencing indicated that all individuals of A. arapahoe consisted of F1 hybrids between female A. decepta and males of another sympatric stonefly, Capnia gracilaria. Rather than constitute a self-sustaining evolutionary lineage, A. arapahoe appears to represent the product of nonintrogressive hybridization in the limited area of syntopy between two widely distributed taxa. This offers a cautionary tale for taxonomists and conservation biologists working on the less-studied components of the global fauna.
TRANSESOPHAGEAL ATRIAL PACING FOR TERMINATION OF ATRIAL TACHYCARDIA DURING PREGNANCY

Transesophageal overdrive atrial pacing (TEAP) is a minimally invasive technique for terminating atrial tachycardia (AT). Use of TEAP in pregnant women is limited, while the more commonly used direct current cardioversion (DCCV) for AT can be dangerous to the fetus. We report TEAP successfully
Family can endure what partnership cannot: A consideration of historical, cultural, and newly arising barriers to missions in China:

Relationships between American mission organizations and Chinese house church pastors are currently facing increasing difficulty and strain. To date, the dominant metaphor for how these two members...