cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Breath biomarkers in environmental health science: exploring patterns in the human exposome

The human genome is the counterpart to the human exposome with respect to the gene × environment interaction that describes health state and outcome. The genome has already been sequenced and is in the process of being assessed for specific functionality; to similarly decode the exposome will require the measurement and interpretation of suites of biomarker compounds in biological media such as blood, breath and urine. Of these, exhaled breath provides some important advantages for community or population-based studies in that the supply is essentially unlimited, the sampling procedures are non-invasive and can be self-administered, and there are little, if any, infectious wastes generated. The main concerns are to document a variety of compounds in breath, to assess what compounds and concentrations are considered statistically 'normal' in the healthy or unremarkably exposed population, and what graphic and mathematical approaches can be applied to assess outlier measurements as perturbations to the healthy exposome. In this paper, we explore a data set of exhaled breath measurements of exogenous exposures to jet fuel and develop summary statistics and variable clustering methods to establish between-group and intrinsic within-sample patterns that could be used to assess the status of random subjects.
Lifetimes of high-frequency phonons

A comparison is made between experimentally and theoretically obtained lifetimes of longitudinal acoustic phonons in ${\mathrm{Al}}_{2}$${\mathrm{O}}_{3}$, Sr${\mathrm{F}}_{2}$, Ca${\mathrm{F}}_{2}$, La${\mathrm{F}}_{3}$, and $\ensuremath{\alpha}$-quartz. Theoretical predictions based on an isotropic, dispersionless Debye solid are shown not be be consistent with most of the experimental results.
Response of chronic pain patients to terrorism: the role of underlying depression.

Objectives. This study seeks to identify characteristics of the chronic pain patient population that may increase vulnerability to vicariously experienced psychological trauma. Design. Characteristics, including demographics and psychological measures, were evaluated by modeling change in visit rates to a university pain center immediately after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Setting. University pain center. Patients. A total of 570 patients with chronic pain. Outcome Measures. Visit rates, psychologists evaluation of depression, Beck Depression Inventory. Results. Evaluation of psychological measures showed that depression was the most effective predictor of the postattack visit rate increase in chronic pain patients. The visit rate for nondepressed patients did not change significantly after the attacks, but approximately doubled for depressed patients. A more detailed analysis, performed by categorizing patients into one of four levels of depression, found that patients classified as “Mild to Moderately” depressed were most likely to show an increase in visits after the attacks. Conclusions. Chronic pain patients represent a vulnerable population, and the current study posits the possibility of predicting the most vulnerable individuals within that population. With information commonly contained in medical records, target populations may be identified for potential psychological trauma intervention to reduce the sequelae of vicariously experienced psychological trauma.
Time-resolved photon emission from layered turbid media

We present numerical and experimental results of time-resolved emission profiles from various layered turbid media. Numerical solutions determined by time-resolved Monte Carlo simulations are compared with measurements on layered-tissue phantoms made from gelatin. In particular, we show that in certain cases the effects of the upper layers can be eliminated. As a practical example, these results are used to analyze in vivo measurements on the human head. This demonstrates the influence of skin, skull, and meninges on the determination of the blood oxygenation in the brain.
Electrochemical investigation of the energetics of particulate titanium dioxide photocatalysts. The methyl viologen-acetate system

Addition of methyl viologen (MV/sup 2 +/) enhances the anodic currents observed for TiO/sub 2/ suspensions under illumination by trapping of photogenerated electrons with formation of MV/sup +/. The magnitude of the photocurrent depends upon the relative location of the semiconductor Fermi level and E/sub redox/ of the MV/sup 2 +//MV/sup +/.couple. The location of the Fermi level in the anatase powders was estimated as -0.05 V vs. NHE (pH 0) based on the observed variation of photocurrent with pH. The shift in the quasi-Fermi level with light intensity is also discussed.
Double ionization of helium by protons and electrons at high velocities

Double ionization of helium at high projectile velocities, $v$, is considered in terms of two mechanisms. In the shakeoff mechanism the ratio of double- to single-ionization cross sections, $\frac{{\ensuremath{\sigma}}^{\mathrm{ii}}}{{\ensuremath{\sigma}}^{i}}$, is independent of $v$. In the two-step mechanism it is shown that $\frac{{\ensuremath{\sigma}}^{\mathrm{ii}}}{{\ensuremath{\sigma}}^{i}}\ensuremath{\sim}{({v}^{2}\mathrm{ln}v)}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$. Combining amplitudes gives a reasonable fit to the observed velocity dependence as well as an explanation of the observed factor-of-2 differences between double ionization of helium by protons and electrons near $v\ensuremath{\simeq}10{v}_{\mathrm{Bohr}}$.
Formaldehyde as a semirigid bender: The rotation-inversion spectrum in its Ã1A2 excited state

Abstract The semirigid bender Hamiltonian [Bunker and Landsberg, J. Mol. Spectrosc. 67, 374–385 (1977)] was used to fit the rotation-inversion energy level separations in the A 1 A 2 excited state of formaldehyde. We fix the r0(CH) bond length and allow the R(CO) bond length and (HĈH) bond angle to vary with the inversion angle ρ. The fit to 64 rotation-inversion energies (with v4 and J X 1 A 1 ground electronic state of H2CO. For this, a simple potential consisting of quadratic and quartic terms is used and the standard deviation of the fit is 0.148 cm−1.
Supporting the Formal Analysis of Software Systems

The formal analysis support environment, Advanced Design Employing Pattern Templates (ADEPT), is outlined. The use of ADEPT will alleviate the software engineer from the minute details that conducting formal analysis by hand requires. The developer will be able to experiment with a variety of derivations from specifications, architectural structures, and mixtures of quality attributes; thereby, gaining new insight into potential versions of high-quality, verifiable code.
Expression and Characterization of a Heme Oxygenase (Hmu O) fromCorynebacterium diphtheriae IRON ACQUISITION REQUIRES OXIDATIVE CLEAVAGE OF THE HEME MACROCYCLE

Abstract A full-length heme oxygenase gene from the pathogenic bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae has been subcloned and expressed in Escherichia coli. The enzyme is expressed at high levels as a soluble catalytically active protein that results in the accumulation of biliverdin within the E. coli cells. The purified heme oxygenase forms a 1:1 complex with heme (K d = 2.5 ± 1 μm) and has hemeprotein spectra similar to those previously reported for the purified eukaryotic heme oxygenases. In the presence of an E. coli NADPH-dependent reductase isolated during the purification of Hmu O, the heme-Hmu O complex is catalytically turned over to yield biliverdin IXα and carbon monoxide. A number of redox partners were investigated for their ability to reconstitute Hmu O activity in vitro. Of these the most efficient appeared to be the recombinant NADH-dependent putidaredoxin/putidaredoxin reductase from Pseudomonas putida. As with the E. coliNADPH-dependent reductase the final products of the reaction were biliverdin IXα and carbon monoxide. This is the first bacterial heme oxygenase to be described to date. The close relationship between iron acquisition and pathogenesis suggests that the release of iron from heme by heme oxygenase may play a crucial role in the pathogenicity of C. diphtheriae.
Structure/property relationships in ferroelectric thin films for frequency agile microwave electronics

Abstract Ferroelectric thin films, deposited by pulsed laser deposition (PLD), are currently being used to develop a new class of tunable microwave circuits based on the electric field dependence of the dielectric constant. Single phase, (100) oriented Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 (BST) films have been deposited onto (100) LaAlO3, SrTiO3, and MgO substrates. Interdigitated capacitors patterned on top of the ferroelectric film have been used to measure the dielectric constant and dissipation factor of these films as a function of DC bias and temperature at 1 MHz and as a function of DC bias and frequency (1 to 20 GHz) at room temperature. The dielectric properties of the ferroelectric film is sensitive to both the deposition and post processing conditions. Optical imaging of the ferroelectric films using confocal scanning optical microscopy (CSOM) shows reproducible polarization fluctuations over sub-micrometer length scales for BST films deposited onto SrTiO3 which are not observed for films deposited onto MgO. Dielect...
Potential Vorticity Dynamics of Tropical Instability Vortices

AbstractTropical instability vortices (TIVs) in the equatorial Pacific exhibit energetic horizontal and vertical circulation characterized by regions of high Rossby number and low Richardson number. Their strong anticyclonic vorticity and vertical shear can influence the broader-scale circulation by driving lateral mixing and vertical exchange between the ocean surface and interior. The authors use a set of nested high-resolution simulations of the equatorial Pacific, with a finest grid size of 3 km, to examine the vortex dynamics associated with TIV core water formation. TIV cores are characterized by low values of the Ertel potential vorticity (PV) as the relative vorticity is anticyclonic with magnitude comparable to the local Coriolis parameter. A study of the variation of PV and other scalars along Lagrangian fluid parcel tracks entering the TIVs shows that the low-PV water in their cores is a mix of Equatorial Undercurrent (EUC) water and North Equatorial Counter Current (NECC) water. The EUC water ...
Left-sided partial anomalous pulmonary venous connections.

Background Left-sided partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection (PAPVC) is a congenital defect where pulmonary veins from the left lung drain into the right atrium. If left untreated, PAPVC may result in severe right ventricular failure and pulmonary vascular disease. We sought to determine the effectiveness and long-term outcome after surgical correction of this anomaly. Methods From 1954 to 2006, 376 patients were treated at our institution for PAPVC. Of these, 27 (7.1%) patients underwent surgical repair for left-sided PAPVC. Thirteen patients were treated with a minimally invasive approach and 14 were treated with median sternotomy and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Results Mean age at time of operation was 33 ± 18 years. Eleven patients had complete left-sided PAPVCs; patients with one anomalous vein had a significantly higher right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) than those with two (31 vs 42 mm Hg, p = 0.003). There was a trend toward early surgical treatment in patients with two anomalous veins (27.5 vs 34.6 years, p = 0.14). Patients who underwent off-pump correction were younger ( p = 0.04), presented later in our surgical experience ( p = 0.004), and had more tricuspid regurgitation (TR) ( p = 0.04). Repair of left-sided PAPVC was performed by left thoracotomy without CPB in 13 patients. There were no early or late deaths. Three patients were rehospitalized for cardiovascular reasons during the follow-up period. All patients had right-sided chamber reduction at follow-up, decreased RVSP ( p = 0.02), and decreased TR ( p = 0.04). Patients who presented with higher grades of TR showed evidence of pulmonary vascular disease at follow-up ( p = 0.017). Conclusions Repair of PAPVC can be completed successfully with low morbidity. Patients with left-sided PAPVC, right-sided chamber enlargement, evidence of TR, or clinical symptoms should undergo surgical repair.
A Review of a Successful Unsubsidized Market-Based Rural Solar Development Initiative in Laikipia District, Central Kenya

The development of renewable energy technologies (RETs) in many areas far from grid-based electricity have primarily involved solar photovoltaics (SPVs) which tap solar radiation to provide heat, light, hot water, electricity, and cooling for homes, businesses, and industry. A study on RETs took place in the Wiyumiririe Location of Laikipia District (north-central Kenya), a rich agricultural region. To explore this solar initiative in such a remote part of the country, a purposive randomized convenience sample of 246 households was selected and landowner interviews conducted, followed by field visits and observations. Although more than half of the households visited had SPV installations, solar energy was found to contribute only 18% of household estimated total energy needs; most residents still primarily relying on traditional energy sources. Several types of solar panels of different capacities and costs were utilized. Many landowners had at least one or two rooms using solar energy for household lighting, for appliance charging and to power radio and television. Almost all respondents appreciated that solar energy was clean renewable energy that greatly improved household living conditions; gave them some prestige; was easy to use and maintain; and was available year around. Although such significant benefits were associated with SPVs, only about 40% of residents interviewed were somehow satisfied with its development. Respondents expressed specific developmental initiatives that were closely associated with the availability of solar energy. Nevertheless, a number of challenges were raised associated with SPVs primarily investment capital and equipment costs and maintenance. As solutions to capital building will not solely rely on subsidies or individual farmer inputs, strategies must be found to mobilize the essential and tested tools for success including sustainable capital generation, building local institutions and capacities that integrate rural people, local participation in rural development activities and public education and training. Keywords: appliance charging,battery,development initiatives, household lighting, landowners,solar energy, SPVs, solar equipment and accessories
The Counselor—An Agent of What Change?

Goals in counseling must be clarified before the means of obtaining them can be determined. Success or failure can only be evaluated if these goals are stated in observable behavioral terms. The goals must be directly related to the problem or problems stated by the client. It is the initial responsibility of the counselor to help the client clarify these problems and subsequent behavioral goals through such means as discussion of the feelings of the client and the facts surrounding specific problem situations, and possibly through observation and psychometric evaluation. If the defined goals are within the bounds of the counselor's ethical standards as well as those of his profession, then means can be identified to bring about problem solution.
In vitro binding and in vivo clearance of human α2-macroglobulin after reaction with endoproteases from four different classes☆

The binding of human α2-macroglobulin complexed with trypsin, papain, thermolysin and cathepsin-D to murine macrophages was studied at 4°C. Similar dissociation constants (0.4 nM) were determined for all of the complexes except α2- macroglobulin-cathepsin-D (0.7 nM). Radioiodinated α2-macroglobulin-protease complexes were injected into mice, and the clearance studied. Native α2-macroglobulin cleared slowly, as previously reported, while greater than 50% of the complexes formed with trypsin, papain and thermolysin cleared in less than 5 min. The clearance of α2-macroglobulin-cathepsin-D was biphasic, suggesting that only about half the α2-macroglobulin was present in a reacted complex.
Curvature in the plots for the determination of rate constants derived from fast-flow techniques

Abstract The determination of rate constants by using flow techniques typically is made under pseudo-first-order reaction conditions, whereby rates are derived from semilogarithmic plots of ion intensity versus reactant gas concentration. Reproducible curvature in such plots is often taken as an indication of measurable differences in the reactivity of various ion states. In the present study, curvature is traced to effects arising from the mass flow of the buffer gas. These results, in conjunction with previous investigations, suggest that accurate determination of rate constants using flow techniques requires a judicious selection of flow conditions and reactant gas inlet design with due consideration to the flow tube dimensions.
Genotoxicity in Atlantic killifish ( Fundulus heteroclitus ) from a PAH-contaminated Superfund site on the Elizabeth River, Virginia

The Atlantic Wood Industries Superfund site (AWI) on the Elizabeth River in Portsmouth, VA is heavily contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from a wood treatment facility. Atlantic killifish, or mummichog (Fundulus heteroclitus), at this Superfund site are exposed to very high concentrations of several carcinogens. In this study, we measured PAH concentrations in both fish tissues and sediments. Concurrently, we assessed different aspects of genotoxicity in the killifish exposed in situ. Both sediment and tissue PAH levels were significantly higher in AWI samples, relative to a reference site, but the chemistry profile was different between sediments and tissues. Killifish at AWI exhibited higher levels of DNA damage compared to reference fish, as measured via the flow cytometric method (FCM), and the damage was consistent with sediment PAH concentrations. Covalent binding of benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) metabolites to DNA, as measured via LC–MS/MS adduct detection methods, were also elevated and could be partially responsible for the DNA damage. Using similar LC–MS/MS methods, we found no evidence that oxidative DNA adducts had a role in observed genotoxicity.
Alkyl-substituted polyaminohydroxamic acids: a novel class of targeted histone deacetylase inhibitors.

The reversible acetylation of histones is critical for regulation of eukaryotic gene expression. The histone deacetylase inhibitors trichostatin (TSA, 1), MS-275 (2) and suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA, 3) arrest growth in transformed cells and in human tumor xenografts. However, 1–3 suffer from lack of specificity among the various HDAC isoforms, prompting us to design and synthesize polyaminohydroxamic acid (PAHA) derivatives 6–21. We felt that PAHAs would be selectively directed to chromatin and associated histones by the positively charged polyamine side chain. At 1 μM, compounds 12, 15 and 20 inhibited HDAC by 74.86, 59.99 and 73.85%, respectively. Although 20 was a less potent HDAC inhibitor than 1, it was more potent than 2, more effective as an initiator of histone hyperacetylation, and significantly more effective than 2 at re-expressing p21Waf1 in ML-1 leukemia cells. On the basis of these results, PAHAs 6–21 represent an important new chemical class of HDAC inhibitors.
Familial premature coronary artery disease mortality and Obstructive Sleep apnea

Abstract Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is linked to both coronary artery disease (CAD) and sudden death, but any causal role remains unclear. A family history of premature CAD and related mortality is an independent risk factor for the development of CAD. We hypothesized that OSA is associated with a family history of premature mortality from ischemic heart disease. Methods: We prospectively studied 588 subjects who underwent polysomnography from May 2000 to June 2004. Demographics, comorbidities, family history of cardiovascular disease, and the ages and causes of death for 10 strata of family members were recorded for all subjects. We excluded those subjects with known causes of premature cardiac death, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and long-QT syndrome. OSA was defined by American Academy of Sleep Medicine criteria ( ie , apnea-hypopnea index ≥ 5). Premature CAD mortality was defined as death due to ischemic heart disease or sudden cardiac death before 55 years of age (men) or 65 years of age (women). Results: Polysomnography confirmed OSA in 316 subjects and excluded it in 202 subjects. The unadjusted odds ratio (OR) for OSA and a family history of premature CAD mortality was 2.11 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.10 to 4.31; p=0.031). After adjusting for each subject's sex, body mass index, and history of CAD, there was a significant and independent association between OSA and family history of premature CAD mortality (OR, 2.13; 95% CI, 1.04 to 4.66; p=0.046). Conclusions: Regardless of their own CAD status, people with OSA are more likely than those without OSA to have a family history of premature CAD mortality.
Effect size calculations and single subject designs

This study compared visual analyses with five alternative methods for assessing the magnitude of effect with single subject designs. Each method was successful in detecting intervention effect. Whe...
Adaptation of simple movements to changes in load

The author studied the adaptation of simple movements to changes in load. Subjects practised rapid wrist movements until they were consistent. Then they suddenly changed the inertial load, simulated by a computer-controlled motor. Adaptation to a much larger inertia occurred over the course of a few movements. The authors studied the mechanisms of adaptation using a model of the movement system and by analyzing electromyograms. Compensation for the larger inertia involves components from muscle mechanics, reflexes, and high-level neural compensation. Adaptation of the control pattern occurs during the next few trials. >
Transport slopes, sediment cover, and bedrock channel incision in the Henry Mountains, Utah

[1] Field data from channels in the Henry Mountains of Utah demonstrate that abundant coarse sediment can inhibit fluvial incision into bedrock by armoring channel beds (the cover effect). We compare several small channels that share tributary junctions and have incised into the same sedimentary bedrock unit (Navajo Sandstone) but contain differing amounts of coarse diorite clasts owing to the spatial distribution of localized sediment sources. Bedrock channels that contain abundant clasts (diorite-rich) have steeper longitudinal slopes than tributaries of these channels with smaller drainage areas and less sediment (diorite-poor). The diorite-poor tributaries have incised more deeply to lower average slopes and have more reach-scale slope variability, which may reflect bedrock properties, longitudinal sediment sorting, and incision at lower sediment supply. Diorite-rich channels have less bedrock exposed and smoother longitudinal profiles than diorite-poor channels. We find that (1) coarse sediment can mantle bedrock channel beds and reduce the efficiency of incision, validating the hypothesized cover effect in fluvial incision models; (2) the channel slope needed to transport the sediment load can be larger than that needed to erode bedrock, suggesting that the slope of incising bedrock channels can become adjusted to the sediment load; (3) when abundant sediment is available, transport capacity rather than thresholds of motion can be dominant in setting bedrock channel slope; and (4) cover effects can be important even when moderate amounts of bedrock are exposed in channel beds.
Changes in mitochondrial DNA alter expression of nuclear encoded genes associated with tumorigenesis

We previously reported the presence of a mtDNA mutation hotspot in UV-induced premalignant and malignant skin tumors in hairless mice. We have modeled this change (9821insA) in murine cybrid cells and demonstrated that this alteration in mtDNA associated with mtBALB haplotype can alter the biochemical characteristics of cybrids and subsequently can contribute to significant changes in their behavioral capabilities. This study shows that changes in mtDNA can produce differences in expression levels of specific nuclear-encoded genes, which are capable of triggering the phenotypes such as seen in malignant cells. From a potential list of differentially expressed genes discovered by microarray analysis, we selected MMP-9 and Col1a1 for further studies. Real-time PCR confirmed up-regulation of MMP-9 and down-regulation of Col1a1 in cybrids harboring the mtDNA associated with the skin tumors. These cybrids also showed significantly increased migration and invasion abilities compared to wild type. The non-specific MMP inhibitor, GM6001, was able to inhibit migratory and invasive abilities of the 9821insA cybrids confirming a critical role of MMPs in cellular motility. Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) is a key transcription factor for production of MMPs. An inhibitor of NF-κB activation, Bay 11-7082, was able to inhibit the expression of MMP-9 and ultimately decrease migration and invasion of mutant cybrids containing 9821insA. These studies confirm a role of NF-κB in the regulation of MMP-9 expression and through this regulation modulates the migratory and invasive capabilities of cybrids with mutant mtDNA. Enhanced migration and invasion abilities caused by up-regulated MMP-9 may contribute to the tumorigenic phenotypic characteristics of mutant cybrids.
Peripheral 8-OH-DPAT and scopolamine infused into the frontal cortex produce passive avoidance retention impairments in rats.

Abstract The present study determined whether peripheral injections of the 5HT1A agonist (8-OH-DPAT), scopolamine infusions into the frontal cortex, or a combination of both drug treatments would produce impairments in rats trained on passive avoidance. Using a 2×2 design, rats were infused with either bacteriostatic water or 30 μg/1 μl of scopolamine HCl into the frontal cortex 30 min before being trained on passive avoidance. This was followed by injections (ip) of either 0.1% ascorbic acid/bacteriostatic water or 30 μg/kg of 8-OH-DPAT 15 min later. All subjects were tested for retention 72 h later. At test, the initial latency to enter into the black shocked compartment and the total time spent in the white safe compartment (TTW) were recorded. Analysis of the latency data indicated that scopolamine and 8-OH-DPAT, when administered singly or in combination, produced amnesia for the task. Assessment of TTW scores, however, revealed that of the three drug-treated groups, only animals treated with 8-OH-DPAT alone tended to avoid the previously shocked black compartment and spend more time in the white safe compartment. These data indicate that either stimulating 5-HT1A or blocking frontal cortical muscarinic receptors at training impairs passive avoidance performance and that the deficit following the latter treatment is somewhat more extensive. Implications for the role frontal cortical muscarinic and 5HT1A receptors play in learning and memory are discussed.
Regulation of Peroxisome Proliferator-activated Receptor-γ-mediated Gene Expression A NEW MECHANISM OF ACTION FOR HIGH DENSITY LIPOPROTEIN

Abstract Cellular cholesterol content reflects a balance of lipid influx by lipoprotein receptors and endogenous synthesis and efflux to cholesterol acceptor particles. The beneficial effect of high density lipoprotein (HDL) in protecting against the development of cardiovascular disease is thought to be mediated predominately through its induction of cellular cholesterol efflux and “reverse cholesterol transport” from peripheral tissues to the liver. We tested the hypothesis that HDL could inhibit cellular lipid accumulation by modulating expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ)-responsive genes. To this end, we evaluated expression of two PPARγ-responsive genes, CD36, a receptor for oxidized low density lipoprotein, and aP2, a fatty acid-binding protein. HDL decreased expression of macrophage CD36 and aP2 in a dose-dependent manner. HDL also decreased aP2 expression in fibroblasts, reduced accumulation of lipid, and slowed differentiation of fibroblasts into adipocytes. HDL stimulated mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase activity, and inhibition of CD36 expression was blocked by co-incubation with a MAP kinase inhibitor. HDL increased expression of PPARγ mRNA and protein, induced translocation of PPARγ from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, and increased PPARγ phosphorylation. Our data demonstrate that despite induction and translocation of PPARγ in response to HDL, MAP kinase-mediated phosphorylation of PPARγ inhibited expression of PPARγ-responsive genes and suggest mechanisms by which HDL may inhibit cellular lipid accumulation.
Paul's Missionary Message

HE student of the New Testament usually raises more questions than he can answer, and at many points the silence of early Christian literature is baffling to the inquiring mind. Our question, What were the character and content of Paul's missionary preaching? can hope for no easy, ready-made answer, because in the first place Paul's own letters were addressed to converted men, individuals and church groups, and they do not pretend to approach the unconverted. In the second place, the speeches of Paul in Acts are not verbatim reports of what he said; they are at best re-creations by Luke of what he thought fitted the occasion, or of scant traditions or memories of what was
Nutrition Education and Weight Maintenance in Male High-School Swimmers

Abstract LEARNING OUTCOME: To examine the effectiveness of nutrition education on weight maintenance of male high-school swimmers during the 14-week swim season. This study examines the effect of nutrition education on weight maintenance of male high-school swimmers throughout the 14-week season. Twenty-nine swimmers from two area high schools participated in this study. The control group from the first high school had 10 swimmers on their team. The second high school, the nutrition education (NE) group, had 19 swimmers on their team. Participants in the control group were weighed at the beginning of the season, and again at the end of the season; no nutritional information was given to this group. The nutrition education (NE) group participated in a nutritional education presentation with a parent, where they also received printed nutritional information including: sport specific nutritional information, snack ideas, and sample training menus. The NE group participants were weighed weekly throughout the 14-week season. Both the control group and the NE group held practices in the same facility, and training sessions were similar in practice time and intensity. The results at the end of the season showed that the control group had a mean weight loss of 1.593 ± 2.58kg.The NE group results showed a mean gain of 0.579 ± 0.977kg.The statistical comparison (t-test) of the pre- and post-season weights of both groups showed significant differences (P
ANOMALOUS HEMADSORPTION BY CELL CULTURES.

SummaryChicken RBC's in the presence of calcium ion or after treatment with metaperiodate were absorbed by cultured primary and stable line monkey kidney cells and to a lesser extent by rabbit kidney cells. An extensive variety of other primary or stable cell lines of human or animal origin did not adsorb the cells. Treatment of responsive cells with crystallized trypsin or chymotrypsin inhibited the hemadsorption. Apparently the anomalous hemadsorption was unrelated to viral infection. The morphology of attachment varied with cell strain. BSC-1 cells which displayed few cytoplasmic projections adsorbed RBC's through extensive contact in contrast to adsorption by MK-2 cells by microvillae which characterized the surface of these cells.
Foresight activities in the U.S.A.: Time for a re-assessment?

Abstract This article reports on a brief, informal, reconnaissance study of ‘foresight’ activities now being conducted in the private sector and the Federal government. Such activities include: external environmental assessment, internal organizational assessment, direction setting, definition, and selection of base and contingent plans, implementation, performance evaluation and feedback. The study involved the reading and analysis of the existing literature and discussions with over 50 people in diverse private and public sector organizations. The objective was to determine what foresight activities are being done, how, by whom, with what results, and what are the implications and options.
Prostanoid receptor with a novel pharmacological profile in human erythroleukemia cells

Abstract The purpose of this study was to characterize the prostanoid receptors coupled to intracellular calcium in human erythroleukemia (HEL) cells, a cell line with platelet/megakaryocytic characteristics. Both prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) and iloprost increased cyclic AMP (cAMP) in HEL cells, but modulated [Ca2+], by different mechanisms. Iloprost (10−9 to 10−6 M) had no effect on basal [Ca2+]i, but greatly potentiated the increase in [Ca2+], produced by thrombin. This effect was mimicked by cholera toxin and other Gs-coupled receptors, and involved calcium influx since iloprost had no effect on [Ca2+]i in cells incubated in Ca2+ -free buffer. Furthermore, iloprost did not increase the generation of baseline or thrombin-induced inositol phosphates at these concentrations. In contrast, PGE1 (10−7 to 10−5 M), but not iloprost, increased basal [Ca2+]i through a pertussis toxin-sensitive mechanism that involved stimulation of inositol phosphate generation and mobilization of intracellular calcium. The order of potencies of other prostaglandins that increased [Ca2+]i was not consistent with known IP, EP, DP, FP, or TP receptors. 11-Deoxy-16,16-dimethyl PGE2 was the most potent of the analogs tested (EC50 = 28 nM). In summary, at least two prostaglandin receptors are functionally coupled to intracellular calcium in HEL cells: a putative IP receptor coupled to Gs proteins that increases cAMP and enhances calcium influx, and a novel prostanoid receptor that evokes calcium mobilization through stimulation of phospholipase C by a pertussis toxin-sensitive pathway.
Far-infrared magneto-optical study of two-dimensional electrons and holes in InAs/ Al x Ga 1 − x Sb quantum wells

We present results of a detailed far-infrared magneto-optical study on a series of high-mobility InAs/${\mathrm{Al}}_{\mathrm{x}}$ ${\mathrm{Ga}}_{1\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{x}}$ Sb (x=1.0, 0.8, 0.5, 0.4, 0.2, and 0.1) type-II single quantum wells. A wide range of phenomena arising from the unusual properties of two-dimensional (2D) electrons and holes and their Coulomb interaction in high magnetic fields has been revealed. Semiconducting samples (x\ensuremath{\geqslant}0.4), in which only 2D electrons exist in the InAs wells, exhibit cyclotron-resonance (CR) splittings due to large conduction-band nonparabolicity. Semimetallic samples (x=0.1 and 0.2), in which both 2D electrons (in InAs) and 2D holes (in ${\mathrm{Al}}_{\mathrm{x}}$ ${\mathrm{Ga}}_{1\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{x}}$ Sb) are present, show two additional lines (e and h-X lines) as well as electron and hole CR. The X-lines increase in intensity at the expense of CR with increasing electron-hole (e-h) pair density, decreasing temperature, or increasing magnetic field (at low field), suggesting that they are associated with e-h binding which is increased by the magnetic field. The electron CR shows strongly oscillatory linewidth, amplitude, and mass, part of which are interpreted in the light of the unusual 'antinonparabolic' band structure resulting from band overlap and coupling between conduction-band states in InAs and valence-band states in ${\mathrm{Al}}_{\mathrm{x}}$ ${\mathrm{Ga}}_{1\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{x}}$ Sb; part of these results are qualitatively consistent with the predictions of Altarelli and co-workers. The X lines are attributed to internal transitions of correlated electron e-h pairs (excitons) in high magnetic fields mediated by the excess electron density.
Evaluation and comparison of Tranquility and AutoSet T autotitrating CPAP machines.

The objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of two autotitrating continuous positive airway pressure (auto-CPAP), the Tranquility (Respironics, Inc., Murrysville, PA, U.S.A.) and the AutoSet T (ResMed Corp., Poway, CA, U.S.A). Patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) underwent attended auto-CPAP titration with either the Tranquility or AutoSet T machine. The auto-CPAP machine was given a performance score between 0 and 9. A score of 3 or lower indicated that autotitration had to be discontinued. Sixty patients were studied, 35 patients with the Tranquility machine and 25 patients with the AutoSet T machine. The mean age was 55.4 years, whereas the mean body mass index (BMI) was 32.7. The mean respiratory disturbance index (RDI) was 37.5, and the mean arousal index before use of auto-CPAP was 41.4. The two treatment groups were comparable in age, BMI, RDI, and arousal index. The mean performance scores for the Tranquility and AutoSet T machines were not statistically different. Autotitration with the Tranquility machine had to be discontinued in 10 of the 35 patients (29%), whereas with the AutoSet T machine, autotitration was discontinued in 11 of the 25 patients (44%). Despite advances in auto-CPAP machines, there remains a large minority of patients with OSAS in whom these machines do not accomplish treatment goals. At this time, these machines are not a substitute for in-laboratory CPAP titration polysomnograms.
A note on the gehan-wilcoxon statistic

The Wilcoxon statistic is often introduced from different points of view, and has been considered mainly as a linear rank statistic or as a U-statistic. For survival data analysis, it has also been considered as a weighted Mantel-Haenszel statistic. As a result, different approaches to censoring have led to different versions of generalized Wilcoxon statistics. The Gehan-Wilcoxon statistic has been widely used in practice and is available in many statistical software packages, even though it has been criticized as inappropriate for censored data and as inferior to Peto-Peto's generalization of the Wilcoxon statistic. A new and intuitive interpretation of Gehan’s and Peto-Peto's generalized Wilcoxon statistic is presented here to illustrate their fundamental differences, and to show the possible hidden pitfalls of Gehan's generalization in the application of clinical trial data monitoring.
Wannier excitons in solid xenon

Abstract Three absorption peaks observed in solid xenon were found to accurately fit a hydrogen-like energy level formula with a convergence limit (band gap) of 9.33 eV and n = 2, 3, 4.
The tensile strength of black bear (Ursus americanus) cortical bone is not compromised with aging despite annual periods of hibernation.

Abstract Black bears (Ursus americanus) may not develop disuse osteoporosis during long periods of disuse (i.e. hibernation) because they may be able to maintain bone formation. Previously, we found that cortical bone bending strength was not compromised with age in black bears tibias, despite annual periods of disuse. Here we showed that cortical bone tensile strength (166–198 MPa) also does not decrease with age (2–14 years) in black bear tibias. There were also no significant age-related changes in cortical bone porosity in black bear tibias. It is likely that the ability of black bears to maintain bone formation during hibernation keeps bone porosity low (2.3–8.6%) with aging, notwithstanding annual periods of disuse. This low porosity likely preserves ultimate stress with aging. Female bears give birth and nurse during hibernation; however, we found no significant differences between male and female tensile material properties, mineral content, or porosity. Our findings support the idea that black bears, which hibernate 5–7 months annually, have evolved biological mechanisms to mitigate the adverse effects of disuse on bone porosity and strength.
The Unfinished Detective: The Work of P. D. James

(1987). The Unfinished Detective: The Work of P. D. James. Critique: Studies in Contemporary Fiction: Vol. 28, No. 4, pp. 211-223.
Keeping an Eye on Biology

Genomic data sets offer opportunities for students to generate original findings without expensive laboratory equipment, extending the benefits of undergraduate research to the classroom ( 1 – 4 ). Yet, working with data sets online can frustrate biology students who may miss connections to fascinating biological questions. Integrating organismal and molecular biology with bioinformatics can enhance student learning. We have developed a program in genomics, adapted for a plant ( Chamaecrista fasciculata ) and an animal ( Aiptasia pallida ), designed to support student learning with a Web-based guide ( ) (see the first chart).
Pro-inflammatory cytokines: Emerging players regulating HSC function in normal and diseased hematopoiesis

Hematopoiesis is the hierarchical process in which all lineages of blood cells are produced by self-renewing hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in the bone marrow (BM). While the regulatory factors that maintain proper HSC function and lineage output under normal conditions are well understood, significantly less is known about how HSC fate is regulated in response to inflammation or disease. As many blood disorders are associated with overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, significant interest has emerged in understanding the impact of these factors on HSC function. In this review we highlight key advances demonstrating the impact of pro-inflammatory cytokines on the biology of HSCs and the BM niche, and address ongoing questions regarding their role in normal and pathogenic hematopoiesis.
Accountability and empathy effects on medical students' clinical judgments in a disability determination context for low back pain.

Abstract Accountability has been shown to affect clinical judgments among health care providers in several ways. It may increase a provider's motivation for accuracy, leading to more deliberative judgments, or it may enhance biases that evaluators consistently demonstrate with patients with chronic pain. In this study, medical students read a vignette about a hypothetical patient referred for evaluation of severe low back pain by the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation. Accountability to the patient was either weak (consultative 1-time evaluation) or strong (ongoing primary care provision); societal accountability was either weak (evaluation information as secondary source for disability determination) or strong (evaluation information primary to disability determination). Participants then made judgments regarding validity of the patient's presentation, influence of psychosocial factors on the presentation, and patient's level of pain, distress, and disability, and completed an empathy measure. Results showed that empathy had strong associations with symptom validity and severity judgments. With empathy as a covariate, 3 crossover interactions emerged. Judgments of symptom validity were lower when the 2 forms of accountability were inconsistent (ie, one weak and the other strong) than when they were consistent (ie, both weak or both strong). Likewise, judgments of psychosocial factors and pain/distress/disability were higher under consistent accountability conditions than when accountability conditions were inconsistent. This pattern may imply conflict avoidance or self-protection as a motivation for judgments under inconsistent accountability. This study demonstrated that role demands can affect symptom judgments in complex ways, and that empathy may play both direct and moderating roles. Because physicians are the primary gatekeepers regarding disability determination in both consultative and treating roles, accountability may have significant mediating effects on such determinations. Perspective This study demonstrated that medical student judgments of pain-related symptoms were strongly associated with their levels of empathic concern. Student judgments of symptom validity and psychosocial influences on patient adjustment were differentially affected by their level of accountability to the patient and society in a disability determination process.
Comparison of heart rate and blood pressure response to amyl nitrite, isoproterenol, and standing before and during acute betaadrenergic blockade with intravenous propranolol

Heart rate responses to three different procedures (amyl nitrite inhalation, standing up, and isoproterenol infusion), were studied before and during acute adrenergic beta blockade with intravenous propranolol in three normal and six hypertensive subjects. Propranolol decreased, but did not completely abolish, the heart rate increase produced by amyl nitrite and standing, probably because of vagal participation (withdrawal) in heart rate increase produced by baroreceptor hypotension (amyl nitrite) and on assuming the upright posture. Heart rate responses to amyl nitrite varied greatly from patient to patient (from 27 to 97%), but the drug proved to be the most potent stimulus for heart rate increase as a result of its marked hypotensive effect. However, this vasodilator-induced acute hypotension was well tolerated, and without deleterious hemodynamic consequences, despite the presence of beta blockade. Different degrees of correlation in heart rate increase were observed with the three procedures, reflecting probably the varying sympathetic-parasympathetic participation in reflex heart rate control. It is concluded that from the clinical stand point, neither amyl nitrite administration nor standing up can be used as a test to assess acurately the degree of beta blockade, because both procedures activate vagal withdrawal which increases heart rate regardless of the degree of beta blockade.
A value based policy approach: The case of an Urban salt marsh restoration

Personal activity decisions result from the process where values are filtered through culture, perception, and personal capacity to act. Therefore, effective policy requires an understanding of values and perceptions. The author surveyed the values and perceptions of residents near an urban riverine park to determine how their values would be served by a proposed salt marsh restoration in the park. Respondents’ perceptions were visually oriented. The greatest concern was pollution, and respondents mostly indicated visual pollutants, such as trash. Respondents also indicated that the river and its wildlife have been negatively impacted by human intervention, and that the area was somewhat dangerous due to crime. Highest value was placed on aesthetics, the quality of habitat for wildlife, and the ability to relax and see wildlife. Respondents highly valued passive activities, including walking, relaxing, and enjoying views. They tended to place lower values on active uses, including fishing and boating. Imp...