cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
C-terminal Domain of Chromogranin B Regulates Intracellular Calcium Signaling

The versatility of intracellular calcium as a second messenger is seen in its ability to mediate opposing events such as neuronal cell growth and apoptosis. A leading hypothesis used to explain how calcium regulates such divergent signaling pathways is that molecules responsible for maintaining calcium homeostasis have multiple roles. For example, chromogranin B (CGB), a calcium binding protein found in secretory granules and in the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum, buffers calcium and also binds to and amplifies the activity of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (InsP3R). Previous studies have identified two conserved domains of CGB, an N-terminal domain (N-CGB) and a C-terminal domain (C-CGB). N-CGB binds to the third intraluminal loop of the InsP3R and inhibits binding of full-length CGB. This displacement of CGB decreases InsP3R-dependent calcium release and alters normal signaling patterns. In the present study, we further characterized the role of N-CGB and identified roles for C-CGB. The effect of N-CGB on calcium release depended upon endogenous levels of cellular CGB, whereas the regulatory effect of C-CGB was apparent regardless of endogenous levels of CGB. When either full-length CGB or C-CGB was expressed in cells, calcium transients were increased. Additionally, the calcium signal initiation site was altered upon C-CGB expression in neuronally differentiated PC12 and SHSY5Y cells. These results show that CGB has numerous regulatory roles and that CGB is a critical component in modulating InsP3R-dependent calcium signaling.
Guide to development of practice guidelines.

A commonly accepted definition of a clinical practice guideline is "a systematically developed statement to assist practitioner and patient decisions about appropriate health care for specific clinical circumstances" [1]. Guidelines are written to improve the quality of care, to improve the appropriateness of care, to improve cost-effectiveness, and to serve as educational tools [2, 3]. The goal is not to create standards of care; however, other organizations may choose to adopt these guidelines or components thereof for such purposes. Practice guidelines, however, are never a substitute for clinical judgment. Clinical discretion is of the utmost importance in the application of a guideline to individual patients, because no guideline can ever be specific enough to be applied in all situations. To fulfill the objectives of guidelines adequately, standards must be established for the quality of guidelines so that their scientific validity and clarity of communication may be ensured (table 1) [4]. The challenge to guideline writers, therefore, is to adhere to these standards in the guideline development process while also making the document user-friendly. Because the majority of the guidelines of the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) will be published in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases, it is essential that the turnaround time from concept to final draft be as short as possible, preferably <12 months. The IDSA Practice Guidelines Committee recommends
Minimization of Transition Metal Interferences with Hydride Generation Techniques

A new hydride generator has been characterized for use with the acid−NaBH4 hydride generation systems based on the insertion of a capillary tube into the sample introduction channel of a standard Meinhard nebulizer. The acidic sample and the tetrahydroborate solution are mixed at a merge point 1.5 cm from the end of the nebulizer orifice. Nebulization of the reaction solutions into a 0.7 mL tubular “spray chamber” follows a very short mixing time (less than 0.012 s) of the reagents. This approach permits 10 000 μg/mL Ni2+ or Cr3+ to be present in the sample solution without producing any interferences. Additionally, in the presence of Fe3+ added as a “releasing agent”, 5000 μg/mL Co2+ or 160 μg/mL Cu2+ can also be tolerated without interference. An 80 ± 2% generation efficiency is attained for the test element selenium. A detection limit of 6 μg/L (3σb) is achieved with ICP-AES detection. Precision of replicate measurements at the 12 μg/L level varies from 5 to 12% relative standard deviation.
Gastric ulcer healing after laser treatment in dogs.

Endoscopic laser photocoagulation of ulcers is increasingly used to produce hemostasis in patients who are actively bleeding or in patients with stigmata of recent hemorrhage. Little information is available describing ulcer healing rates after laser treatments. The aim of this study was to compare the healing rates of gastric ulcers treated with laser energy (Nd:YAG) with untreated ulcers in dogs. Two standard gastric ulcers (12–14 mm diameter) were created in each dog stomach using an ulcer maker (Quinton) under endoscopic guidance and one was randomly selected for laser treatment (L), while the other served as control (C). Ten laser spots were applied circumferentially around the ulcer crater with a mean energy of 595 J per ulcer. Ten dogs were studied; four of which were sacrificed after one week and six after two weeks. Healing of treated ulcers was compared with that of control ulcers and expressed as a percentage of the initial ulcer surface. Histologic injury and reepithelialization were scored by two pathologists unaware of the treatment. Laser-treated ulcers healed significantly slower than untreated ulcers at one week (53% L vs 94% C), P<0.05 and histologic injury was greater in ulcers treated with laser photocoagulation. At two weeks, only 82% of the lasertreated ulcer surface was healed in comparison with 94% (P<0.05) healing in untreated ulcers, although the mean histologic injury score was not different at two weeks. Reepithelialization was decreased both at one week (11% L vs 71% C), P<0.01) and at two weeks (75% L vs 100% C, P<0.01). This study suggests that ulcer healing may be delayed following endoscopic laser photocoagulation. Further studies are indicated in patients to ascertain whether YAG laser treatment or other coagulation methods delay healing or make ulcers bigger compared with standard medical treatment without coagulation.
Endoscopic saphenous vein harvest in infrainguinal bypass surgery

Background: Autologous greater saphenous vein is considered to be the optimal material for peripheral arterial reconstruction and coronary artery revascularization. We describe a new endoscopic technique of saphenous vein harvest in infrainguinal arterial bypass surgery. Methods: A retrospective analysis of 64 infrainguinal bypass procedures was performed comparing the standard open technique of saphenous vein harvesting with a new less invasive endoscopic technique. Results: There were no differences in age, gender, indications for surgery, or proximal or distal anastomosis between the two groups. There were also no significant differences in early wound complications, early patency, and transfusion requirements. In the endoscopic group, length of operation was longer (189 versus 158 minutes; P <0.005), length of stay was shorter (5.2 versus 8.1 days; P <0.05), and postoperative day of discharge was also less (3.3 versus 5.5 days; P <0.01). Conclusions: Our findings indicate that endoscopic saphenectomy is technically feasible, leads to earlier discharge from the hospital, and leads to increased operative time. Most importantly, the procedure can be performed safely without subjecting the patient to increased risk.
Wage outcomes following the divestiture of AT&T

Abstract Information from March and May Current Population Surveys and from Bell System labor contracts tor the years 1977–1988 is used to investigate wages of telecommunication workers before and after divestiture. The findings show that, after divestiture, wage growth slowed at AT&T, wage negotiation outcomes were increasingly responsive to regional economic conditions and, unlike the wage situation before divestiture, union wage premiums within telecommunications were significant. These wage outcomes support the opinion that competition is becoming an increasingly important wage determination factor in the less-unionized, unregulated industry section and, despite the influence of regional economic conditions, unionized workers employed in the regulated part of the telecommunications industry continue to benefit financially from negotiating with state-regulated monopolies.
Pigmented villonodular synovitis in a child

The authors present a case of pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) in an adolescent with monarticular involvement of the ankle and without congenital anomalies or sibling involvement. Its rarity in the ankle and in childhood is discussed; a review of the clinical, radiological, and pathological features of PVNS is presented.
Spatial distribution and the animal landscape.

Suggested Citation for this Article:Potter P. Spatial distribution and the animal landscape [about the cover]. Emerg Infect Dis [serial on the Internet]. 2006 Dec [date cited]. http://dx.doi.org/10.3201/eid1212.AC1212
Another look at Greek geometrical analysis

Greek geometrical analysis has attracted the interest and attention of mathematicians and historians of mathematics ever since the appearance of Greek higher mathematics in Europe during the Renaissance. To men like VI~TE and FERMAT, it held the promise of a powerful tool for mathematical research. ~ To later writers, working after the development of algebraic analysis and the calculus, it offered aid in understanding the often hazy foundations of their new mode of mathematical thinking, a By the late nineteenth century, however, the subject had lost much of its contemporary value and had become instead the object of attempts at historical understanding and evaluation. At this time HANKEL established the guidelines for what has become the standard account as found also in ZEOTHEN, CANTOR, and HEATH. 4 CORNFORD'S attempt in t930 to revise this account drew a quick and convincing rebuttal from ROBINSOI~.~ Recently, GULLEY, MOGLER, and CHERNISS have treated aspects of the problem," but there has been no general reexamination.
Dispersion, efficacy, and persistence of dichlorvos aerosol against two flour beetle life stages in a mill

Abstract The dispersion, efficacy, and persistence of dichlorvos applied as an aerosol inside the Kansas State University pilot flour mill was evaluated based on responses of adults of the confused flour beetle, Tribolium confusum , and pupae of the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum , during and after application. Dichlorvos was applied at the highest labeled rate of 0.35 g/m 3 . Concrete arenas with or without different life stages of the two species were placed in open, obstructed, and concealed mill locations during aerosol application. Knockdown and mortality of T. confusum adults was 99–100% and mortality of T. castaneum pupae was 97–100% in open and obstructed mill locations, indicating uniform dispersion of dichlorvos. In concealed locations, knockdown and mortality of T. confusum adults and mortality of T. castaneum pupae was 85–94%, indicating effective dispersion of dichlorvos into pieces of equipment. Holding insects directly exposed to dichlorvos for an additional 24 h in the same arenas did not increase knockdown or mortality. Exposure to dichlorvos residues aged for an additional 24 h on concrete resulted in moderate to poor knockdown and/or mortality of Tribolium spp. suggesting lack of residual activity. Results show dichlorvos will give immediate kill of exposed insects but will not offer effective residual control.
Synthesis of platinum multipods: an induced anisotropic growth

This paper reports a highly effective synthesis of platinum multipods from platinum 2,4-pentanedionate in organic solvents. A trace amount of silver acetylacetonate is used to trigger the nucleation and the anisotropic growth of Pt nanocrystals. The morphologies of Pt multipods made include I- and V-shaped bipods, various types of tripods, and planar and three-dimensional (3D) tetrapods. The 3D Pt tetrapods can be well-defined, resembling those observed for II-VI semiconducting materials, such as CdS and CdSe. Control of morphology and the multipod-to-sphere transitions under various conditions have been systematically studied. A mode of formation based on the induced kinetically controlled growth has been discussed.
Magnetic resonance imaging as a novel method of characterization of cutaneous photoaging in a murine model

Environmental ultraviolet (UV) exposure exacts a significant toll annually in terms of overall morbidity and undesirable esthetic effects of skin aging. In order to establish the molecular and pathologic basis of this process, the murine model of ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced aging has long been used with reproducibility and success. Although morphometric and histological endpoints have been useful tools to describe this model historically, they fail to allow for the real time monitoring of the aging process, and do not fully account for effects of the in vivo environment on cutaneous strata with aging. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the ability of high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to characterize the murine model of photoaging throughout the aging process. Six-week-old male nu/nu mice were exposed to narrow-band UVB at 30 min intervals five times weekly for 10 weeks, resulting in a characteristic photoaged morphometric result. MRI scans were performed using a 7 tesla (7 T) small animal imaging platform at pre-exposure baseline at 4 and 10 weeks. Histological analysis of full-thickness biopsies taken in 10 week photoaged mice was correlated with MRI findings, and was compared against control animals receiving no ultraviolet radiation. MRI studies revealed a statistically significant prominent evolution of epidermal hyperplasia at 4 weeks versus baseline and at 10 weeks compared to 4 week values (0.172 ± 0.017 mm versus undetectable, P ≤ 0.05; 0.258 ± 0.007 versus 0.172 ± 0.017 mm, P ≤ 0.05, respectively). A parallel trend of dermal hyperplasia which approached statistical significance was likewise noted at 10 weeks compared to baseline values (0.420 ± 0.073 versus 0.295 ± 0.078 mm, P = 0.06). Histology confirmed the progressive epidermal hyperplastic change characterized by MRI findings. This study validates the novel use of high-resolution MRI for study of the murine photoaging model and establishes its potential to describe progressive cutaneous pathology in such an experimental setting.
“We build a better beagle”: Fantastic creatures in lab animal ads

The lab animal's significance and meaning are at the heart of the experimental method in modern biomedical research. Sociologists, however, have been remiss in studying how these animals are socially constructed within the scientific community as well as by industries, such as animal breeders, that support such research. Inspection of the advertisements used by breeding companies reveals three images of lab animals—the classy chemical, the consumer good, and the team player. The possible appeal of such images to readers of these ads is explored.
Malignancies and the skin: looking forward and looking back.

For the dermatologist, for whom the skin is a multilayered microcosm of the organism with its hematologic, immunologic, and neurologic connections to the deeper tissues within, malignancy is an important but ultimately a secondary concern. Malignant transformation of a cell, whether it be of the skin itself or of a deeper tissue having an associated cutaneous manifestation, is but one of a multitude of pathologic routes by which a defective cell can present as a dermatologic lesion. In a similar way, the realm of oncology is as wide and as deep as the entire body from surface to core. Skin cancers, epidemiologically important and pathologically varied though they may be, are ultimately a mere subset of the host of malignancies to which oncologists must direct their attention. Though skin cancers rank numerically as the most important set of malignancies in the United States, their relative rank in the hierarchy of concern of the oncologist is actually rather low—primarily because treatment is more often carried out in the dermatologist’s office than in the infusion unit or on the radiotherapy table. But if the dermatologist and the oncologist appear to hold each other’s disciplines at a respectful arm’s length, their two specialties are actually much more closely related at a far profounder level than either one is inclined to admit. For when it comes to malignancies manifesting in the skin, both the dermatologist and the oncologist are confronted with the same problem: how to eliminate a discrete pathologic lesion without inflicting undue damage on surrounding normal tissue. The ideal treatment under these circumstances would be able to eliminate the lesion and its causes not only entirely but also specifically, to keep collateral damage to surrounding normal tissue to an absolute minimum. Because both dermatologic and oncologic lesions are ultimately caused by a dysregulation of normal cellular function and proliferation, the ideal therapy would be able to address the dysregulation of aberrant cells without disrupting the normal homeostasis of neighboring tissues. The ideal treatment, in short, would be the “magic bullet” posited by Paul Ehrlich a century ago. In contemporary terms, the magic bullet would be selective apoptosis of the targeted cells with sparing of the neighboring normal ones.
Parathyroid hormone increases the expression of receptors for epidermal growth factor in UMR 106-01 cells.

PTH administration in vivo increases osteoblast number and activity, resulting in increased bone formation, and also increases osteoclast-mediated bone resorption. Studies in vitro, however, have shown that the actions of PTH on osteoblast-like cells are inhibitory and catabolic, as shown by decreases in growth rate and collagen synthesis and increases in collagenase production. The present studies were designed to investigate possible mechanisms for these observations by examining the effects of PTH on the response of osteoblast-like cells to the osteoblast growth factor, epidermal growth factor (EGF). Confluent cultures of UMR 106-01 cells were treated with rat PTH-(1-34) for periods up to 72 h, and EGF receptors were measured with [125I]EGF. PTH, in a dose- and time-dependent manner, increased the number of EGF receptors 2-fold. The half-maximal effect of PTH occurred at a concentration of 1 nM, the same PTH concentration that resulted in half-maximal increases in cAMP generation. The increase in EGF b...
Graphical Analysis of Accelerated Life Test Data with the Inverse Power Law Model

In this paper, graphical methods are presented for analyzing accelerated life test data with the inverse power law model, when all test units are run to failure. The inverse power law model is described, and graphical methods for estimating its parameters from such complete data are given. These methods are illustrated with accelerated test data on time to breakdown of an insulating fluid. While the methods are presented with the inverse power law model, they can be used for analyzing many other accelerated life test situations. These methods are presented so that they can be used by individuals with a limited statistical background.
Porphyrins Fused with Unactivated Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons

A systematic study of the preparation of porphyrins with extended conjugation by meso,β-fusion with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) is reported. The meso-positions of 5,15-unsubstituted porphyrins were readily functionalized with PAHs. Ring fusion using standard Scholl reaction conditions (FeCl3, dichloromethane) occurs for perylene-substituted porphyrins to give a porphyrin β,meso annulated with perylene rings (0.7:1 ratio of syn and anti isomers). The naphthalene, pyrene, and coronene derivatives do not react under Scholl conditions but are fused using thermal cyclodehydrogenation at high temperatures, giving mixtures of syn and anti isomers of the meso,β-fused porphyrins. For pyrenyl-substituted porphyrins, a thermal method gives synthetically acceptable yields (>30%). Absorption spectra of the fused porphyrins undergo a progressive bathochromic shift in a series of naphthyl (λmax = 730 nm), coronenyl (λmax = 780 nm), pyrenyl (λmax = 815 nm), and perylenyl (λmax = 900 nm) annulated porphyrins. ...
The use of medications for inflammatory bowel disease during pregnancy and nursing

Inflammatory bowel disease includes two primary disorders, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. These diseases mainly affect young adults, with a peak occurrence between 15 and 25 years of age. The causes of these diseases are largely unknown, with current treatments targeted against the heightened inflammatory response witnessed in the intestinal mucosa of both conditions. With the peak age ranges for pregnancy and inflammatory bowel disease overlapping, it is important to weigh the benefits of treating a mother during pregnancy against the potential risks to the fetus and the course of the pregnancy. This review examines the current safety data on medications used in women with inflammatory bowel disease during pregnancy.
INFLUENCE OF HYPOXIA ON RAT LUNG FIBROBLAST PROLIFERATION VARIES WITH GESTATIONAL AND POSTNATAL AGE 302

In the immature lung, fibroblast proliferation occurs during the transition from the saccular to the alveolar stage of lung development. However, excessive proliferation could result in decreased compliance and impaired gas exchange. Oxygen tension in perfusing blood is thought to play an important role in the pathogenesis of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). We evaluated the effect of exposure to 2.5% oxygen (hypoxia) in vitro on proliferation of lung fibroblasts obtained from fetal rats at 18 and 21 days gestation and postnatal rat pups aged 2, 5, 9, 13 and 23 days. Lung fibroblasts were isolated and cultured in 5% CO2 and either normoxia(18.2% oxygen) or hypoxia (2.5% oxygen). The hypoxic environment was maintained in a modular incubator chamber flushed with 2.5% O2 + 5% CO2. First passage fibroblasts were plated at 2 × 105 / T-75 cm2 flasks, incubated in normoxia or hypoxia until they reached 80% confluence, and then serum starved for 48 hours. Media containing 10% serum was then added and the time designated as 0 hr. Cells were removed from normoxic and hypoxic flasks at 0, 13, 15, 17, 19 and 21 hours by trypsinisation, washed, fixed in ethanol and stained with RNase/Propidium iodide for analysis of DNA content by flow cytometry. When we compared the percentage of cells in S-phase at 15 hrs. after release from serum starvation, we observed a 2.1-fold (E-18), 1.4-fold (E-21), 2.8-fold (2 day) and a 1.1-fold (5 day) increase in the number of cells grown under hypoxic vs normoxic conditions. Hypoxia did not accelerate entry into the cell cycle of fibroblasts obtained from older rat pups (9, 13, 23 days). Further, hemacytometer counts of fibroblasts cultured in hypoxia for 48 hrs. showed an increase in number, relative to normoxic controls, of 130% (4 day), 127% (9 day) and 118% (13 day). These results indicate that lung fibroblasts from late fetal and early neonatal rats survive prolonged exposure to hypoxia (2.5% O2 and that fibroblasts from fetal and 2 day rats enter S-phase more rapidly when grown under hypoxic vs normoxic conditions. These results suggest that a fibroproliferative response to hypoxia may contribute to the pathogenesis of BPD.Supported by funds from Wyeth Neonatology Grant and NIH Grant
Two Concepts of Intrinsic Value

Recent literature on intrinsic value contains a number of disputes about the nature of the concept. On the one hand, there are those who think states of affairs, such as states of pleasure or desire satisfaction, are the bearers of intrinsic value (“Mooreans”); on the other hand, there are those who think concrete objects, like people, are intrinsically valuable (“Kantians”). The contention of this paper is that there is not a single concept of intrinsic value about which Mooreans and Kantians have disagreed, but rather two distinct concepts. I state a number of principles about intrinsic value that have typically (though not universally) been held by Mooreans, all of which are typically denied by Kantians. I show that there are distinct theoretical roles for a concept of intrinsic value to play in a moral framework. When we notice these distinct theoretical roles, we should realize that there is room for two distinct concepts of intrinsic value within a single moral framework: one that accords with some or all of the Moorean principles, and one that does not.
First-order algorithm with $${\mathcal{O}({\rm ln}(1{/}\epsilon))}$$ convergence for $${\epsilon}$$ -equilibrium in two-person zero-sum games

We propose an iterated version of Nesterov’s first-order smoothing method for the two-person zero-sum game equilibrium problem $$\min_{x \in Q_1}\max_{y \in Q_2} {x}^{\rm T}{Ay} = \max_{y \in Q_2} \min_{x \in Q_1} {x}^{\rm T}{Ay}.$$ This formulation applies to matrix games as well as sequential games. Our new algorithmic scheme computes an $${\epsilon}$$ -equilibrium to this min-max problem in $${\mathcal {O}\left(\frac{\|A\|}{\delta(A)} \, {\rm ln}(1{/}\epsilon)\right)}$$ first-order iterations, where δ(A) is a certain condition measure of the matrix A. This improves upon the previous first-order methods which required $${\mathcal {O}(1{/}\epsilon)}$$ iterations, and it matches the iteration complexity bound of interior-point methods in terms of the algorithm’s dependence on $${\epsilon}$$. Unlike interior-point methods that are inapplicable to large games due to their memory requirements, our algorithm retains the small memory requirements of prior first-order methods. Our scheme supplements Nesterov’s method with an outer loop that lowers the target $${\epsilon}$$ between iterations (this target affects the amount of smoothing in the inner loop). Computational experiments both in matrix games and sequential games show that a significant speed improvement is obtained in practice as well, and the relative speed improvement increases with the desired accuracy (as suggested by the complexity bounds).
Near-infrared optical tomography with ultrasound localization for monitoring angiogenic tumor responses to primary systemic therapy

Angiogenesis in advanced breast cancers is highly distorted and heterogeneous. Non-invasive imaging that can monitor angiogenesis may be invaluable for assessing tumor response to treatment. By combining ultrasound and near infrared optical imaging, a reliable new technique has emerged for predicting tumor angiogenesis within the breast.
Prenatal ethanol effects on reward efficacy for adult mice are gestation stage specific.

We previously reported that adult mice exposed to ethanol throughout gestation (G5-17) responded slower than controls on reinforcement schedules which required large numbers of responses per unit of food, i.e., high fixed ratio (FR) schedules. The primary finding of the present study was that ethanol exposure during the last 5 days of gestation (G12-17) is sufficient to produce this effect whereas a similar exposure early in gestation (G5-10) is not. Both male and female mice exposed to ethanol late in gestation responded slower than either lab chow or pair-fed controls, and the effect was similar to that of mice exposed to ethanol throughout gestation (G5-17) in our earlier study. Thus, developmental events occurring late in gestation are important for the reduced reinforcing efficacy of food for prenatal-ethanol-exposed mice. In addition, the present experiment established the comparability of the sucrose and lab chow controls on this task. The results of the present study and our previous report are compatible with the hypothesis that the reduced responding on high FR schedules exhibited by prenatal-ethanol-exposed mice reflects a reduction in the efficacy of food reward. It is possible that the reduction in reward efficacy is due to altered development of neuronal systems functionally related to reward which develop late in gestation.
Sensitive and rapid analysis of T1-ribonuclease-resistant oligonucleotides in two-dimensional fingerprinting gels of poliovirus type I genomic RNA

Abstract A two-dimensional fingerprinting gel system that provides sensitive analyses with high resolution of T1-resistant oligonucleotides of large RNA molecules is described. Unique oligonucleotides less than 30 bases in length are recovered quantitatively while longer oligonucleotides are recovered in very large (∼90%) yields by active transfer of the fingerprint to DEAE paper. After elution of the oligonucleotides from DEAE paper, secondary analysis is performed by digestion of oligonucleotides with pancreatic RNase and separation of the products by high-voltage electrophoresis on polyethyleneimine cellulose. The complete analysis of up to 40 oligonucleotides can be accomplished within 4 days.
Central dopamine hyperactivity in rats mimics abnormal acoustic startle response in schizophrenics

Schizophrenic patients show loss of the normal inhibition of the acoustic startle response (ASR) when the startle stimulus is preceded by a weak prepulse stimulus. In rats experimentally induced to have locally supersensitive dopamine receptors within forebrain dopamine terminal regions, we find a similar deficit in "prepulse inhibition" of the ASR. Our results suggest that there are intriguing parallels between the aberrant sensory gating of the ASR demonstrated by schizophrenics and that demonstrated by rats during stimulation of supersensitive brain dopamine receptors. Thus, prepulse inhibition of the ASR provides a useful paradigm for investigating the bridge between mesolimbic dopamine overactivity and the specific time-dependent information processing-sensory gating disturbances that have been identified in schizophrenic patients.
Contamination of humic acid by silica gel and sodium bicarbonate

The extent of contamination of soil humic fractions by silica gel, sodium bicarbonate and sodium carbonate was investigated by infrared spectroscopy. Humic fractions were extracted with 0.1 N NaOH from a surface sample of a Davidson soil (Rhodic Paleudult, Reddish-brown Lateritic soil). After careful purification, the humic preparations were characterized by scanning with the Beckman IR-18A spectrophotometer using the micro KBr pellet technique. The spectra of the various humic fractions corresponded to the respective spectra reported in the literature. No indications were obtained for the presence of silica gel, sodium bicarbonate or sodium carbonate. Strong absorption at 1000 cm-1, as exhibited by non-purified humic acid, could be caused by Si-O vibrations. However, this band disappeared after washing humic acid with HCl-HF.
Haemodynamic and renal sympathetic responses to V1b vasopressin receptor activation within the paraventricular nucleus

New Findings What is the central question of this study? Does antagonism of V1b receptors prevent the haemodynamic and renal sympathetic nerve responses that occur with application of exogenous vasopressin into the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of conscious, chronically instrumented rats? What is the main finding and its importance? Microinjection of vasopressin into the PVN increased mean arterial pressure, heart rate and renal sympathetic nerve activity, all of which were inhibited by pre-injection of the PVN with the V1b antagonist, nelivaptan. The administered vasopressin did not enter the peripheral circulation or increase plasma vasopressin. Ganglionic blockade prevented each of the responses, consistent with mediation by enhanced sympathetic output rather than an increase in circulating vasopressin. Vasopressin (VP) participates in regulation of haemodynamics and volume. Besides more classical actions as a circulating hormone, VP may act via release from axons and dendrites within the CNS. The paraventricular nucleus (PVN) possesses vasopressinergic neurons and a dense complement of VP receptors, including the V1b receptor, which has been implicated in several types of stress responses. We tested the hypothesis that antagonism of V1b receptors will prevent VP-induced increases in mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR) and renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA). Studies were performed in conscious male Sprague–Dawley rats chronically instrumented with vascular catheters, renal nerve electrodes and a cannula stereotaxically directed into the PVN. Unilateral microinjection of VP into the PVN significantly increased MAP, HR and RSNA, peaking at 10 min. Pre-injection of the PVN with the selective V1b receptor antagonist, nelivaptan, did not alter baseline values but blocked the responses to VP. Ganglionic blockade with chlorisondamine decreased MAP and HR and abolished their increase in response to subsequent PVN application of VP. Injection of VP into the PVN did not alter plasma VP levels. Paraventricular nucleus injection with radiolabelled VP resulted in negligible radiolabelled VP in peripheral blood. These findings support the concept that, in basal conditions, PVN V1b receptor activation (rather than VP release into the periphery) may be implicated in the increases in MAP, HR and RSNA due to increased sympathetic outflow. While the role of V1a and oxytocin receptors cannot be excluded, these data suggest that further studies of the role of V1b receptor activation by endogenous VP during stress to effect neuroexcitation are warranted.
Nanoscale tensile, shear, and failure properties of layered silicates as a function of cation density and stress

Mechanical properties of layered silicates on the nanometer scale have been associated with large uncertainty. We attempt to clarify the linear elastic properties including tensile moduli, shear mo...
Slowing of axonal regeneration is correlated with increased axonal viscosity during aging

As we age, the speed of axonal regeneration declines. At the biophysical level, why this occurs is not well understood. To investigate we first measured the rate of axonal elongation of sensory neurons cultured from neonatal and adult rats. We found that neonatal axons grew 40% faster than adult axons (11.5 µm/hour vs. 8.2 µm/hour). To determine how the mechanical properties of axons change during maturation, we used force calibrated towing needles to measure the viscosity (stiffness) and strength of substrate adhesion of neonatal and adult sensory axons. We found no significant difference in the strength of adhesions, but did find that adult axons were 3 times intrinsically stiffer than neonatal axons. Taken together, our results suggest decreasing axonal stiffness may be part of an effective strategy to accelerate the regeneration of axons in the adult peripheral nervous system.
Possible Reasons for the Variability of Human Responses to IAC‐CPR

Objective: To propose reasons for the variability of the hemodynamic responses and survival data observed when interposed abdominal compression cardiopulmonary resuscitation (IAC-CPR) is performed on humans in cardiac arrest. Methods: Critical content review of all studies performed in the United States examining IAC-CPR in humans and of selected animal studies addressing hemodynamic mechanisms of CPR. Articles in the English language dealing with human IAC-CPR studies from 1970–1993 were retrieved using the MEDLINE database of the National Library of Medicine. Results: IAC-CPR does not consistently improve coronary perfusion pressure (CPP) over standard CPR in humans and is capable of decreasing as well as increasing CPP. This variability does not seem dependent on the manner in which abdominal compressions are performed. Because of the limited response to standard CPR, significant increases in return of spontaneous circulation would be expected with IAC-CPR if a large percentage of patients were to have favorable increases in CPP. However, other patients may be adversely affected by decreases in CPP during IAC-CPR, with unsuccessful resuscitation of those individuals. Return of spontaneous circulation also may be enhanced using IAC-CPR due to other factors reflected in the initial arrest rhythm and in arrest-population demographics. Conclusion: IAC-CPR should not be recommended for routine use until the mechanism of its beneficial effects is known and until those patients who are likely to benefit from the technique can be better identified.
Superlattice and negative differential conductivity in semiconductors

We consider a one-dimensional periodic potential, or "superlattice," in monocrystalline semiconductors formbeyd a periodic variation of alloy composition or of impurity density introduced during epitaxial growth. If the period of a superlattice, of the order of 100A, is shorter than the electron mean free path, a series of narrow allowed and forbidden bands is expected duet o the subdivision of the Brillouin zone into a series of minizones. If the scattering time of electrons meets a threshold condition, the combined effect of the narrow energy band and the narrow wave-vector zone makes it possible for electrons to be excited with moderate electric fields to an energy and momentum beyond an inflection point in the E-k relation; this results ina negative differential conductance in the direction of the superlattice. The study of superlattices and observations of quantum mechanical effects on a new physical scale may provide a valuable area of investigation in the fieId of semiconductors.
A DANTE tagging sequence for the evaluation of translational sample motion.

A magnetic resonance imaging sequence that is sensitive to translational motion such as that seen with cardiac contraction is presented. The sequence employs DANTE radiofrequency excitation with a continuous magnetic field gradient to generate a grid pattern of lines. There is improved line resolution and reduced eddy-current formation over Current techniques. © 1990 Academic Press, Inc.
Parasitoid fauna of two Phyllonorycter spp. (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) on wild cherries, and similarity to fauna of apple leafminers.

Sixteen species of parasitoids emerged from mines of Phyllonorycter crataegella (Clemens) on pin cherry in Connecticut, and 12 emerged from mines of P. propinquinella (Braun) on black cherry. Fifteen species were eulophids, and one was a braconid. Nine species were primary parasitoids, and seven were facultative hyperparasitoids. Five eulophid species were gregarious. Relative abundance of most parasitoid species differed between host leafminers, although seasonal abundance patterns of some parasitoids were similar. The braconid Pholetesor ornigis (Weed) and the eulophid Sympiesis marylandensis Girault caused most of the parasitism of P. crataegella and P. propinquinella , respectively. Based on two similarity indices, the parasitoid fauna of P. crataegella on sprayed apple trees was more similar to that of P. propinquinella on black cherry than to that of P. crataegella on pin cherry. Both cherry leafminers are important alternate hosts for parasitoid species that attack economically important apple leafminers.
Racial differences in the association of pentraxin-3 with kidney dysfunction: the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis

Background. Pentraxin-3 (PTX3), an inflammatory marker thought to be related to vascular inflammation, is elevated in advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD). Whether PTX3 is associated with mild to moderate kidney dysfunction is unknown. Methods. We tested associations of proteins in the pentraxin family [PTX3, C-reactive protein (CRP) and serum amyloid protein (SAP)] with estimated glomerular filtration rate by cystatin C (eGFRcys) and microalbuminuria among 2824 participants in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. Associations were tested using multivariable linear regression with adjustment for demographics (age, gender, annual income), comorbidities (diabetes, hypertension, smoking, body mass index, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, ACE inhibitor and statin use) and systemic inflammation [interleukin-6 (IL-6)]. Results. Among the 2824 participants, mean age was 62 years and mean eGFRcys was 94 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ; 25% were white, 25% Chinese, 25% African-American and 25% Hispanic. Among all participants after full adjustment, higher PTX3 was associated with lower eGFRcys independently of IL-6 (β −3.0 mL/min/1.73 m 2 per unit increase in lnPTX3, P < 0.001). In contrast, CRP and SAP were associated with eGFRcys in demographic adjusted models, but these associations were attenuated after adjustment for comorbidities and IL-6 (lnCRP β −0.06, P = 0.9; lnSAP β −0.35, P =0.7). Therewas asignificant interaction with race/ethnicity (P < 0.001) in the association of PTX3 and eGFRcys. After adjustment for demographics, comorbidities and IL-6, this association was significant in blacks (β −5.7 mL/min/1.73 m 2 per unit increase in lnPTX3, P = 0.002) but not in Hispanics (β −2.4, P = 0.1), Chinese (β −0.91, P = 0.5) or whites (β −0.26, P = 0.9). PTX3 and CRP, but not SAP, had correlations with microalbuminuria in unadjusted models (Spearman coefficients PTX3 0.05, P = 0.005; CRP 0.07, P < 0.001; SAP 0.013, P = 0.5), but these were attenuated after full adjustment. Conclusions. Endovascular inflammation may be an important mechanism associated with early kidney dysfunction, particularly among blacks. This mechanism appears to be independent of IL-6-regulated pathways.
Cardiovascular Disease, Neuropathy, and Retinopathy

This is the sixth of a series of six articles based on presentations at the American Diabetes Association Scientific Sessions held 6–10 June 2008 in San Francisco, California. ### Role of glycemia in cardiovascular disease Jacqueline Dekker (Amsterdam, the Netherlands) discussed the association between hyperglycemia and cardiovascular disease (CVD), particularly addressing A1C measurement in nondiabetic individuals. A1C, she noted, is considered a gold-standard measure of chronic glycemia in diabetic patients. In nondiabetic populations, its implications are somewhat less clear. In a study of 648 apparently healthy individuals, 12% had an elevated total A 1 level (measured in that study) not explained by measurement error or glucose intolerance and remaining in the same range over 3.5 years in 90% of those initially with high and in 68% of those initially with low baseline levels (1). There was no correlation with glucose tolerance, with caloric intake, or with physical activity, but A 1 level was associated with cigarette use and with clinically overt atherosclerosis, leading Dekker to conclude that “factors unrelated to glucose metabolism are the main determinants of A 1” in nondiabetic individuals, perhaps with bearing on risk of what are considered complications of diabetes. A subsequent study of 3,240 nondiabetic individuals showed weak correlation of A1C with fasting and 2-h glucose, cholesterol, and insulin. Weak but significant correlations were also found with erythrocyte characteristics, and cigarette use was associated with higher A1C, again suggesting nonglycemic effects on hemoglobin glycation (2). In the Islington Diabetes Survey, 1,084 participants had glucose tolerance tests and four different A1C assays. The 2-h postload glucose explained 19–41% of the variation in A1C, depending on the assay, and 26–48% of the variation was explained by the fasting glucose, with low and high glycators remaining constant over 4 years (3). If 50–80% is not explained by glycemia, the implication is, again, that although …
Automated Telephone Conversations to Assess Health Behavior and Deliver Behavioral Interventions

The medical care system is not very effective in modifying health behavior of individuals, in particular, ensuring patient compliance with medication regimens, healthy diets, regular physical activity, and regular health screening, and in the avoidance of substance abuse. Telephone-Linked Care (TLC) is a telecommunications technology that enables computer-controlled telephone counseling with patients in their homes. It has been applied to the task of improving a number of different health behaviors. Randomized controlled studies suggest that use of the system for as little as 3 months is associated with improvement in adherence to medication regimens, dietary change in hypercholesterolemia, and increased physical activity among sedentary individuals. Future work involves applying the technology to other important health behaviors, optimally using health behavior theory in the system design, targeting use of TLC to the most appropriate patient groups, incorporating new computer and telecommunications technology into the system, and interfacing TLC into the health care delivery system.
Dynamic data compression in multi-hop wireless networks

Data compression can save energy and increase network capacity in wireless sensor networks. However, the decision of whether and when to compress data can depend upon platform hardware, topology, wireless channel conditions, and application data rates. Using Lyapunov optimization theory, we design an algorithm called SEEC that makes joint compression and transmission decisions with the goal of minimizing energy consumption. A practical distributed variant, DSEEC, is able to achieve more than 30% energy savings and adapts seamlessly across a wide range of conditions, without explicitly taking topology, application data rates, and link quality changes into account.
Vascular Dysfunction in Hyperglycemia

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States with accelerated cardiovascular disease accounting for most (>75%) of the mortality. Major complications include retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, and vasculopathy. Each has been linked to the severity of hyperglycemia; thus, the mainstay of treatment has been to aggressively control serum glucose levels. This practice is supported by the large NIH-sponsored Diabetes Complications and Control Trial that linked control of glucose to delayed onset of complications.1 Other mechanisms may also contribute because restoration of euglycemia does not always abrogate progression of established disease.2 Thus, alternative therapeutic approaches based on an understanding of the mechanisms of glucose-induced end-organ damage are needed. In the current issue of Circulation Research , Beckman et al3 describe the reversal of hyperglycemia-induced endothelial dysfunction in subjects treated with a novel, selective blocker of protein kinase C (PKC) β. The role of PKC in the vascular complications of DM has been established in animals. This study represents an important translational extension into the clinical arena supporting the possibility of drug trials. However, to appreciate the role of PKC in diabetic vascular disease, the complexity of mechanisms by which elevated levels of glucose causes tissue damage must be recognized. Three major mechanisms have been proposed. First, glucose stimulates flux through the sorbitol pathway creating an intracellular reductive redox shift with accumulation of NADPH. This reduces cellular uptake of myoinositol and decreases sodium-potassium ATPase activity. Blocking the sorbitol pathway with aldose reductase inhibitors improves peripheral nerve conduction but has little effect on diabetic retinopathy, indicating that different mechanisms participate in the vasculopathy of DM.4 Second, glucose can nonenzymatically glycosylate cellular proteins over time, yielding advanced glycosylated end-products (AGEs). AGEs can directly alter protein function or activate specific receptors with resultant changes in gene …
Notes on a Past Logic of Time

One of the most significant characteristics of a logic based-upon analysis of a language in use is the role of temporal distinctions in the development of rules of discourse. Temporal designations are encountered in the analysis of simple propositions into terms and attributes or relations, and allowance for temporal factors affects rules governing conditions for truth at the propositional level. Temporal considerations also enter into relations between propositions. They are particularly important in the analysis and definition of conditionals. When logic is carried on in a more mathematical artificial language, however, the greater degree of abstraction produces a non-temporal situation. If time conditions are to be noted, they must be reintroduced as special temporal modes.