cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
“New Twist” in Diabetes Care for HbA1c Reporting: “It Takes Two to Tango”!

Most likely everyone, at some point in an everyday conversation, has heard the phrase, “ it takes two to tango . ” The saying originated in a song, “Takes Two to Tango,” which was written and composed in 1952 by Al Hoffman and Dick Manning (1). Apparently this particular phrase was incorporated in the lyrics of a song about romance, but this expression has been applied to a much broader range of situations. For example, it might be used to describe an activity between two individuals or organizations that cannot be completed unless both are in complete agreement and cooperate. The phrase, perhaps accompanied by throwing up one’s hands, may also describe why certain activities are not brought to fruition: because one or the other party refuses to cooperate or does not hold up their end of the bargain, or because both parties are to blame. Given these variations on the theme, we suggest that, given the focus on HbA1c in this issue of Diabetes Care , the phrase “it takes two to tango” is an appropriate description of our new policy at the journal to require dual reporting of units for HbA1c. Readers may be curious why so much focus is placed on HbA1c in the current issue. First, there is an original research article on a metric assessing discordance between HbA1c and blood glucose, termed the glycation gap (2). We also feature a review on the history and standardization of HbA1c by Dr. David Sacks (3), a very thoughtful commentary on the original research and HbA1c review by Cohen and Lindsell (4), and our new initiative (Profiles in Progress) about …
Doxorubicin-based chemotherapy and radiation increase cardiac perfusion changes in patients treated for left-sided breast cancer

a severity 1.5 SD below the mean was quantitatively analyzed for the territories of the left anterior descending (LAD), left circumfl ex (LCX) and right coronary (RCA) arteries based on computer assisted polar map reconstruction (PMR), i.e. bull’s-eye-view. Changes in perfusion were correlated with percent of the SPECT-defi ned LV incidentally irradiated to 25 Gy (range: 0-32%). The results from the quantitative PMR-analyses were compared with the standard semi-quantitative visual SPECT MPI analyses by nuclear medicine radiologist (12-segment model; severity score 0-3) (summed rest score-SRS). Results: In the LAD-territory, there was a mean increase in PMR perfusion defects of 13% at 6 mos. an d7%a t 12mos. compared to baseline (Friedman ANOVA, P0.006). No differences in perfusion were found in the LCX- or the RCAterritories at 6 or 12 mos. compared to base line. A statistically signi fi cant association between perfusion defects in the LAD-territory at 6 mos. and percent irradiated LV was present for the SRS-method (Spearman Correlation, P0.001), and a trend for association was found in the PMR-analysis (P0.10). When the results from the PMR- and SRS-analyses of the LAD-territory at 6 mos. were compared, an association in the directional trend of the perfusion changes was found (Gamma Statistics, P0.001). The results were unchanged when controlled for the potential effects of co-variates. Conclusions: Tangential photon beam RT in patients with left-sided BC was associated with perfusion defects in the vascular distribution corresponding to the LAD. The percent of LV demonstrating perfusion changes appeared to be of a similar magnitude as the percent incidentally irradiated LV volume among the majority of patients, suggesting that the defects at 6-12 mos. could be manifested via small vessel- rather than coronary artery dysfunction. The PMR- and SRS-methods provided similar results in the LAD territory, implying that the PMR-technique could be a useful compliment to the standard SRS-method for objective quantifi cation of intra patient changes over time following BC irradiation. Up-dated results including data from 18 mos. PMR-analyses will be presented at the meeting.
Comparative genotoxicity and cytotoxicity of four hexavalent chromium compounds in human bronchial cells

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) compounds are well-established human lung carcinogens. Solubility plays an important role in their carcinogenicity with the particulate Cr(VI) compounds being the most ...
Synthesis of type I and type II collagen by embryonic chick cartilage

Abstract Embryonic chick articular and keel cartilage was found to synthesize two types of collagen. The amount of Type I collagen synthesis decreased from 60% to nearly 10% during the embryonic period studied, thus suggesting not only coexistence of both collagen types in the same tissue, but also a developmental transformation from predominantly Type I synthesis to Type II synthesis with cartilage development and maturation. Radioautographs suggested that all chondrocytes were equally active in collagen synthesis and failed to show any significant non-cartilagenous tissue contamination. Therefore variation in collagen type synthesis must be a product of some unknown genetic regulatory mechanism within the cartilage tissue.
Punch stretching of sheet metal and differential equations on manifolds

The goal of mathematical modelling of sheet metal forming processes is to provide predictive tools for use in the design of stamping processes and the selection of sheet materials. Most current approaches to finite element modelling of large deformation, elastic–plastic sheet metal forming problems use a rate form of the virtual work (equilibrium) equations, and a single-field finite element representation of the displacement components. Called the incremental method, this approach does not produce approximations which satisfy the discrete equilibrium equations at all times, and consequently it demands small time steps to insure stability and numerical accuracy. This paper describes a variant of the mixed method in which displacements, stresses, effective strain and pressures are all given separate finite element representations. The equilibrium equations in non-rate form are discretized to produce a system of algebraic equations which are coupled with the constitutive equations and then integrated using state-of-the-art numerical software. When used to model rate sensitive sheet materials in hydrostatic bulging, plane strain punch stretching and hemispherical punch stretching, the new approach proved to be between 6 and 26 times as fast as the old incremental method.
The Collapsed Gibbs Sampler in Bayesian Computations with Applications to a Gene Regulation Problem

Abstract This article describes a method of “grouping” and “collapsing” in using the Gibbs sampler and proves from an operator theory viewpoint that the method is in general beneficial. The norms of the forward operators associated with the corresponding nonreversible Markov chains are used to discriminate among different simulation schemes. When applied to Bayesian missing data problems, the idea of collapsing suggests skipping the steps of sampling parameter(s) values in standard data augmentation. By doing this, we obtain a predictive update version of the Gibbs sampler. A procedure of calculating the posterior odds ratio via the collapsed Gibbs sampler when incomplete observations are involved is presented. As an illustration of possible applications, three examples, along with a Bayesian treatment for identifying common protein binding sites in unaligned DNA sequences, are provided.
Trajectory Reconstruction and Uncertainty Analysis Using Mars Science Laboratory Pre-Flight Scale Model Aeroballistic Testing

As part of the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) trajectory reconstruction effort at NASA Langley Research Center, free-flight aeroballistic experiments of instrumented MSL scale models was conducted at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland. The models carried an inertial measurement unit (IMU) and a flush air data system (FADS) similar to the MSL Entry Atmospheric Data System (MEADS) that provided data types similar to those from the MSL entry. Multiple sources of redundant data were available, including tracking radar and on-board magnetometers. These experimental data enabled the testing and validation of the various tools and methodologies that will be used for MSL trajectory reconstruction. The aerodynamic parameters Mach number, angle of attack, and sideslip angle were estimated using minimum variance with a priori to combine the pressure data and pre-flight computational fluid dynamics (CFD) data. Both linear and non-linear pressure model terms were also estimated for each pressure transducer as a measure of the errors introduced by CFD and transducer calibration. Parameter uncertainties were estimated using a "consider parameters" approach.
Novel methods to study functional loading micromechanics at the stem–cement and cement–bone interface in cemented femoral hip replacements

We have developed a technique to directly observe the micromechanics of the stem-cement and cement-bone interfaces of cemented femoral stems under physiologically relevant loading conditions. Thick transverse sections of a stem-cement-femur construct were fixed to the base of a test frame. Ante- and retro-verting torques were applied to the femoral stem by screwing the stem (via a pair of through holes) to an axle, which was turned using a lever arm actuated by the test frame cross-head. The surface of each transverse section was serially digitally imaged during loading. The displacements of the stem, cement and bone were determined using digital image correlation. These data were then used to calculate the relative displacements across the interfaces. This method provides a path to more thorough understanding of load-transfer from femoral stem to femur.
Sensitivity Characteristics Of A Prototype Selenium Plate Detection System For Digital Radiographic Imaging

We present an X ray measurement methodology with some preliminary X ray sensitivity characteristics for a prototype digital radiography system using amorphous selenium as the primary image receptor. As an imaging modality this experimental electrostatic system has the potential to replace film in existing general diagnostic radiography procedures. The imaging plate consists of a 360 micron layer of amorphous selenium deposited on an aluminumoxide substrate. An initial plate charge of 1400 volts (3.9 volts per micron) was exposed to X ray spectra produced with 50, 70, and 90 kVp with total filtration of 3 mm aluminum and 9 cm lucite. After this exposure the plate was scanned by a bank of electrometer probes at a distance of 100 microns. Sensitometric comparisons were then made to a conventional calcium-tungstate film-screen combination. The sensiometric response of the system is shown to be linear with an almost four fold increase in exposure latitude.
Hospital-Based Palliative Care: Cost-Effective Care for Patients With Advanced Disease

Palliative care programs in acute care facilities provide a safety net for patients with advanced disease. While providing aggressive symptom management for patients, these programs are also cost-effective. This author discusses the economic advantages of improving care for patients with advanced disease.
Treatment Resistance in Stem Cells and Breast Cancer

Cancer stem cells are resistant to current chemotherapy and radiation regimens available for breast cancer, making it imperative to study the mechanisms of resistance and development of therapeutic strategies that targets the tumor initiating cell population. One of the difficulties in identifying new drug targets has been that our current high throughput drug screens look for tumor shrinkage and do not incorporate the impact of compounds on the cancer stem cell population. In this review we discuss the literature on treatment resistance in breast cancer and the design of new clinical trials for test compounds which will allow us to determine both the reduction in tumor size and decrease in cancer stem cell population. In order to detect the effect of target compounds on cancer stem cells in a clinical setting, we will need to do multiple assays which include high throughput flow sorting analysis to determine the total number of CD44+/CD24−/low/Lin− and ALDH1 positive cells, as well as in-vitro mammosphere formation assay which is a functional assay dependent on the self renewal and anchorage independent growth properties of these cells.
GLYX-13, a NMDA Receptor Glycine-Site Functional Partial Agonist, Induces Antidepressant-Like Effects Without Ketamine-Like Side Effects

Recent human clinical studies with the NMDA receptor (NMDAR) antagonist ketamine have revealed profound and long-lasting antidepressant effects with rapid onset in several clinical trials, but antidepressant effects were preceded by dissociative side effects. Here we show that GLYX-13, a novel NMDAR glycine-site functional partial agonist, produces an antidepressant-like effect in the Porsolt, novelty induced hypophagia, and learned helplessness tests in rats without exhibiting substance abuse-related, gating, and sedative side effects of ketamine in the drug discrimination, conditioned place preference, pre-pulse inhibition and open-field tests. Like ketamine, the GLYX-13-induced antidepressant-like effects required AMPA/kainate receptor activation, as evidenced by the ability of NBQX to abolish the antidepressant-like effect. Both GLYX-13 and ketamine persistently (24 h) enhanced the induction of long-term potentiation of synaptic transmission and the magnitude of NMDAR-NR2B conductance at rat Schaffer collateral-CA1 synapses in vitro. Cell surface biotinylation studies showed that both GLYX-13 and ketamine led to increases in both NR2B and GluR1 protein levels, as measured by Western analysis, whereas no changes were seen in mRNA expression (microarray and qRT-PCR). GLYX-13, unlike ketamine, produced its antidepressant-like effect when injected directly into the medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC). These results suggest that GLYX-13 produces an antidepressant-like effect without the side effects seen with ketamine at least in part by directly modulating NR2B-containing NMDARs in the MPFC. Furthermore, the enhancement of 'metaplasticity' by both GLYX-13 and ketamine may help explain the long-lasting antidepressant effects of these NMDAR modulators. GLYX-13 is currently in a Phase II clinical development program for treatment-resistant depression.
Practical applications of engineering Gram-negative bacterial cell surfaces

The recent development of systems for the expression of heterologous proteins on the surface of Gram-negative bacteria has stimulated considerable interest in practical applications. Areas in which surface expression is particularly important include the development of live bacterial vaccines, the display and selection of peptide and antibody libraries, the production of whole cell adsorbents, and the preparation of microbial biocatalysts.
Entropy Evaporated by a Black Hole

It is shown that the entropy of the radiation evaporated by an uncharged, nonrotating black hole into vacuum in the course of its lifetime is approximately $\frac{4}{3}$ times the initial entropy of this black hole. Also considered is a thermodynamically reversible process in which an increase of black-hole entropy is equal to the decrease of the entropy of its surroundings. Implications of these results for the generalized second law of thermodynamics and for the interpretation of black-hole entropy are pointed out.
Developing Multiple Language Versions of Instruments for Intercultural Research

This article examines the strengths and weaknesses of several translation techniques currently in use through the lens of emerging opinions on the science and ethics of intercultural research. Broad scientific and ethical dimensions relevant to translating instruments and a distinction between generating multiple language forms of two kinds of instruments are introduced: those in which wording in the source language cannot be altered and those in which constraints of the target language can lead to changes in the original instrument's wording. Developmental psychologists engaged in intercultural research can consider techniques for minimizing the influence of Western perspectives while pursuing conceptual equivalence in order to satisfy science's concern for internal validity of translated instruments.
Teaching in the Global Business Classroom

By Carol Dalglish and Peter Evans (Edward Elgar, Cheltenham, 2008), 148 pp., $40 (pbk), ISBN 978‐1849800525, $90 (hbk), ISBN 978‐1847200556 International students have been matriculating in Western...
Computerized microfluidic cell culture using elastomeric channels and Braille displays

Computer-controlled microfluidics would advance many types of cellular assays and microscale tissue engineering studies wherever spatiotemporal changes in fluidics need to be defined. However, this goal has been elusive because of the limited availability of integrated, programmable pumps and valves. This paper demonstrates how a refreshable Braille display, with its grid of 320 vertically moving pins, can power integrated pumps and valves through localized deformations of channel networks within elastic silicone rubber. The resulting computerized fluidic control is able to switch among: (i) rapid and efficient mixing between streams, (ii) multiple laminar flows with minimal mixing between streams, and (iii) segmented plug-flow of immiscible fluids within the same channel architecture. The same control method is used to precisely seed cells, compartmentalize them into distinct subpopulations through channel reconfiguration, and culture each cell subpopulation for up to 3 weeks under perfusion. These reliable microscale cell cultures showed gradients of cellular behavior from C2C12 myoblasts along channel lengths, as well as differences in cell density of undifferentiated myoblasts and differentiation patterns, both programmable through different flow rates of serum-containing media. This technology will allow future microscale tissue or cell studies to be more accessible, especially for high-throughput, complex, and long-term experiments. The microfluidic actuation method described is versatile and computer programmable, yet simple, well packaged, and portable enough for personal use.
Negative Attributes in the Church Fathers and the Gnostic Basilides

By the time the Fathers of the Church began to offer negation as a solution of the problem of divine attributes, the theory of negative attributes had already been dealt with by Philo, Albinus, and Plotinus. All three of them, starting with the assumption that God is ineffable, found that one way of describing God was by means of negative attributes. In their treatment of this type of attributes, however, there is a difference between Philo on the one hand and Albinus and Plotinus on the other.
Repayment rate of loans from semi-formal financial institutions among small-scale farmers in Ethiopia: Two-limit Tobit analysis

Abstract Improving small-scale farmers’ access to credit is one of the ways of achieving increased agricultural productivity to reduce poverty in Ethiopia. In this study, a two-limit Tobit model was used to analyze the determinants of repayment rate of loans from semi-formal financial institutions among small-scale farmers in Ethiopia. Small group lending, was found to be related to the loan repayment rate of the farmers positively and significantly. Furthermore, agro-ecology, total land holding size, total livestock holding, experience in the use of agricultural extension services, contact with extension agents and income from off-farm activities were found to affect the loan repayment rate of the households significantly. Consideration of these factors would reduce default rates on borrowed funds from semi-formal credit sources in the area.
Natural variation in iron use efficiency and mineral remobilization in cucumber ( Cucumis sativus )

Iron (Fe) is an essential micronutrient, and plant available Fe is often limited in alkaline soils. Fe deficiency chlorosis decreases plant growth and yield. Identification of germplasm with high and low Fe use efficiency will allow studies to better understand the genetic components for breeding Fe efficient varieties. A screen using cucumber (Cucumis sativus) seedlings identified varieties that maintained contrasting levels of chlorophyll under Fe deficiency or limitation. A time course of mineral dynamics in cotyledons was conducted. The variety Ashley had the highest chlorophyll under Fe deficiency and per unit Fe in the leaf, while the variety Miniature White had the lowest. Ashley also maintained higher chlorophyll when challenged with low Fe or bicarbonate, accumulated greater quantities of Fe, and had higher root ferric reductase activity. Cotyledons accumulated minerals for the first several days, then Fe, P, K, and Cu were remobilized. The Fe use efficient and inefficient varieties remobilized Fe and P on different timescales. Our results suggest that this screen can identify varieties for systems level studies that could elucidate factors needed for Fe use efficiency and remobilization of minerals. The time course indicated that cotyledon Fe stores did not contribute to seedling Fe use efficiency.
Ghost cell ameloblastoma: a new microscopic variant?

We are reporting a case of ameloblastoma with ghost cells as a prominent feature and support the acceptance of “ghost cell ameloblastoma” as a microscopic variant of ameloblastoma. Ameloblastoma is a common odontogenic tumor. Several microscopic subtypes including follicular, plexiform, acanthomatous, granular cell, desmoplastic, and basal cell have been described in the literature. Ghost cell ameloblastoma has not been reported as such, but ghost cells in ameloblastoma have been alluded to in the literature and has been suggested as a variant. A 69-year-old white female presented with a multilocular radiolucency from teeth numbers 21 to 22. She had a history of enucleation of a lesion in the same area 2 years previously. The microscopic diagnosis of the previous lesion had been ameloblastoma and demonstrated the classic microscopic features of ameloblastoma. The lesion had recurred and had increased in size. Ghost cell elements appeared in the recurrence of this ameloblastoma. The nomenclature of ghost cell containing odontogenic neoplasms and the aggressiveness of these tumors will be discussed.
Current trends in burn research Part I

Abstract Research related to thermal injury, both clinical and laboratory, has been exceedingly active in the past several years. Attempts have been and are being made to arrive at a more thorough understanding of the pathophysiological changes pursuant to burns, with the concomitant development of more physiological means of altering these deleterious effects. Problems related to skin grafting have been similarly scrutinized; a greater interest has been displayed in the physiology and biochemistry of the skin, and early steps have been taken to develop a satisfactory skin substitute. The most significant result of research in burns in recent years has unequivocally been the development of means of controlling burn-wound sepsis, thereby preventing bacterial invasion, and significantly improving survival in the burned patient.
The law and the loop

The law is often called upon when a technology becomes increasingly ubiquitous and thereby presents previously isolated ethical issues to society at large. Automation is no exception and rapid developments in sensors, computing, and robotics, as well as power, kinematics, control, telecommunications, and artificial intelligence, have presented concerns to all sectors of society that were once confined to manufacturing, mass transit, and military operations. The growing concern about the large scale introduction of more sophisticated automation has driven discussions of regulation. The goals of policy are human centered; they protect or promote values threatened or enhanced by the use of automation, such as safety, privacy, dignity, self-determination, and accountability. However, an analysis of five case studies of legal treatment of automation reveals a dangerous trend: by focusing on the capabilities of the automation at a given time, past legal approaches ignore the sociotechnical nature of automation. This approach results in less protection of the values initially at issue, an irony similar to the one described by Lisanne Bainbridge in 1983. The irony is a product of neglect of the sociotechnical nature of automation: the relationship between humans and machines is interdependent; humans will always be in the loop; and reactive policy responses do not provide general ethical guidance. Like systems engineers 30 years ago, policy-makers must adjust their approaches to recognize the sociotechnical nature of man and machine in automated systems to avoid the ironies of automation law and meet the goals of ethical integration.
An Unusual Perigastric Cyst

Question: A 53-year-old man was referred for evaluation of a large cyst found during evaluation for abdominal fullness, early satiety and weight loss, and an abdominal mass on physical examination. Two endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) examinations with cyst fluid aspiration were performed before referral to our center revealing negative cytology with low levels of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), and absent levels of amylase and lipase. There was no history of alcohol use, pancreatic disease, family history of pancreatic disease, or personal history of malignancy. An abdominal MRI was performed before referral (Figure A). At our institution EUS was repeated. What is the diagnosis? Look on page 1229 for the answer and see the Gastroenterology web site (www.gastrojournal.org) for more information on submitting your favorite image to Clinical Challenges and Images in GI.
A NOTE ON ELSE'S TREATMENT OF QUALITY AND PUBLIC GOODS

Although quality can sometimes be portrayed as a private characteristic of consumption, quality will usually have collective consumption characteristics. For most goods, the regular quantity dimension is analyzed like a private good while the quality dimensions lend themselves to analysis along the lines of excludable public goods. For the quality of a good to be a private dimension requires that any potential change in quality affects only the units consumed by one person, so that only one person's evaluation of the change is relevant for welfare analysis. Although such cases exist, they are likely to be rare. Copyright 1990 by Scottish Economic Society.
Local knockdown of genes in the brain using small interfering RNA: a phenotypic comparison with knockout animals.

Background Recent reports have suggested effectiveness of RNA interference (RNAi) for the analysis of gene functions in the brain. This study sought to determine the efficiency of local small interfering RNA (siRNA) injections, comparing this approach with animals generated through classical gene targeting. Methods Small interfering RNA against dopamine transporter (DAT) (35 μg/14 days) or tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) (15 μg/3 days) was injected into the ventral tegmental/substantia nigra areas of the brain of adult wildtype or DAT-knockout mice, respectively. Results Local injections of siRNA resulted in a 35% to 40% reduction of DAT and TH protein levels in the striatum, respectively. Despite negligible effect of DAT knockdown on novelty-induced locomotion, the locomotor response of DAT siRNA treated animals to amphetamine was blunted similar to what is observed in the DAT heterozygote animals. Since incomplete reduction of TH levels in normal mice does not produce behavioral effects, TH siRNA experiments were carried out in DAT-knockout animals that show increased dependence on newly synthesized dopamine. Knockdown of TH in these animals resulted in reduced basal locomotion. Conclusions Local injection of siRNA in the brain reduced gene expression by 40% to 50%, suggesting that siRNA-mediated knockdown of genes in the brain can be a complementary tool to classical transgenesis for the analysis of gene functions.
Choice, interests, and black political actors: The dilemmas of inclusion

This is an analysis of qualitative data collected from formal and informal black political actors in Richmond, Virginia. It will outline the elements of tactical and strategic political styles that have developed during the process of racial inclusion and from the emergence of diverse political interests in the African-American community. These political styles have implications for the biases inherent in American political systems and for the advance of specific and collective political interests. Their differences are displayed in the choices political actors make about structuring their political power, the identity of their constituency, and structuring their demands for political resources. This case illustrates the dilemmas faced by all minority political actors, across the country and around the world, who are involved in the transition from racial political exclusion to racial political participation. Their dilemmas are brought to light in the choices that they must make in the face of both fading and persistent racial inequality.
Bifurcation analysis of deep boreholes: I. Surface instabilities

In this paper a bifurcation analysis of boreholes in deep rock formations under uniform stress at infinity is presented. Rock is described by the constitutive equations of a deformation theory of plasticity for rigidplastic, incompressible and cohesive-frictional material. The corresponding bifurcation problem is solved numerically by the finite element method. The evidence gained from the numerical solution is utilized to establish a simplified borehole stability analysis that combines Biot's hodograph method with a surface instability analysis.
Commitment, Communication, and Contending with Heteronormativity: An Invitation to Greater Reflexivity in Interpersonal Research

This critical essay examines commitment as a construct within interpersonal communication research and pedagogy. I argue that heteronormative ideologies about relationships infiltrate communication scholarship and teaching, often reinscribing heterocentric assumptions and hierarchies regarding what kinds of relationships are most worthwhile, commendable, and legitimate. This essay is intended to be provocative and to contribute to the current conversation by inviting interpersonal communication researchers and teachers to be more reflexive in the ways they operationalize commitment and relationships in general.
A problem of classification of quantum groups

An attempt to formulate a precise program of classification of a large family of quantum groups is presented. This family includes the familiar quantum groups and quantum supergroups, but much more, all unified in a very simple structure. The emphasis is on the logic of the classification scheme. Recent results are reported without much explanation and proofs are described only in a general way.
Spectra, Spatial Scales, and Predictability in a Quasigeostrophic Model

Results from homogeneous, isotropic turbulence suggest that predictability behavior is linked to the slope of a flow’s kinetic energy spectrum. Such a link has potential implications for the predictability behavior of atmospheric models. This article investigates these topics in an intermediate context: a multilevel quasigeostrophic model with a jet and temperature perturbations at the upper surface (a surrogate tropopause). Spectra and perturbation growth behavior are examined at three model resolutions. The results augment previous studies of spectra and predictability in quasigeostrophic models, and they provide insight that can help interpret results from more complex models. At the highest resolution tested, the slope of the kinetic energy spectrum is approximately 2 7 / 3 at the upper surface but 23 or steeper at all but the uppermost interior model levels. Consistent with this, the model’s predictability behavior exhibits key features expected for flow with a shallower than 23 slope. At the highest resolution, upper-surface perturbation spectra peak below the energy-containing scales, and the error growth rate decreases as small scales saturate. In addition, as model resolution is increased and smaller scales are resolved, the peak of the upper-surface perturbation spectra shifts to smaller scales and the error growth rate increases. The implications for potential predictive improvements are not as severe, however, as in the standard picture of flows exhibiting a finite predictability limit. At the highest resolution, the model also exhibits periods of much faster-than-average perturbation growth that are associated with faster growth at smaller scales, suggesting predictability behavior that varies with time.
Inhibition of lymphocyte proliferation by bovine trophoblast protein-1 (Type I trophoblast interferon) and bovine interferon-αI1

Bovine trophoblast protein-1 (bTP-1) is a Type I interferon secreted by the bovine trophoblast from about Day 15 of pregnancy. It is not known whether bTP-1 has functional properties in common with other interferons. The aim of the present study was to determine whether bTP-1 inhibits proliferation of lymphocytes induced by mitogens, mixed lymphocyte cultures (MLC) and interleukin-2 (IL-2) and, if so, whether this activity is similar to that of a related interferon, bovine interferon-alpha I1 (bIFN-alpha I1). Stimulation of lymphocyte proliferation caused by phytohemagglutinin (PHA), concanavalin A (Con A) and pokeweed mitogen (PWM) was inhibited by bTP-1 and bIFN-alpha I1 without any reduction in cell viability. Maximum or near-maximum inhibition (less than 50%) was achieved at concentrations of 0.5-5.0 nM of bTP-1 and bIFN-alpha I1. Cells stimulated with PWM were less inhibited than cells stimulated with PHA and Con A. Both bTP-1 and bIFN-alpha I1 inhibited MLC to a greater degree than lectin-stimulated cells (maximum inhibition was 78% or greater). Also, bTP-1 and bIFN-alpha I1 slightly inhibited incorporation of [3H]thymidine ([3H]TdR) induced by the combination of phorbol ester, 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA), and calcium ionophore A23187. Finally, bTP-1 and bIFN-alpha I1 had bimodal effects on incorporation of [3H]TdR by IL-2-induced lymphocytes. Incorporation of [3H]TdR was increased at 0.005 nM and 0.05 nM concentrations while higher concentrations caused a slight decrease in [3H]TdR incorporation. Results confirm that bTP-1 inhibits lymphocyte proliferation in a manner similar to that caused by the leukocyte-derived interferon, bIFN-alpha I1. Incomplete inhibition of mitogen-induced proliferation and differences in degree of inhibition between various stimulators suggest that bTP-1 and bIFN-alpha I1 preferentially inhibit certain lymphocyte subpopulations. Local inhibition of lymphocyte proliferation caused by bTP-1 may help protect the allogeneic conceptus from immune responses to fetal antigens or regulate the release of cytokines from endometrial lymphocytes.
IC failure analysis: techniques and tools for quality reliability improvement

The role of failure analysis is discussed. Failure analysis techniques and tools, including electrical measurements, optical microscopy, thermal imaging analysis, electron beam techniques, light emission microscopy, ion beam techniques, and scanning probe microscopy, are reviewed. Opportunities for advances in the field of IC failure analysis are considered. >
Cultural Values, Life Experiences, and Wisdom:

Wisdom is considered one ideal endpoint of human development across cultures. Studies have provided evidence for certain facilitating conditions such as challenging and stressful life events because they increase differentiation through accommodative changes, resulting in greater tolerance for uncertainty, and less projection tendencies and self-centeredness. Positive experiences may also facilitate wisdom by fostering integration and coherence. However, cultural values, particularly conservation and openness, may moderate these experiences for older adults. In a sample of middle-aged to older community dwelling European American adults (n = 97), results suggested that experiencing a macrosocial event as a negative experience, and spiritual/existential as a positive experience, interacted with conservation value to predict transcendent wisdom. Among Vietnamese American adults (n = 102), macrosocial event alone was negatively related to transcendent wisdom. These results suggest that not endorsing conservation value as one grows older and experiences different life events is beneficial for wisdom.
Frequency dependence of glass encapsulated electrometer resistors

The frequency dependence of the resistance of commercial 1-1000 G/spl Omega/ electrometer resistors has been measured from 30 Hz to 30 kHz. When scaled appropriately, the data for devices of similar geometry fall on a single curve, indicating that the frequency dependence is due to distributed capacitance, rather than to frequency dependence of the resistivity. The results are important for understanding noise performance when these devices are used as gate bias resistors in low-noise junction field effect transistor circuits.
The Polar Summer Tropopause Inversion Layer

Temperature profiles in polar latitudes during summer reveal a strong and persistent inversion layer associated with the polar summertropopause. This inversion layer is characterized by a temperature increase of ;8 K in the first 2‐3 km above the tropopause and is observed throughout summer polar latitudes in both hemispheres. Radiosonde and GPS radio occultation temperature observations are used to document characteristics of the inversion layer, including its seasonal variability and modulation by synoptic meteorological systems (cyclones and anticyclones). Previous analyses have suggested a radiative mechanism for formation and maintenance of tropopause inversions, related to water vapor and ozone near the tropopause. Fixed dynamical heating (FDH) calculations are used herein to investigate this behavior in polar regions, based on observed seasonally varying profiles of water vapor (from satellite measurements) and ozone (from ozonesondes). Water vapor exhibits a strong seasonal cycle throughout the troposphere and lowest stratosphere, with a pronounced summer maximum, which is primarily a result of the seasonally varying tropospheric temperatures. The FDH calculations suggest that enhanced summer water vapor leads to strong radiative cooling in a narrow layer near the tropopause, so that the radiative influence of water vapor provides a primary mechanism for the summer inversion layer.
Men Seek Social Standing, Women Seek Companionship Sex Differences in Deriving Self-Worth From Relationships

Do men base their self-worth on relationships less than do women? In an assessment of lay beliefs, men and women alike indicated that men are less reliant on relationships as a source of self-worth than are women (Study 1). Yet relationships may make a different important contribution to the self-esteem of men. Men reported basing their self-esteem on their own relationship status (whether or not they were in a relationship) more than did women, and this link was statistically mediated by the perceived importance of relationships as a source of social standing (Studies 1 and 2). Finally, when relationship status was threatened, men displayed increased social-standing concerns, whereas women displayed increased interdependence concerns (Study 3). Together, these findings demonstrate that both men and women rely on relationships for self-worth, but that they derive self-esteem from relationships in different ways.
The majority of dorsal spinal cord gastrin releasing peptide is synthesized locally whereas neuromedin B is highly expressed in pain- and itch-sensing somatosensory neurons

Itch is one of the major somatosensory modalities. Some recent findings have proposed that gastrin releasing peptide (Grp) is expressed in a subset of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons and functions as a selective neurotransmitter for transferring itch information to spinal cord interneurons. However, expression data from public databases and earlier literatures indicate that Grp mRNA is only detected in dorsal spinal cord (dSC) whereas its family member neuromedin B (Nmb) is highly expressed in DRG neurons. These contradictory results argue that a thorough characterization of the expression of Grp and Nmb is warranted. Grp mRNA is highly expressed in dSC but is barely detectable in DRGs of juvenile and adult mice. Anti-bombesin serum specifically recognizes Grp but not Nmb. Grp is present in a small number of small-diameter DRG neurons and in abundance in layers I and II of the spinal cord. The reduction of dSC Grp after dorsal root rhizotomy is significantly different from those of DRG derived markers but similar to that of a spinal cord neuronal marker. Double fluorescent in situ of Nmb and other molecular markers indicate that Nmb is highly and selectively expressed in nociceptive and itch-sensitive DRG neurons. The majority of dSC Grp is synthesized locally in dorsal spinal cord neurons. On the other hand, Nmb is highly expressed in pain- and itch-sensing DRG neurons. Our findings provide direct anatomic evidence that Grp could function locally in the dorsal spinal cord in addition to its roles in DRG neurons and that Nmb has potential roles in nociceptive and itch-sensitive neurons. These results will improve our understanding about roles of Grp and Nmb in mediating itch sensation.
A study of the modified bell and krantz method as applied to the assay of the three U. S. P. digitalis glycosides

A study of the Bell and Krantz method using tetraethylammonium hydroxide as the base for the picrate reagent, and applying it to the assay of the three U. S. P. digitalis glycosides, yields encouraging results. By reading the optical density at 495 mμ on a Beckman Quartz Spectrophotometer, instead of at 525 mμ, the sensitivity of the method is greatly increased. The three glycosides do not produce the same amount of color with respect to one another on a molar basis. A decreae in the molar extinction coefficient was noted with increase in molecular weight. Accuracy of the method is claimed to be within ≠ 2 per cent.
Community-acquired meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: an emerging threat.

Summary Community-acquired meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is becoming an important public-health problem. New strains of S aureus displaying unique combinations of virulence factors and resistance traits have been associated with high morbidity and mortality in the community. Outbreaks of epidemic furunculosis and cases of severe invasive pulmonary infections in young, otherwise healthy people have been particularly noteworthy. We review the characteristics of these new strains of community-acquired MRSA that have contributed to their pathogenicity and discuss new approaches to the diagnosis and management of suspected and confirmed community-acquired MRSA infections.
Can ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers be detrimental in CKD patients

Current epidemiological data from the USA, Europe, Asia and the Indian subcontinent, Africa, the Far East, South America, the Middle East and Eastern Europe all point to the increasing incidence of renal failure encompassing acute kidney injury (AKI), chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). While the explanations for these worldwide epidemics remain speculative, it must be acknowledged that these increases in AKI, CKD and ESRD, happening worldwide, have occurred despite the universal application of strategies of renoprotection over the last 2 decades, more especially the widespread use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). We note that many of the published large renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) blockade randomized controlled trials, upon which current evidence-based practice for the increasing use of ACEIs and ARBs for renoprotection derived from, have strong deficiencies that have been highlighted over the years. From reports in the literature, there is an increasing association of exacerbations of renal failure with ACEIs and ARBs, more so in the older hypertensive patient, >65 years old. The biological plausibility for ACEI and ARB to protect the kidneys against a background of potential multiple pathogenetic pathways to account for CKD progression appears to be not very defensible. We reviewed the literature along these lines and submit that ACEIs and ARBs often cause unrecognized significant worsening renal failure in CKD patients, sometimes irreversible, and that more caution is required regarding their use, especially in the older hypertensive patients, with likely ischemic hypertensive nephropathy. Given the increasing association of concomitant RAAS blockade with worsening renal failure following exposure to iodinated contrast, during acute illness, in the perioperative period and following lower bowel preparations prior to colonoscopy, we submit that, preferably, ACEIs and ARBs be withheld for 2-4 days prior to or during these clinical scenarios. This represents the concept of renoprevention.
A syndrome of female pseudohermaphrodism, hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, and multicystic ovaries associated with missense mutations in the gene encoding aromatase (P450arom).

We report the features of a new syndrome of aromatase deficiency due to molecular defects in the CYP19 (P450arom) gene in a 46,XX female. At birth, the patient presented with a nonadrenal form of female pseudohermaphrodism. At 17 months of age, laparotomy revealed normal female internal genital structures; the histological appearance of the ovaries was normal. FSH concentrations were markedly elevated at 9.4 ng/mL LER 869, and estrone and estradiol levels were undetectable (< 37 pmol/L). By 14 yr of age, she had failed to exhibit breast development. The clitoris had enlarged to 4 x 2 cm, and pubic hair was Tanner stage IV. The plasma concentration of testosterone was elevated at 3294 pmol/L, as was androstenedione at 9951 pmol/L. Plasma estradiol levels were below 37 pmol/L. ACTH and dexamethasone tests indicated a nonadrenal source of testosterone and androstenedione. Plasma gonadotropin levels were in the castrate range. Pelvic sonography and magnetic resonance imaging showed multiple 4- to 6-cm ovarian...
Pituitary function in patients with normal pressure hydrocephalus before and after neurosurgical correction.

Introduction: Little is known about pituitary function in patients with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). This study evaluated pituitary function in a large series of patients awaiting neurosurgical correction for NPH. We also sought to ascertain whether surgical correction of hydrocephalus would result in improvement of any noted pituitary dysfunction. Methods: Patients with NPH referred for neurosurgical evaluation between February 2010 and January 2011 were eligible for recruitment. Pituitary endocrine evaluation including serum prolactin, free thyroid hormone, TSH, IGF-I, FSH, LH, estradiol, testosterone, cortisol, and ACTH was preformed at baseline and 1 and 3 months after surgery. Results: Of the 63 patients referred for possible NPH, 32 met study criteria, 20 could provide informed consent, and laboratory evaluation was obtainable in 16. The mean age of these patients was 62 ± 14 yr, and 75% were men. The overall incidence of NPH-associated pituitary dysfunction was 31% (five of 16 patients) at ...