cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Intracellular acidification and ADP enhance nicorandil induction of ATP sensitive potassium channel current in cardiomyocytes

Objective: Potassium channel openers target ATP sensitive potassium (KATP) channels, and might be beneficial in the treatment of ischaemic cardiac conditions. Ischaemia is associated with an increase in the concentrations of intracellular nucleoside diphosphates and protons, two regulators of KATP channels. Since it is largely unknown whether these factors modulate the action of potassium channel openers, the aim of this study was to define the effects of ADP and intracellular acidification on KATP channel activation by nicorandil, a potassium channel opener currently in clinical use. Methods: To measure ionic currents, the whole cell patch clamp technique was employed in guinea pig single ventricular myocytes. Induction of KATP channel current by pinacidil, a potassium channel opener chemically unrelated to nicorandil, was used for comparison. Results: Nicorandil (300 (μM) and pinacidil (100 μM) induced a time independent K+ current, which was inhibited by glibenclamide (6 μM), a selective blocker of KATP channels. ADP in the pipette solution was required for the nicorandil induced activation of KATP channels when the pH of the pipette solution was 7.2. In the absence of ADP, lowering the pH of the pipette solution to 6.5 was necessary for nicorandil to induce KATP channel current. For pinacidil to induce KATPchannel current neither the addition of intracellular ADP nor acidification was required. Conclusions: Nicorandil may activate KATP channel current more effectively in conditions associated with a change in intracellular proton and ADP concentrations such as cardiac ischaemia. Cardiovascular Research 1994; 28 :831-835
The effects of general‐case training and behavioral skills training on the generalization of parents' use of discrete‐trial teaching, child correct responses, and child maladaptive behavior

One concern with training discrete-trial teaching (DTT) is the generalization of teaching skills. This study employed behavioral skills and general-case training to train three parents to conduct DTT. A multiple-baseline-across-participants-experimental design assessed the effects of parent training on the generalization of parents' DTT to non-trained programs and on child behavior. Following training, generalization of parent DTT skills occurred, but the effects on child behavior were variable. Implications of programming for generalization and the effects of parent training on child performance are discussed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Parathyroid hormone is not involved in 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D regulation of 25-hydroxyvitamin D metabolism in vivo☆

Abstract 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 administration to vitamin D-deficient rats suppresses accumulation of 1,25-dihydroxy-[3α-3H]vitamin D3 and stimulates accumulation of 24,25-dihydroxy-[3α-33H]vitamin D3 from 25-hydroxy-[3α-3H]vitamin D3 equally well in the presence and absence of parathyroid glands. These results demonstrate that this regulatory action is not mediated by the parathyroid glands and support conclusions from in vitro studies that this represents a direct action of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3.
Designing MyPyramid for Kids Materials to Help Children Eat Right, Exercise, Have Fun

As part of an overall effort to address obesity among elementary schoolaged children, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) developed MyPyramid for Kids (Figure 1), a childfriendly adaptation of the MyPyramid Food Guidance System. MyPyramid for Kids is designed to help children 6-11 years old understand and follow the dietary guidance of the MyPyramid Food Guidance System. Materials developed include the MyPyramid for Kids graphic with the child-tested tagline, “Eat Right. Exercise. Have Fun.”; classroom materials; and an interactive computer game.
Synthesis and characterization of multiblock copolymers based on hydrophilic disulfonated poly(arylene ether sulfone) and hydrophobic partially fluorinated poly(arylene ether ketone) for fuel cell applications

Sulfonated fluorinated multiblock copolymers based on high performance polymers were synthesized and evaluated for use as proton exchange membranes (PEMs). The multiblock copolymers consist of fully disulfonated poly(arylene ether sulfone) and partially fluorinated poly(arylene ether ketone) as hydrophilic and hydrophobic segments, respectively. Synthesis of the multiblock copolymers was achieved by a condensation coupling reaction between controlled molecular weight hydrophilic and hydrophobic oligomers. The coupling reaction could be conducted at relatively low temperatures (e.g., 105 °C) by utilizing highly reactive hexafluorobenzene (HFB) as a linkage group. The low coupling reaction temperature could prevent a possible trans-etherification, which can randomize the hydrophilic-hydrophobic sequences. Tough ductile membranes were prepared by solution casting and their membrane properties were evaluated. With similar ion exchange capacities (IECs), proton conductivity and water uptake were strongly influenced by the hydrophilic and hydrophobic block sequence lengths. Conductivity and water uptake increased with increasing block length by developing nanophase separated morphologies. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) experiments revealed that the connectivity of the hydrophilic segments was enhanced by increasing the block length. The systematic synthesis and characterization of the copolymers are reported. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 48: 214–222, 2010
Frequency dependent electrical properties of dunite as functions of temperature and oxygen fugacity

Using impedance spectroscopy, we have measured the electrical properties of two dunites and a single crystal olivine sample from 1000 to 1200° C as a function of oxygen fugacity (fo2). Two conduction mechanisms with resistances that add in series are observed for the dunites corresponding to grain interior and grain boundary conduction mechanisms. The conductivities for each mechanism were determined by analyzing the data using a complex nonlinear least squares fitting routine and the equivalent circuit approach. The grain interiors display a conductivity dependent on fo2 to the 1/5.5–1/7 power, consistent with other determinations, and interpreted as indicating small polaron transport (FeMg·). The grain boundaries demonstrate a weaker fo2 dependence that is dependent on temperature and material. Under certain conditions the fo2 dependence of the grain boundary conductivity is negative. This result indicates that oxygen ion transport is probably not the dominant grain boundary charge transport mechanism; however, an unequivocal determination of the grain boundary mechanism has not been achieved. In some dunites the grain boundaries are more conductive than the grain interiors; in other dunites they are more resistive than grain interiors. The grain boundaries do not enhance the total conductivity of any of the materials of this study but are the controlling mechanism in some instances. Measurement of the complex electrical response at frequencies as low as 10-4 Hz is required to determine the role of grain boundaries on the overall electrical properties of polycrystalline dunite.
Changing pattern of morbidity and mortality in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH): Review of cases over 7 years (1990-96). † 350

Changing pattern of morbidity and mortality in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH): Review of cases over 7 years (1990-96). † 350
Electrostatic couplings in OmpA ion-channel gating suggest a mechanism for pore opening

The molecular forces that drive structural transitions between the open and closed states of channels and transporters are not well understood. The gate of the OmpA channel is formed by the central Glu52-Arg138 salt bridge, which can open to form alternate ion pairs with Lys82 and Glu128. To gain deeper insight into the channel-opening mechanism, we measured interaction energies between the relevant side chains by double-mutant cycle analysis and correlated these with the channel activities of corresponding point mutants. The closed central salt bridge has a strong interaction energy of −5.6 kcal mol−1, which can be broken by forming the open-state salt bridge Glu52-Lys82 (ΔΔGInter = −3.5 kcal mol−1) and a weak interaction between Arg138 and Glu128 (ΔΔGInter = −0.6 kcal mol−1). A covalent disulfide bond in place of the central salt bridge completely blocks the channel. Growth assays indicate that this gating mechanism could physiologically contribute to the osmoprotection of Escherichia coli cells from environmental stress.
TERAHERTZ-BASED DETECTORS USING COLD-ATOM OPTICS

In this paper we explore the design of microwave-based structures that can enhance the interaction of electromagnetic fields with cold-atom ensembles, leading to novel sensing modalities based on the quantum-mechanical behavior of these systems. In particular, we discuss electromagnetically-induced transparency in a single uncondensed cold-atom cloud, and a two-cloud version of a SQUID, where the clouds are BEC's and take the place of the weakly coupled superconductors. These systems are both promising candidates for use in the high-precision detection of chemical contaminants.
A retrospective review of long anterior fusions to the sacrum.

Abstract Background context In the setting of tumor, infection, or trauma, a corpectomy of the L5 vertebral body may be necessary. However, the space has an irregular trapezoidal shape, and the failure to account for this may lead to improper fitting of the titanium cages or the allograft struts when performing a reconstruction. Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate the failure rate of implants used to reconstruct the anterior lumbar spine when an L5 corpectomy has been performed. Methods A retrospective review of the medical records and radiographs of 19 consecutive patients undergoing an L5 corpectomy and anterior spinal fusion was performed. The radiographs were reviewed for implant failure and successful fusions. Results Cases included osteomyelitis (13), fractures (4), and tumor (2). Anterior reconstruction was performed with a straight cylindrical titanium cage in six cases, allograft in six cases, iliac crest bone graft (ICBG) in two cases, and cages with lordosis built into the cage or end plates in five cases. In the six straight cylindrical titanium cages, four cases had displaced anteriorly, necessitating revision surgery. In the other two cases, both had poor fixation to the sacrum and developed nonunions. In the six reconstructed with allograft, all three fibular struts developed nonunions. In the three reconstructed with humeral or femoral allograft, all patients formed a solid fusion. In the patients reconstructed with ICBG, one formed a nonunion, whereas the other one formed a solid fusion. In the cages with lordosis built into the cage or end plates, all five developed solid fusions. Conclusions A corpectomy of L5 resulting in an irregular trapezoidal shape must be accounted for when performing the reconstruction. Use of straight cylindrical cages or allograft with small footprints may lead to an increased rate of failure. When performing the reconstruction, adding approximately 20° to 30° of lordosis to the construct may create a better fit and increase stability and result in an improved fusion rate. If using allograft, using a larger graft with greater end plate contact may also improve fusion rates.
Resolution and Count Rate Characteristics of the Gated Integrator Nuclear Amplifier

A nuclear pulse amplifier using a time-variant filter with a trapezoidal weighting function was theoretically analyzed for optimum performance in a high count rate environment. Analytical tools were developed for the complete characterization of the noise performance of the amplifier. The amplifier was implemented and experimentally evaluated at high count rates. The Na22 line had a peak shift and line broadening no more than 1 part per 1000 when the count rate was varied from a low rate of 5000 cps to a very high rate at 150,000 cps.
Bending-cantilever method for the study of moisture swelling in polymers

Self-induced bending of a bilayer strip is shown to be a simple but sensitive method for the study of water absorption and swelling in polymers. Expressions for both the time-dependent and equilibrium curvature of the strip have been derived, enabling both diffusional and dilatational parameters to be extracted from experimental data. To illustrate the technique, it is shown that a vacuum-dried epoxy swells linearly with water content, at a rate of 0.93% in volume per weight percent of water. Desorption into vacuum has been observed under diffusion-controlled conditions and the diffusion coefficient for water in the epoxy found to be 2.5 × 10-9 cm2/s at 295 K.
Modification of Infiltration Rates in an Organic‐Amended Irrigated

Slow water infiltration in some California soils results in considerable irrigation water loss through increased runofff and evaporation. This 25-mo study was conducted to evaluate the effects of different organic amendments on soil physical parameters and water filtration rates on an irrigated soil. Incorporation of three loadings (25 Mg ha −1 each) of poultry manure, saewage sludge, barley straw (Hordeum vulgare L.), and alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) to an Arlington soil (coarse-loamy, mixed, thermic Haplic Durixeralf) for 2 yr increased soil respiration rates (139-290%), soil aggregate stability (22-59%), organic C content (13-84%), soil saccharide content (25-41%), soil moisture content (3-25%), and decreased soil bulk density (7-11%) (...)
Numerical simulation and analysis of transport air conditioning system integrated with passenger compartment

Abstract Transport air conditioning (AC) systems are the very important energy to provide comfort for passenger compartment in metro car or railway car. The determination of cooling load and understanding of their variations are critical for the efficient design of the transport air conditioning system. In this paper, the variation of cooling load in a compartment of metro car or railway car is numerically investigated. Ambient condition, inside condition, car speed, fresh air volume, solar time and number of passengers are taken into consideration as key factors for the numerical simulation and analysis. The investigation is first performed on a compartment without air conditioning unit. Then the entire system which includes air conditioning unit and the compartment are studied. A description and validation of component and system model of air conditioning unit is also given so that the numerical discussion and analysis is more trustable and more valuable.
The link between the use of crack cocaine and the sexually transmitted diseases of a clinic population. A comparison of adolescents with adults

Background and objectives To determine whether personal and/or a partner's use of crack cocaine is associated with the diagnosis of early syphilis or gonorrhea independent of high-risk sex behaviors, and to determine whether the relationships between crack cocaine and associated sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are similar for adolescents and adults. Study design A cross-sectional behavioral survey of hetero-sexual males and females attending public STD clinics in three cities. Logistic regression was used to identify risk behavior patterns associated with each STD compared with no STD. Results Multivariate analysis revealed that men who were high on drugs, including crack cocaine, before or during sex were more likely to be diagnosed with syphilis (Odds Ratio [OR] = 1.49; Confidence Intervals [CI] = 1.06, 2.13). Males more likely to be diagnosed with gonorrhea were younger (OR = 0.94; CI = 0.92, 0.96), had sex with a crack cocaine user (OR = 1.99; CI = 1.36, 2.91), did not use condoms last time they had sex with a nonmain partner (OR = 1.59; CI = 1.09, 2.13), and did not have sex with an intravenous drug user (OR = 0.45; CI = 0.22, 0.95). For women, there were no independent risk factor for syphilis but younger age was a risk factor for gonorrhea (OR = 0.95; CI = 0.91, 0.99). The associations between crack cocaine and syphilis and gonorrhea in men and between crack cocaine and syphilis in women were not significant among adolescents in this study. Conclusion The results of this study highlight the differences in the crack cocaine-related behaviors of adults and adolescents at risk for gonorrhea and syphilis. The nature of these differences support the use of distinct intervention strategies for each STD and for adolescents and adults.
What Changes in Cognitive Therapy for Depression? An Examination of Cognitive Therapy Skills and Maladaptive Beliefs

This study examined effortful cognitive skills and underlying maladaptive beliefs among patients treated with cognitive therapy (CT) for depression. Depressed patients (n=44) completed cognitive measures before and after 16 weeks of CT. Measures included an assessment of CT skills (Ways of Responding Scale; WOR), an implicit test of maladaptive beliefs (Implicit Association Test; IAT), and a self-report questionnaire of maladaptive beliefs (Dysfunctional Attitude Scale; DAS). A matched sample of never-depressed participants (n=44) also completed study measures. Prior to treatment, depressed patients endorsed significantly more undesirable cognitions on the WOR, IAT, and DAS compared with never-depressed participants. Patients displayed improvement on the WOR and DAS over the course of treatment, but showed no change on the IAT. Additionally, improvements on the WOR and DAS were each related to greater reductions in depressive symptoms. Results suggest that the degree of symptom reduction among patients participating in CT is related to changes in patients' acquisition of coping skills requiring deliberate efforts and reflective thought, but not related to reduced endorsement of implicitly assessed maladaptive beliefs.
Stimulatory Effect of Endogenous Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP-1) Overexpression on Type IV Collagen and Laminin Gene Expression in Rat Mammary Carcinoma Cells

We recently reported enhanced tumor growth and stimulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in rat mammary carcinoma cells transfected with a human tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 (hTIMP-1) cDNA (1). In the present study, we examined if the composition of the stroma was altered in the tumors with the highest hTIMP-1 production. Immunohistological examination revealed increased amounts of the basement membrane (BM) components, type IV collagen and laminin, in the hTIMP-1 overexpressing tumors compared to that of the control. In vitro studies also revealed upregulation of type IV collagen and laminin gene expression associated with the hTIMP-1 overexpression. Endogenous RNA levels of rat TIMP-1 and the rat matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), MMP-2, MMP-3, and MMP-9, were not affected by the hTIMP-1 transfection, suggesting that the increase in BM deposition was not a result of decreased collagenolytic activity. This is the first report to show an association between overexpression of TIMP-1 and increased tumor BM matrix production through stimulation of type IV collagen and laminin gene expression.
SO-CALLED “TEMPORAL” EPILEPSY THE CLINICAL AND INTER-SEIZURE E. E.G. FINDINGS*

Summary Reports of the electroencephalographic records of more than 1,500 patients were examined and selection made of 183 records that displayed some forms of E. E. G. abnormality in the tracing from over a temporal lobe. In 83 per cent this was unilateral. Abnormality of the anterior temporal lead prdoninated in the unilateral group ar, d mid-temporal abnorlnality in the bilateral group. Spike discharges formed 47 per cent; sharp waves 31 per cent; and slow or asymmetric activity 22 per cent of the total E. E. G. abnormalities. Slow activity predominated in the records of patients with pssonality and mental disorders; whereas, spike discharges predominated if these conditions were absent. Significant correlation between types of E. E.G. abnormality and the etiology or the type of clinical seizure was not observed. In comparison with a much larger and unselected series of patients, the seizures of an urdue proportion of the temporal group were of acquired rather than of genetic origin, and seizures were predominantly psychomotor rather than grand mal. Hence, the present study helps to emphasize the loose interrelationship between focal dysrhythmia of the temporal lobe, and an organic disease of the brain and psychomotor epilepsy.
Dispersion of a moving salt‐water boundary advancing through saturated sand

When salt water displaces fresh water in sand the boundary between the two liquid phases becomes diffuse after a short period of flow. The dispersion of salt may occur at a much greater rate than can be expected by ion diffusion. The effect has been attributed to a mechanism referred to here as hydrodynamic dispersion, a general phenomenon arising from the fact that the velocity of the moving stream varies from point to point in the porous system. The mathematical treatment of the problem is based upon a statistical theory developed by Scheidegger. Equations have been derived here for the dispersion of salt water injected in the stream. The theory has been tested by displacing pure water with salt water in a column of saturated sand and determining the concentration of effluent as a function of time. The measured concentrations vary with time in approximately the manner predicted by theory.
Holding a manual response sequence in memory can disrupt vocal responses that share semantic features with the manual response

Holding an action plan in memory for later execution can delay execution of another action if the actions share a similar (compatible) feature. This compatibility interference (CI) occurs for actions that share the same response modality (e.g., manual response). We investigated whether CI can generalize to actions that utilize different response modalities (manual and vocal). In three experiments, participants planned and withheld a sequence of key-presses with the left- or right-hand based on the visual identity of the first stimulus, and then immediately executed a speeded, vocal response (‘left’ or ‘right’) to a second visual stimulus. The vocal response was based on discriminating stimulus color (Experiment 1), reading a written word (Experiment 2), or reporting the antonym of a written word (Experiment 3). Results showed that CI occurred when the manual response hand (e.g., left) was compatible with the identity of the vocal response (e.g., ‘left’) in Experiment 1 and 3, but not in Experiment 2. This suggests that partial overlap of semantic codes is sufficient to obtain CI unless the intervening action can be accessed automatically (Experiment 2). These findings are consistent with the code occupation hypothesis and the general framework of the theory of event coding (Behav Brain Sci 24:849–878, 2001a; Behav Brain Sci 24:910–937, 2001b).
Quasi-Optical Millimeter Waveguides and Components

In this paper we review a number of quasi-optical waveguide structures and discuss their application to millimeter-wave integrated circuits. Some novel designs for dielectric waveguides and passive components using these waveguides are described. A summary of the results of theoretical and experimental studies of these waveguides and circuits is presented.
Factors affecting foreign R&D location decisions: management and host policy implications

Multinational corporations (MNCs) are continuing to internationalise their R&D activities, locating innovatory capacity abroad. The location of these activities is of vital importance to technology managers and potential host countries. Using country-level data from a variety of governmental sources, the authors empirically address the affect of multiple factors potentially motivating investment by US MNCs in foreign R&D activities. The current study complements and extends existing studies by identifying new factors, operationalising others in a new way and more narrowly defining previously studied variables, highlighting the sensitivity of findings to variable definitions. The results indicate that firms locate foreign R&D capabilities in the primary markets for the products produced by their overseas affiliate, that they value the availability of highly educated graduates in the sciences and engineering fields for staffing their overseas operations and that cost is not a significant factor driving the location decision. Management and host government policy implications are discussed.
Effects of neon matrix environment on three vibronic emission systems of PbS

Abstract Laser sources have been used to explore three emission band systems of the PbS molecule in solid neon matrices. The D → X emission (origin near 29 630 cm −1 ), excited biphotonically, consists of broad bands originating from V ′ = 0. With laser excitation tuned into the region of the band system origin near 21 860 cm −1 , the B → X system shows emission narrowing of inhomogeneously broadened absorption. Hot luminescence from the B state is also reported. In the a → X system near 14 625 cm −1 the intensities of phonon sidebands on the high-frequency side of the zero-phonon lines are found to be very sensitive to laser power. Lifetimes of the a , A , and B states of PbS in solid argon have been measured as 260, 0.95, and 1.8 μsec.
Programming cryptographic protocols

Cryptographic protocols are useful for trust engineering in distributed transactions. Transactions require specific degrees of confidentiality and agreement between the principals engaging in it. Moreover, trust management assertions may be attached to protocol actions, constraining the behavior of a principal to be compatible with its own trust policy. We embody these ideas in a cryptographic protocol programming language cppl at the Dolev-Yao level of abstraction. A strand space semantics for cppl shaped our compiler development, and allows a protocol designer to prove that a protocol is sound.
Thymus-Marrow Cell Combinations. Synergism in Antibody Production.∗:

SummarySuspensions containing normal thymus, spleen, or marrow cells were injected into irradiated syngeneic mice which were subsequently given antigen. Normal spleen cells produced discrete areas ...
Cryptic Protein Priming Sites in Two Different Domains of Duck Hepatitis B Virus Reverse Transcriptase for Initiating DNA Synthesis In vitro

Initiation of reverse transcription in hepadnaviruses is accomplished by a unique protein-priming mechanism whereby a specific Y residue in the terminal protein (TP) domain of the viral reverse transcriptase (RT) acts as a primer to initiate DNA synthesis, which is carried out by the RT domain of the same protein. When separate TP and RT domains from the duck hepatitis B virus (DHBV) RT protein were tested in a trans-complementation assay in vitro, the RT domain could also serve, unexpectedly, as a protein primer for DNA synthesis, as could a TP mutant lacking the authentic primer Y (Y96) residue. Priming at these other, so-called cryptic, priming sites in both the RT and TP domains shared the same requirements as those at Y96. A mini RT protein with both the TP and RT domains linked in cis, as well as the full-length RT protein, could also initiate DNA synthesis using cryptic priming sites. The cryptic priming site(s) in TP was found to be S/T, while those in the RT domain were Y and S/T. As with the authentic TP Y96 priming site, the cryptic priming sites in the TP and RT domains could support DNA polymerization subsequent to the initial covalent linkage of the first nucleotide to the priming amino acid residue. These results provide new insights into the complex mechanisms of protein priming in hepadnaviruses, including the selection of the primer residue and the interactions between the TP and RT domains that is essential for protein priming.
Design and Testing of an Integrated Circuit for Multi-Electrode Neural Recording

The authors have developed a single-chip neural recording system with wireless power delivery and telemetry. The 0.5-mum CMOS IC is designed to be bonded to the back of a 100-channel Utah electrode array. A pad near each amplifier allows connection of the chip to the MEMS electrode array. The complete integrated neural interface receives power wirelessly through a 2.64-MHz inductive link. A clock, regulated supply, and commands are derived from the power signal .The neural amplifiers each have a gain of 60 dB. A 10-bit charge-redistribution ADC is used to digitize the signal from one amplifier selected with an analog MUX. Digitizing all channels simultaneously would generate prohibitively high data rates; therefore, the authors perform data reduction by incorporating one-bit "spike detectors" into each amplifier. Neural data is transmitted off chip using an integrated 433-MHz FSK transmitter. The chip measures 4.7 times 5.9 mm and consumes 13.5 mW of power
Phase I/II trial of gemcitabine plus cyclophosphamide in patients with metastatic breast carcinoma previously treated with taxanes

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of infusional gemcitabine given in conjunction with intravenous (I.V.) cyclophosphamide, and to determine whether the regimen produced a response rate of at least 40% in patients with metastatic breast cancer who have been previously treated with taxanes. Patients received cyclophosphamide (600 mg/m 2 ) I.V. followed immediately by gemcitabine (100, 150, or 200 mg/m 2 ) given as a 24-hour infusion (every 3 weeks) using an accelerated doseescalation schema. Dose-limiting toxicity was defined as a neutrophil nadir 2 . Dose-limiting toxicities at 200 mg/m 2 included neutropenia and mucositis. One patient with lymphangitic lung metastases had a partial response (8%; 95% confidence intervals: 0%, 23%). This patient developed grade 4 transaminase and total bilirubin elevation that occurred after the sixth cycle of therapy. The study was terminated due to an insufficient number of responses. The MTD of gemcitabine given as a 24-hour infusion is 150 mg/m 2 when used in conjunction with cyclophosphamide (600 mg/m 2 ) every 3 weeks. This regimen is not likely to produce more than a 40% response rate in patients with metastatic breast cancer previously treated with taxanes.
Society's aggression level as a predictor of traffic fatality rate

This research investigated the relationship of violence/aggression and other societal variables to traffic accidents. In the first of two studies, multiple regression was applied to 1977 data from each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia. Traffic fatalities per registered vehicle was the dependent variable. The independent variables were homicide rate, suicide rate, fatality rate from other causes, unemployment rate, personal income, density of physicians, alcohol consumption, motor vehicles per capita, road mileage per vehicle, sex and age distribution of drivers, and attained education. The main finding was that the homicide rate (but not the suicide rate) predicted the traffic fatality rate; additional significant predictors were the proportion of young drivers and the fatality rate from non-motor-vehicle accidents. The two primary predictors (homicides and young drivers) accounted for 64 % of the variance of traffic fatalities. In the second study, validation was performed by using the 1977 regression coefficients to estimate 1978 traffic fatalities. The results indicate that when the 1977 regression coefficients were applied to the 1978 values for homicides and young drivers, they accounted for 49 % of the variance of the 1978 traffic fatalities. The findings are discussed in terms of how society's violence/aggression may contribute to traffic accidents.
Optimization over a finite number of system designs with one-stage sampling and multiple comparisons with the best

Multiple comparisons with the best, which is applicable to single-stage experiments, is introduced as a method for choosing the best of a finite number of system designs. Examples are given.
Uterus Didelphys and Dicavitary Twin Pregnancy

Uterus didelphys, also known as a duplicated uterus, is an embryological abnormality resulting from the failure of fusion of the Mullerian ducts, causing full uterine development to erroneously occur bilaterally. The occurrence of uterus didelphys is very low in the general population and often predisposes women to a variety of gynecological difficulties. There appears to be a high association with obstetrical complications, such as spontaneous abortion, preterm labor, cervical incompetence, and malpresentation. Uterus didelphys is also associated with urinary tract abnormalities. Presented is a case of a woman with a didelphys uterus and a twin pregnancy.
The Effect of School Resources on Student Achievement

A universe of education production function studies was assembled in order to utilize meta-analytic methods to assess the direction and magnitude of the relations between a variety of school inputs and student achievement. The 60 primary research studies aggregated data at the level of school districts or smaller units and either controlled for socioeconomic characteristics or were longitudinal in design. The analysis found that a broad range of resources were positively related to student outcomes, with effect sizes large enough to suggest that moderate increases in spending may be associated with significant increases in achievement. The discussion relates the findings of this study with trends in student achievement from the National Assessment of Educational Progress and changes in social capital over the last two decades.
Urologist Density and County-Level Urologic Cancer Mortality

Purpose The surgical work force distribution at the county level varies widely across the United States, and the impact of differential access on cancer outcomes is unclear. We used urologists as a test case because they are the first care providers for urologic cancers, can easily be identified from available data sources, and are unevenly distributed throughout the country. The goal of this study was to determine the effect of increasing urologist density on local prostate, bladder, and kidney cancer mortality. Patients and Methods Using county-level data from the Area Resource File, US Census, National Cancer Institute, and Centers for Disease Control, regression models were built for prostate, bladder, and kidney cancer mortality, controlling for categorized urologist density, county demographics, socioeconomic factors, and preexisting health care infrastructure. Results For each of the three cancers, there was a statistically significant cancer-specific mortality reduction associated with counties th...
"I know you self-handicapped last exam": gender differences in reactions to self-handicapping.

Past research has shown that self-handicapping involves the trade-off of ability-related attributional benefits for interpersonal costs. Study 1 examined whether perceiver or target sex moderates impressions of self-handicapping targets. Although target sex was not an important factor, female perceivers were consistently more critical of behavioral self-handicappers. Two additional studies replicated this gender difference with variations of the handicap. Study 3 examined the motives inferred by perceivers and found that women not only view self-handicappers as more unmotivated but also report greater suspicion of self-handicapping motives; furthermore, these differences in perceived motives mediated sex differences in reactions to self-handicappers. Implications for the effectiveness of self-handicapping as an impression management strategy are discussed.
Diffusion Characteristics of Upwind Schemes on Unstructured Triangulations

The diffusive characteristics of two upwind schemes, multi-dimensional fluctuation splitting and dimensionally-split finite volume, are compared for scalar advection-diffusion problems. Algorithms for the two schemes are developed for node-based data representation on median-dual meshes associated with unstructured triangulations in two spatial dimensions. Four model equations are considered: linear advection, non-linear advection, diffusion, and advection-diffusion. Modular coding is employed to isolate the effects of the two approaches for upwind flux evaluation, allowing for head-to-head accuracy and efficiency comparisons. Both the stability of compressive limiters and the amount of artificial diffusion generated by the schemes is found to be grid-orientation dependent, with the fluctuation splitting scheme producing less artificial diffusion than the dimensionally-split finite volume scheme. Convergence rates are compared for the combined advection-diffusion problem, with a speedup of 2-3 seen for fluctuation splitting versus finite volume when solved on the same mesh. However, accurate solutions to problems with small diffusion coefficients can be achieved on coarser meshes using fluctuation splitting rather than finite volume, so that when comparing convergence rates to reach a given accuracy, fluctuation splitting shows a 20-25 speedup over finite volume.
Secondary and tertiary structure of the A‐state of cytochrome c from resonance Raman spectroscopy

Ferricytochrome c can be converted to the partially folded A-state at pH 2.2 in the presence of 1.5 M NaCl. The structure of the A-state has been studied in comparison with the native and unfolded states, using resonance Raman spectroscopy with visible and ultraviolet excitation wavelengths. Spectra obtained with 200 nm excitation show a decrease in amide II intensity consistent with loss of structure for the 50s and 70s helices. The 230-nm spectra contain information on vibrational modes of the single Trp 59 side chain and the four tyrosine side chains (Tyr 48, 67, 74, and 97). The Trp 59 modes indicate that the side chain remains in a hydrophobic environment but loses its tertiary hydrogen bond and is rotationally disordered. The tyrosine modes Y8b and Y9a show disruption of tertiary hydrogen bonding for the Tyr 48, 67, and 74 side chains. The high-wavenumber region of the 406.7-nm resonance Raman spectrum reveals a mixed spin heme iron atom, which arises from axial coordination to His 18 and a water molecule. The low-frequency spectral region reports on heme distortions and indicates a reduced degree of interaction between the heme and the polypeptide chain. A structural model for the A-state is proposed in which a folded protein subdomain, consisting of the heme and the N-terminal, C-terminal, and 60s helices, is stabilized through nonbonding interactions between helices and with the heme.
A landmark contribution to poultry science—Prophylactic control of coccidiosis in poultry

"Continuous feeding of low concentrations of sulfaquinoxaline for the control of coccidiosis in poultry" by L. C. Grumbles, J. P. Delaplane, and T. C. Higgins [Poult. Sci. (1948) 27:605-608] was the first paper to demonstrate that it was possible to control coccidiosis by the continuous inclusion of a low level of a drug in the feed of chickens. The principle involved (prevention or prophylaxis) has had a profound impact on our ability to grow chickens and turkeys under intensive conditions. Indeed, it is possible that the modern poultry industry could never have developed to its present extent without the advent of drugs used prophylactically to control coccidiosis. One particular insight was that use of a compound in this manner did not necessarily prevent the acquisition of immunity, an important principle that helps explain the continued efficacy of ionophorous antibiotics used today. The significance of this work to the poultry industry and individuals involved in research, whether employed by government, academia, or pharmaceutical companies, cannot be overstated. Economic benefits, in terms of improved productivity, have been demonstrated in numerous studies published in Poultry Science. In addition, the livelihoods of many poultry farmers have been helped by the control of a disease that in the past caused substantial morbidity and mortality in their flocks. The paper is brief and contains no critical science involving novel procedures but has had a profound influence on the health of poultry for the last 6 decades. For this reason, it is nominated as a landmark contribution from the first 100 yr of Poultry Science.
Beyond Clery Act Statistics A Closer Look at College Victimization Based on Self-Report Data

This study examined the relationships among victimization, demographic characteristics, and activity choices in a cross-sectional sample of 479 undergraduate students. In the sample, 74% was female and 65% was Caucasian, with an even distribution of ages ranging from 18 to 22+ years; all participants completed an online survey. Using survey feedback, the study team performed multivariate regression analysis and reported quantity and type of victimization experiences in relation to factors that may contribute to identifying groups at risk for experiencing violence. Findings suggest that gender, grade point average, and membership in student organizations or Greek-letter organizations influence students’ potential for different types of victimization. Furthermore, alcohol use and household income did not have a statistically significant relationship with any victimization types. Finally, rates reported indicate student underreporting and illustrate difficulty implementing the Clery Act. Policy recommendatio...
Chemokine GPCR signaling inhibits β-catenin during zebrafish axis formation.

Embryonic axis formation in vertebrates is initiated by the establishment of the dorsal Nieuwkoop blastula organizer, marked by the nuclear accumulation of maternal b-catenin, a transcriptional effector of canonical Wnt signaling. Known regulators of axis specification include the canonical Wnt pathway components that positively or negatively affect bcatenin. An involvement of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) was hypothesized from experiments implicating G proteins and intracellular calcium in axis formation, but such GPCRs have not been identified. Mobilization of intracellular Ca 2+ stores generates Ca 2+ transients in the superficial blastomeres of zebrafish blastulae when the nuclear accumulation of maternal bcatenin marks the formation of the Nieuwkoop organizer. Moreover, intracellular Ca 2+ downstream of non-canonical Wnt ligands was proposed to inhibit b-catenin and axis formation, but mechanisms remain unclear. Here we report a novel function of Ccr7 GPCR and its chemokine ligand Ccl19.1, previously implicated in chemotaxis and other responses of dendritic cells in mammals, as negative regulators of b-catenin and axis formation in zebrafish. We show that interference with the maternally and ubiquitously expressed zebrafish Ccr7 or Ccl19.1 expands the blastula organizer and the dorsoanterior tissues at the expense of the ventroposterior ones. Conversely, Ccr7 or Ccl19.1 overexpression limits axis formation. Epistatic analyses demonstrate that Ccr7 acts downstream of Ccl19.1 ligand and upstream of b-catenin transcriptional targets. Moreover, Ccl19/Ccr7 signaling reduces the level and nuclear accumulation of maternal b-catenin and its axis-inducing activity and can also inhibit the Gsk3b -insensitive form of b-catenin. Mutational and pharmacologic experiments reveal that Ccr7 functions during axis formation as a GPCR to inhibit b-catenin, likely by promoting Ca 2+ transients throughout the blastula. Our study delineates a novel negative, Gsk3b-independent control mechanism of bcatenin and implicates Ccr7 as a long-hypothesized GPCR regulating vertebrate axis formation.
Vaginal Tampon Model for Toxic Shock Syndrome

The effects of tampon composition, inoculum size, and simulated menses on production of toxic shock syndrome toxin 1 (TSST-1) and toxic shock syndrome (TSS) were evaluated in a rabbit model that simulates tampon use in humans. Three small generic compressed-fiber tampons were successively inserted vaginally (remained in place 4.5 hours x 2; overnight x 1). Tampon no. 1 was inoculated with live TSST-1-positive staphylococci plus 5 mL of saline or simulated menses (defibrinated rabbit blood plus 2.5 g of bovine serum albumin/dL) immediately after insertion; saline or simulated menses alone were used with tampons no. 2 and 3. The vagina was washed after removal of tampon no. 3. TSS-like illness was produced consistently in animals with carboxymethyl cellulose/polyester foam tampons, which supported higher organism counts and greater TSST-1 production in association with subsequent tampons. Cotton and rayon tampons were not associated with as much clinical illness, organism growth, or TSST-1 production. Simulated menses supported toxin production and clinical illness when the inoculum was one-tenth that required for controls. Sham tampon insertion was associated with TSS-like illness in two of 10 rabbits; thus, other factors may promote TSS in the absence of vaginal tampons. This model reliability reproduces menstrual TSS, since one-time vaginal inoculation with TSST-1-positive staphylococci in the presence of blood and certain tampons leads to TSS, and may be useful in evaluating catamenial products and in understanding other factors important in TSST-1 production in vivo and the development of TSS.
Improving Regulation in the Fermilab Main Ring Magnet Power Supply System

In the past two years a number of changes have been made to the Main Ring Magnet Power Supply System to improve current regulation and long term drift. Some of the modifications discussed include new computers, new passive filters, direct analog feedback, a voltage-to-frequency converter for bend bus regulation, and a "smart" Nuclear Magnetic Resonance probe. Among the improvements to be described are the attenuation of power supply ripple by a factor of five and the reduction of long term flattop drift by an order of magnitude.
Perioperative therapy for locally advanced gastroesophageal cancer: current controversies and consensus of care

Gastroesophageal cancer (GEC) remains a challenging problem in oncology. Anatomically, GEC is comprised of distal gastric adenocarcinoma (GC), classically associated with Helicobacter Pylori, while proximal esophagogastric adenocarcinoma (EGJ AC) has increased significantly in incidence over the past years. Despite contrasting etiologies, histologies, and molecular phenotypes of distal and proximal GEC, in many cases perioperative (and metastatic) treatment strategies converge to similar approaches. For patients undergoing curative intent surgery, advances in perioperative chemotherapy and/or chemoradiotherapy, either before and/or after surgery, have demonstrated improved survivals compared to surgery alone. This review focuses on how the ‘boundary’ of the Z-line and/or the anatomical distinction of ‘proximal’ (EGJ) vs. ‘distal’ (GC) cancer has led to diverse inclusion/exclusion criteria for clinical trial enrollment, embodying various combinations of chemotherapy and radiation before and/or after surgery. Supporting evidence of each of these approaches consequently has led to a number of varying practices by geographical region and Institution/Physician, based on differing experience, preference, and clinical circumstance. Adequate direct comparison of these approaches is lacking currently, but data from a number of concerted efforts should be available in the next years to further direct best standards of care. Introduction of biologically targeted agents, namely anti-angiogenics and anti-HER family therapeutics are being evaluated to determine whether further therapeutic gains can be realized over classic cytotoxic chemotherapy alone (with/without radiotherapy). To date, novel molecularly targeted agents have yet to demonstrate benefit in this setting. In the following comprehensive review we will address the intricacies of perioperative treatment of locally advanced GEC, with focus on clinical trials supporting the diverse set of perioperative multidisciplinary approaches.
Fastest in the Pool: The Role of Technological Innovation on Swimming Record Breaks

The ultimate goal of any world-class swimmer is to break a record, and technology enables that accomplishment. Using 40 years of data at the individual, national and international level, we identify the quantitative impact that innovation has had on the number of record breaks. We find small but statistically significant impacts on both the number of breaks and the interval between breaks.