cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The possibility of measuring plaque growth in vivo within 24 hours.

The utility of a planimetric method for measuring in vivo plaque growth on teeth within 24 hours was tested. A reproducible photographic technique was developed. With this technique color slides were made after plaque disclosure with neutral red 0.5% and enlarged up to 25 times natural size for tracing on paper. The percentage of tooth surface covered by plaque was calculated with a planimeter. To obtain a stable and interpretable staining of the plaque three dye applications were applied. The interpretation of the slides was only reproducible when the slides were examined the same day and with the use of a tooth outline. Under these conditions an intra-examiner correlation coefficient of 0.999 was found. Furthermore, it was possible to detect significant differences in rate of plaque growth between two subjects within a time interval of four hours.
A modified technique for the detection of hepatitis B virus-specific DNA polymerase.

Abstract A modified and improved technique for the detection of hepatitis B virus-specific DNA polymerase activity is described. DNA polymerase is released from Dane particles by mixing samples with the detergent Nonidet P-40 and β-mercaptoethanol. After incubation of pretreated samples with a reaction mixture containing tritiated thynudine-methyl-5'-triphosphate ( 3 H-TTP), DNA is precipitated onto a trichloroacetic acid (TCA)-treated paper. Unincorporated 3 H-TTP is then chromatographically eluted with a 5% TCA solution and precipitated counts are determined. A sample is considered positive for DNA polymerase if the incorporated counts are significantly higher than the counts of a group of negative control samples. The modifications include pretreatment of the paper with TCA, Chromatographic elution of unincorporated 3 H-TTP with TCA solution, prefiltration of the sample through bacteriological filters, and use of sound statistical methods for evaluation of data. These changes have led to a highly reproducible, reliable and sensitive technique. The coefficient of variation of negative control samples from various test runs was in the range of 2.7–8.5%. A linear relationship between incorporated counts and DNA polymerase concentration was shown. A total of 419 serum samples from asymptomatic HBsAg-carrying blood donors were tested. Twenty-three (5.5%) of these were found to contain detectable DNA polymerase activity. All 23 samples also contained HBeAg.
Brain activation in offspring of AD cases corresponds to 10q linkage.

Previously, we reported evidence of genetic heterogeneity in late-onset familial Alzheimer's disease, based on sex of affected parent, demonstrating linkage to chromosome 10q, a region identified by other groups and implicated as a quantitative trait loci for Aβ levels, in families with an affected mother. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging and a memory encoding task, we now show differential brain activation patterns among asymptomatic offspring which correspond to the previous linkage finding. These results suggest the possibility that activation patterns may prove useful as a preclinical quantitative trait related to the putative familial late-onset AD gene in this chromosome 10 region. Ann Neurol 2005;58:142–146
Tuberculosis: What We Don’t Know Can, and Does, Hurt Us

Mycobacterium tuberculosis has a penetrance of its host population that would be the envy of most human pathogens. About one-third of the human population would have a positive skin test for the infection and is thus thought to harbor the bacterium. Globally, 22 “high-burden” countries account for more than 80% of the active tuberculosis cases in the world, which shows the inequitable distribution of the disease. There is no effective vaccine against infection, and current drug therapies are fraught with problems, predominantly because of the protracted nature of the treatment and the increasing occurrence of drug resistance. Here we focus on the biology of the host-pathogen interaction and discuss new and evolving strategies for intervention.
Over-expression of Nrf2 diminishes ethanol-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in neural crest cells by inducing an antioxidant response

Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) is a key transcription factor that regulates antioxidant defense in cells. In this study, we investigated whether over-expression of Nrf2 can prevent ethanol-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in neural crest cells (NCCs). We found that transfection of NCCs with pcDNA3.1-Nrf2 resulted in statistically significant increases in the Nrf2 protein levels in control and ethanol-exposed NCCs as compared to the cells transfected with control vector. Luciferase reporter gene assay revealed that over-expression of Nrf2 significantly increased the antioxidant response element (ARE) promoter activity in NCCs. Nrf2 over-expression also increased the protein expression and activities of Nrf2 target antioxidants in NCCs. In addition, over-expression of Nrf2 significantly decreased ROS generation and diminished apoptosis in ethanol-exposed NCCs. These results demonstrate that over-expression of Nrf2 can confer protection against ethanol-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in NCCs by the induction of an antioxidant response.
Multiparameter flow cytometric approach for simultaneous evaluation of T lymphocyte-endothelial cell interactions.

Since vascular endothelium is now recognized as an immunologically active tissue, a better understanding of the relationship between endothelial cells and T lymphocytes is critical to the field of solid organ transplantation. Investigations of endothelial cell-T cell interactions have been limited by methodology. We developed a flow cytometric method allowing for concurrent investigation of multiple cell populations within the same culture that can be applied to these complex interactions. Allogeneic CD8+ or CD4+ T cells labeled with 5,6-carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester (CFSE) were added to a murine endothelial cell monolayer, in which endothelial proliferation was not inhibited by irradiation or addition of a cell cycle-blocking agent. At specific time points, the coculture was analyzed by flow cytometry. T-cell proliferation could be detected by gating on the T-cell subset and evaluating the CFSE fluorescence peaks. By directly analyzing cellular division, we minimized erroneous interpretation of the data encountered by previous studies, which utilized (3)H-thymidine incorporation as sole measure of proliferation. Further subgating on cells that divided facilitated the study of CD8+ lymphocyte activation, differentiation, and acquisition of effector function. By gating on the endothelial cell population, phenotypic changes such as upregulation of surface MHC molecules or immune-mediated apoptosis could be detected. In conclusion, we present a flow cytometric approach that could have important applications for clinical immunological monitoring in allogeneic or xenogeneic transplantation, and might provide the requisite information to better tailor immunotherapy to prevent chronic rejection.
Differential Processing of the Two Subunits of Human Choriogonadotropin (hCG) by Granulosa Cells. I. Preparation and Characterization of Selectively Labeled hCG

The a- and β-subunits of hCG were radioiodinated and recombined with unlabeled complementary subunits. The resultant recombined hormones, selectively labeled in either the a- or β-subunit, were separated from unrecombined subunit by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, extracted with Triton X-100, and characterized by binding analysis. The estimates of maximum binding (active fraction) of the two resultant selectively labeled, recombined hCG preparations, determined with excess receptor were 0.41 and 0.59. These values are similar to those obtained when hCG is labeled as an intact molecule. The specific activities of the recombined preparations were estimated by four different methods, and the resulting values were used in combination with the active fraction estimates to determine the concentrations of active free and bound hormone. Binding analyses were run using varying concentrations of both labeled and unlabeled hormone. Estimates of the equilibrium dissociation binding constant...
Plasmonic effects in near-field optical transmission enhancement through a single bowtie-shaped aperture

In this paper, the enhanced optical transmission through a special type of aperture of a bowtie shape is investigated through near-field imaging and finite-difference numerical analysis. Under linear polarizations in two orthogonal directions, the optical near fields of the bowtie aperture and comparable square and rectangular apertures made in gold and chromium thin films are measured and compared. The bowtie aperture is able to provide a nanometer-sized optical spot when the incident light is polarized across the bowtie gap and delivers a considerable amount of light. Localized surface plasmons are clearly observed in the near-field images for both bowtie and rectangular apertures in gold, but invisible in chromium. Finite-difference time-domain calculations reveal that, depending on the polarization of the incident light, the unique optical properties of the bowtie aperture are a result of either the optical waveguide and the coupled surface plasmon polariton modes existing in the bowtie gap or the coupling between the two open arms of the bowtie aperture.
Fetal effects of cadmium in pregnant rats on normal and zinc deficient diets.

This investigation has shown that not only the extent of fetal resorption and malformation but also the types of malformation seen in rats depend upon the strain used and day of gestation. Furthermore, the effects of zinc deficiency and cadmium administration on the fetus can be at least additive, as was seen for malformations. For fetal resorption, zinc deficiency potentiated the action of cadmium.
Selective Prostate Cancer Thermal Ablation With Laser Activated Gold Nanoshells

Purpose: Laser activated gold nanoshell thermal ablation represents a new, minimally invasive technology that offers benign tissue sparing thermal ablation of malignant tumors. We evaluated the efficacy of this technology for eradicating prostate cancer in a subcutaneous tumor model.Materials and Methods: The 110 nm gold nanoshells with a 10 nm gold shell are designed to act as intense near infrared absorbers. PC-3 cells were injected on the dorsum of nude mice in 3 groups, including 1—gold nanoshell plus near infrared laser, 2—saline alone and 3—near infrared laser alone. Animals received 7.0 ml/gm body weight (low dose) or 8.5 ml/gm body weight (high dose) nanoshells via tail vein injection. Control animals received saline. A 810 nm near infrared laser with a 200 μ laser fiber and an energy setting of 4 W/cm2 was aimed at the tumor bed for 3 minutes. Tumors were measured at days 0, 7, 14 and 21. Tissue temperature was monitored during laser activation. Tumors were harvested at day 21 and stained with he...
Facilication and antagonism of kindled seizure development in the limbic system of the rat

Abstract To study the relative contribution of positive and negative transfer during the kindling of motor seizures, we electrically stimulated the septal area adn entorhinal cortex in rats according to two different stimulation paradigms. The first consisted of the usual transfer paradigm in which one site was consecutively stimulated until generalized convulsions were elicited and then the other, secondary site was consecutively stimulated (‘transfer kindlin’). The second paradigm differed only in that both sites were kindled concurrently by alternating stimulation — one site on one trial, the other on the next trial, etc. (‘alternate kindling’). In agreement with results from other laboratories, transfer kindling produced positive transfer of seizure susceptibility in either direction between the septum and entorhinal cortex: primary kindling of one site facilitated secondary site kindling of the other. In marked contrast, alternate kindling was characterized by a striking antagonism of seizure development. Thirteen of 14 animals exhibited generalized convulsions from one site only. Motor seizure development at the alternately stimulated site was suppressed despite electrographic and behavioral evidence of limbic activation and despite stimulation for a number of trials more than sufficient for primary kindling. Which site became dominant during kindling appeared to be random and variable degrees of suppression were observed. Besides antagonizing motor seizure development at the suppressed site, alternate kindling facilitated dominant site kindling, particularly during the pre-motor phases. These results suggest that transsynaptic neural reorganization induced by kindling involves positive and negative effects upon seizure susceptibility. Positive effects are expressed as facilitation of inter-limbic connections whereas negative effects are expressed as antagonism of limbic motor connections which lead to motor convulsive behaviors.
EFFECTS OF CAUSAL AND NONCAUSAL SEQUENCES OF INFORMATION ON SUBJECTIVE PREDICTION

44 subjects were presented win/loss records representing either different football teams (causally linked data) or persons betting on coin tosses (noncausally linked data) and were asked to predict...
The negative value of public information in the Glosten–Milgrom model

In the standard market-microstructure model of Glosten and Milgrom (1985), public information can have negative social value. Equivalently, an increase in informational asymmetry can raise the total surplus from trade.
Predictive spatio-temporal queries: a comprehensive survey and future directions

Predictive queries over spatio-temporal data proved to be vital in many location-based services including traffic management, ride sharing, and advertising. In the last few years, one of the most exciting work on spatio-temporal data management is about predictive queries. In this paper, we review the current research trends and present their related applications in the field of predictive spatio-temporal queries processing. Then, we discuss some basic challenges arising from new opportunities and open problems. The goal of this paper is to catch the interesting areas and future work under the umbrella of predictive queries over spatio-temporal data.
Recognition of previously labeled or unlabeled pictures by 5-year-olds and adults.

Abstract Pictures accompanied by spoken descriptive labels or unaccompanied by labels were presented, and then pictures alone were shown in tests for recognition. Adults and 5-year-olds more often recognized the previously labeled pictures than the previously unlabeled pictures, but reaction-times were unaffected by labeling. These findings fit the view that recognition, like recall, involves active encoding and systematic retrieval processes. In contrast to previous data showing no developmental changes, fewer recognition errors were made by adults than by 5-year-olds.
On the form of fatigue crack growth formulae

A number of fatigue crack growth prediction formulae have been proposed which require experimental data to calculate empirical constants. Unfortunately, these formulae can result in unwieldy converseion factors when changing from one system of dimensional units to another. When working with tables of experimental data, this awkward conversion can lead to numerical errors. Our objective is to propose the use of modified crack growth equations which allow the user to perform this conversion with a minimum of difficulties
Identification of Anomolous Biliary Anatomy Using Near-Infrared Cholangiography

Background Intraoperative cholangiography (IOC) is especially helpful for the detection of anomalous biliary anatomy during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Fluorescent cholangiography using an intravenously injected fluorophore and near-infrared (NIR) imaging provides similar anatomical detail to standard radiographic cholangiography without ionizing radiation, puncture of the biliary system, or additional operative time. This video shows a laparoscopic cholecystectomy performed under NIR cholangiographic guidance and highlights its ability to identify anomalous anatomy.
Understanding China's Behavioral Change in the WTO Dispute Settlement System

Abstract This article reviews China9s change from cautious observer to active participant in the World Trade Organization9s (WTO) dispute settlement system over the past decade. It argues that normative, rather than material, constraints deterred China from WTO litigation in the initial years of its membership.
Electrophysiological manifestations of experimental botulinal intoxication: depression of cortical EEG.

Abstract The effects of botulinum toxin on the EEG and brain cortical ACh levels of cats and guinea pigs were investigated. The toxin had no significant effect on the EEG of normal animals when administered intraperitoneally, but close intra-arterial injections produced a marked depression of the EEG. In animals with experimentally induced, chronic primary and secondary epileptogenic foci, intraperitoneal injection of toxin was effective in reducing cortical paroxysmal electrogenic activity. Analysis of the brain cortical ACh levels of animals having received toxin by close arterial injection showed that there was a significant increase in the levels of ACh, which occurred concomitantly to the depression of the EEG. These observations are taken as suggestive evidence that botulinum toxin acts in the central nervous system as in the peripheral nervous system to suppress the neurosynaptic release of ACh.
Stable negative edge flame formation in a counterflow burner

In nonpremixed combustion, edge flames can form as a region of flame propagation or flame recession. Forwardly propagating edge flames, as occur in lifted flames, have a local gas velocity at the flame edge that is from unburned partially premixed fuel and air into the flame. These flames represent an ignition process, and permit the flame itself to either stabilize against an incoming gas stream or propagate into unburned fuel and air. Negative edge flames represent the opposite case of a local gas velocity from burned products through the flame edge. The negative edge flame represents a local extinction process, and occurs, for example, during vortex-induced extinction of a nonpremixed flame sheet. A technique for generating steady negative edge flames in a standard counterflow burner is presented, which permits detailed examination of their properties. A coannular counterflow burner is used to create a strain gradient that quenches a central diffusion flame. Unlike previous research on strain-induced flame edges, the axisymmetric flow field ensures gas flow from products through the edge. Measurements of the edge flame's sensitivity to global strain rates and fuel mixtures are presented, along with measurements of the edge flame structure using OH fluorescence and CH emission imaging.
A pH Calculator Based on Linear Transformations of the Henderson-Hasselbalch Equation

The four classical methods of determining the mass of the moon are noted, and a new use of an artificial earth satellite is proposed. The procedure, based on Kepler's law, is outlined, but at present the uncertainties in the observed data preclude an improved estimate of the lunar mass.
The relationship of vitamin D status, smoking, and colorectal adenoma: a retrospective study in an ethnically diverse community.

Abstract Objective Circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) level is suggested to be negatively correlated with risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) and colorectal adenoma (CRA), but most of the epidemiological data were originated amongst Caucasians and African Americans. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between vitamin D status, smoking and CRA in an ethnically diverse community with a high Hispanic density. Methods In this retrospective study, we included 233 patients who underwent complete colonoscopies from 2009 to 2011, and their serum 25OHD levels in the winter season had been measured. Among them, 65 adenoma cases and 168 adenoma-free controls were identified and evaluated for the association of CRA with smoking, ethnicity and serum 25OHD level using unstratified and stratified multivariate logistic regression analyses. Results In our study participants, the mean serum 25OHD level and the percentage of Hispanics were lower in the adenoma group versus the control group, while no black–white difference was noted in the CRA prevalence. When adjusted for 25OHD level, the lower rate of adenoma in Hispanics compared to non-Hispanics was attenuated and became statistically insignificant. A mild protective effect of vitamin D (6% reduction) on the CRA risk was found significant for active smokers, but not for non-smokers. A detrimental impact of smoking in the CRA risk was only shown among non-Hispanic patients, but not among Hispanics irrespective of vitamin D status. Conclusions Our data suggest a marked distinction between Hispanics and non-Hispanics in the risk of CRA. The reduced adenoma prevalence among Hispanics vs. non-Hispanics could be partially explained by vitamin D status, cigarette smoking and their interactions. Future larger-sized multi-center studies on vitamin D status and ethnicity, as well as dietary, behavioral, genetic factors and their interactions for CRA and CRC are needed. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled ‘Vitamin D Workshop’.
Osmium isotopic evidence for mesozoic removal of lithospheric mantle beneath the sierra nevada, california

Thermobarometric and Os isotopic data for peridotite xenoliths from late Miocene and younger lavas in the Sierra Nevada reveal that the lithospheric mantle is vertically stratified: the shallowest portions ( 1100°C to 750°C. Because a variety of isotopic evidence suggests that the Sierran batholith formed on preexisting Proterozoic lithosphere, most of the original lithospheric mantle appears to have been removed before the late Miocene, leaving only a sliver of ancient mantle beneath the crust.
Totally endoscopic robot-assisted transmyocardial revascularization.

Objective Laser transmyocardial revascularization is an emerging therapy for intractable angina stemming from diffuse, small-vessel coronary disease not amenable to percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary bypass grafting. Presently, this therapy is delivered through a median sternotomy or left thoracotomy. In this pilot study, we sought to combine the advantages of a dexterous robotic surgical platform with a flexible fiberoptic laser to develop a minimally invasive approach toward transmyocardial revascularization. Methods A flexible fiberoptic holmium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser probe (CardioGenesis Corporation, Foothill Ranch, Calif), deployed with the da Vinci surgical robotic system (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, Calif), was used to create transmyocardial channels through all left ventricular wall regions in 5 canine subjects. The channels were localized, quantified, and histologically analyzed to assess distribution, dimensions, and transmurality. Results Transmyocardial channels were successfully created in all 6 defined left ventricular wall segments by using this minimally invasive approach without port repositioning, instrument exchange, or probe modifications. Gross pathologic and histologic analyses confirmed the uniform distribution of 1.0-mm transmural channels in all left ventricular regions. No direct pressure, topical hemostatic agents, or suture repairs were required for hemostasis. No significant hemodynamic instability or sustained arrhythmias were encountered at any time during the procedures. Conclusions We report the first use of a prototype flexible fiberoptic laser probe deployed by the da Vinci surgical robotic system to successfully perform totally endoscopic off-pump transmyocardial revascularization in a canine model, demonstrating the feasibility, precision, and safety of this approach. Refinement of this minimally invasive technique may reduce the morbidity of open-chest transmyocardial revascularization and facilitate its use as sole therapy or as an adjunct to percutaneous coronary interventions.
A comparative study of the 2011/2013 water quality assessments in the Pasquotank Watershed in Northeastern North Carolina

The Pasquotank River Watershed is found in Northeast North Carolina beginning in the Great Dismal Swamp at the Virginia/North Carolina border and flows into the Albemarle Sound. The watershed provides a transition between spawning grounds and the waters of the Albemarle Sound. The sound serves as a nursery area for many fish species and is home to numerous sport and commercial species. Tributaries enclosed by various landforms such as swamp, farmlands, and increased housing development supply the watershed. These landforms make both negative and positive contributions to the water quality of the watershed. The 2013 Research Experience for Undergraduates Pasquotank River Watershed Team completed tests of five tributaries and the river itself. These test points were derived from the 2011 Watershed Team research project in order to compare the results. Streams tested were Newbegun Creek, Knobbs Creek, Areneuse Creek, Mill Dam Creek, and Sawyers Creek. These streams, along with the river, covered a large area of the watershed and provided a wide variety of shore development from swampland and farmland to industrial development. In-house tests performed on this year's samples included pH, salt, total dissolved solids, and conductivity. Air/water temperature, dissolved oxygen, wind speed/direction, and turbidity/clarity measurements were taken in the field. The results from these readings were placed into an online database and correlated to the location of the sample using Google Maps. The data were then compared to the 2011 project data and analyzed for any variations or similarities.
How Do Differences in Treatment Impact Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Background: We previously demonstrated disparate acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) survival for black and Hispanic patients; these differences persisted despite younger ages and higher prevalence of favorable cytogenetics in these groups. This study determined: (i) whether there are differences in treatment delivered to minorities, and (ii) how these differences affect outcomes in AML. We hypothesize that differences in treatment explain some proportion of survival disparities. Methods: We used California Cancer Registry data linked to hospital discharge abstracts for patients with AML (1998–2008). Logistic regression models estimated odds of treatment (chemotherapy and/or hematopoietic stem cell transplant) by race/ethnicity. Cox proportional hazard models estimated mortality by race after adjustment for treatment. Results: We analyzed 11,084 records. Black race was associated with lower odds of chemotherapy [OR, 0.74; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.61–0.91]. Black and Hispanic patients had decreased odds of transplant [(OR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.46–0.87); (OR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.62–0.89), respectively]. Black patients had increased hazard of mortality (HR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.04–1.25) compared with whites. Adjustment for receipt of any treatment resulted in decreased mortality (HR, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.00–1.20) for black patients. Conclusions: AML treatment differences for black patients explain some proportion of the disparity. Future AML disparities studies should investigate socioeconomic and other characteristics. Impact: Study findings may better elucidate drivers of disparities in AML. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 24(2); 344–9. ©2015 AACR . This article is featured in Highlights of This Issue, [p. 321][1] [1]: /lookup/volpage/24/321?iss=2
Proline‐directed phosphorylation and isomerization in mitotic regulation and in Alzheimer's Disease

The reversible phosphorylation of proteins on serine/threonine residues preceding proline (Ser/Thr-Pro) is a major regulatory mechanism for the control of a series of cell cycle events. Although phosphorylation is thought to regulate protein function by inducing conformational changes, little is known about most of these conformational changes and their significance. Recent studies indicate that the conformation and function of a subset of these phosphorylated proteins are controlled by the prolyl isomerase Pin1 through isomerization of specific phosphorylated Ser/Thr-Pro bonds. Furthermore, compelling evidence supports the idea that proline-directed phosphorylation and subsequent isomerization play a critical role not only in cell cycle control, but also in the development of Alzheimer's disease, where postmitotic neurons display various cell cycle markers, especially mitotic events, prior to degeneration.
Time- and behavioral state-dependent changes in posterior hypothalamic GABAA receptors contribute to the regulation of sleep.

Sleep-wake behavior is regulated by a circadian rhythm, homeostatically and by additional mechanisms that determine the timing of slow-wave sleep and rapid eye movement sleep (REMS) episodes. The posterior hypothalamus coordinates the neural and humoral signals with the rest-activity cycle. It contains wake-active neurons, and is a site where stimulation of inhibitory GABAA receptors promotes sleep, whereas their antagonism enhances wakefulness. We explored whether GABAergic mechanisms present in the posterior hypothalamus contribute to the homeostatic and other aspects of sleep-wake regulation. Using micropunches of tissue extracted from either the perifornical (PF) or dorsomedial (DM) regions of the posterior hypothalamus of rats, we determined that mRNA levels for selected subunits of GABAA receptors (β1, β3 and e) were higher at the end of the active period or following sleep deprivation, when the need for sleep is high, than after several hours of sleep, when sleep need is partially fulfilled. Such a pattern was present in the PF region only, and was consistent with changes in β1 subunit and GABA synthesizing enzyme (GAD) protein levels. In contrast, in the DM region, the levels of GABAA receptor subunit mRNAs and proteins (α1, α2, β1) and GAD varied with circadian time, but were not responsive to sleep deprivation. Separate experiments with sleep-wake monitoring and local perfusion of the PF region with the GABAA receptor antagonist bicuculline revealed that the antagonist had a weaker sleep-reducing effect when sleep need was enhanced by sleep deprivation and that the increased amount of REMS characteristic of the late sleep period was dependent on endogenous GABAergic inhibition. These results support the concept that a varying magnitude of GABAergic inhibition exerted within the PF region contributes to the homeostatic regulation of sleep and shapes its temporal pattern, whereas GABAergic mechanisms in the DM region contribute to circadian regulation.
Desegregation and Social Monopoly Pricing

This article discusses desegregation behavior of courts in U.S. public education. Interpreting the courts as social price monopolists, testable predictions about integration across school districts are obtained and compared to the results of several large-scale empirical studies.
Differential Aspects of Attention in Brain-Damaged Persons:

34 right hemiplegic (RH) patients were compared with 35 left hemiplegic (LH) patients on a test battery of attention measures in visual and auditory modalities. Results indicate: (a) RHs were superior in visual cancellation tasks, (b) LHs were superior in auditory cancellation tasks, (c) LHs were superior in auditory digit span and visual digit span, and (d) both were the same on a test of auditory visual equivalence. Findings suggest that attention is not a unitary phenomenon. Different facets of attention appear to be impaired, depending on the type of hemiplegia and the type of task.
The development of parvalbumin and calbindin-D28k immunoreactive interneurons in kitten visual cortical areas.

Abstract Calbindin-D and parvalbumin are calcium binding proteins which are found in non-overlapping subpopulations of GABA-ergic interneurons in mammalian neocortex. We studied the development of these calcium-binding proteins in interneurons of cat striate and extrastriate cortical areas which have differing patterns of connectivity and follow different developmental timetables. We examined primary visual areas 17 and 18, secondary visual area 19, medial lateral suprasylvian and lateral suprasylvian areas (MLS and LLS) and association areas 7 and the splenial visual area from the day of birth (P0) through P101. Parvalbumin-immunoreactive (ir) interneurons followed the inside-out pattern of maturation of cortical laminae. They were located only in infragranular layers at the earliest ages and were not observed in the overlying cortical plate. At 3 weeks of age, when cortical lamination is mature, parvalbumin stained cells were found in all cortical layers except layer I. The number of stained secondary and tertiary dendrites in the parvalbumin-ir interneuronal population decreased with age. This change was associated with a shift in the molecular weight of parvalbumin detected on Western blots. During the first postnatal week, the area 17 18 border contained more parvalbumin-ir neurons than other visual areas. The developmental pattern of calbindin staining differed considerably from the parvalbumin staining pattern. Very few calbindin-ir interneurons were seen in area 17 during the first 2 weeks of life. In lateral cortical areas, calbindin-ir neurons were located in cortical plate, infragranular layers of cortex and white matter/subplate. Calbindin-ir neurons increased in supragranular layers of secondary cortical areas by P7 and in area 17 by P20. In the mature cortex, the calbindin staining pattern was bilaminar, with a dense band of calbindin-ir cells in layer II and a second band in layers V–VI. There was no difference in the distribution of calbindin-ir neurons among visual areas at maturity.
Alternative mRNA Splicing of SMRT Creates Functional Diversity by Generating Corepressor Isoforms with Different Affinities for Different Nuclear Receptors

Many eukaryotic transcription factors are bimodal in their regulatory properties and can both repress and activate expression of their target genes. These divergent transcriptional properties are conferred through recruitment of auxiliary proteins, denoted coactivators and corepressors. Repression plays a particularly critical role in the functions of the nuclear receptors, a large family of ligand-regulated transcription factors involved in metazoan development, differentiation, reproduction, and homeostasis. The SMRT corepressor interacts directly with nuclear receptors and serves, in turn, as a platform for the assembly of a larger corepressor complex. We report here that SMRT is expressed in cells by alternative mRNA splicing to yield two distinct variants or isoforms. We designate these isoforms SMRTα and SMRTτ and demonstrate that these isoforms have significantly different affinities for different nuclear receptors. These isoforms are evolutionarily conserved and are expressed in a tissue-specific manner. Our results suggest that differential mRNA splicing serves to customize corepressor function in different cells, allowing the transcriptional properties of nuclear receptors to be adapted to different contexts.
Mechanisms of Glioma-Associated Neovascularization

Glioblastomas (GBMs), the most common primary brain tumor in adults, are characterized by resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. One of the defining characteristics of GBM is an abundant and aberrant vasculature. The processes of vascular co-option, angiogenesis, and vasculogenesis in gliomas have been extensively described. Recently, however, it has become clear that these three processes are not the only mechanisms by which neovascularization occurs in gliomas. Furthermore, it seems that these processes interact extensively, with potential overlap among them. At least five mechanisms by which gliomas achieve neovascularization have been described: vascular co-option, angiogenesis, vasculogenesis, vascular mimicry, and (the most recently described) glioblastoma-endothelial cell transdifferentiation. We review these mechanisms in glioma neovascularization, with a particular emphasis on the roles of hypoxia and glioma stem cells in each process. Although some of these processes are well established, others have been identified only recently and will need to be further investigated for complete validation. We also review strategies to target glioma neovascularization and the development of resistance to these therapeutic strategies. Finally, we describe how these complex processes interlink and overlap. A thorough understanding of the contributing molecular processes that control the five modalities reviewed here should help resolve the treatment resistance that characterizes GBMs.
Attitude and Peer Cross-pressure: Adolescent Drug and Alcohol Use.

This research uses the concept of cross pressures, a concept created to explain political behavior, to predict the frequency of adolescent alcohol, cigarette, and drug use. Using a population of eighth, tenth, and twelfth graders from 207 Michigan public school districts, respondents reported their frequency of alcohol, cigarette, and drug use for thirty days and one year prior to the survey. They also reported their perception of friends' approval/disapproval of substance use, peer pressure to use, and their assessment of risk of use. Cross pressure patterns are created from these three variables and used to predict frequency of substance use. In addition to descriptive data and associations between independent and dependent variables, the findings show the patterns and extent of cross pressures to be highly predictive of frequency of substance use. The implications for understanding adolescent substance use and for educational programs are noted.
Accurate and efficient image-intensifier distortion-correction algorithm and its application in volume tomographic angiography

An algorithm has been developed to correct the image distortion introduced by the image intensifier - CCD camera chain in our volume tomographic angiography imaging system. First the distorted image is partitioned into small quadrilateral regions, then each partition is mapped individually to the corrected image by its corresponding bilinear functions. The parameters of these bilinear functions can be acquired by a special calibration procedure and stored as a lookup table. The maximum errors before and after the distortion correction were measured to be 5.96 mm and 0.03 mm. The method is further applied to the 3D image reconstruction of a simulated vascular phantom and live animal studies.
Tautomerism in some quinaldyl sulfones

A series of quinaldyl sulfones was synthesized and their tautomeric composition was determined by 1 H nmr
Quantizing the discrete self-trapping equation

Abstract Although normal ordering (NO) is often used as a quantization procedure for classical problems that are based on complex mode amplitudes, an alternate choice, called “symmetric ordering” (SO), is championed here. In normal form the SO operator is simply related to zero order Laguerre polynomials that are implied by Weyl's quantization rule. Thus SO is as convenient as NO, and it is more accurate when the rotating wave approximation is used for a mass-spring oscillator with a slightly nonlinear spring. The two quantization methods are compared for a Hartree analysis of the discrete self-trapping equation with an arbitrary power of the nonlinearity.
TNCs and the corruption of GATT: Free trade versus fair trade

In order to enrich global corporate culture, a distinction must be made between the economic ideology of free trade and the moral ideology of fair trade. GATT has failed to make this distinction. Its sole ethos of free trade is only applicable among developmentally equivalent nations, and has been used by TNCs as a means for attaining their commercial ends in the third world. GATT's lack of commitment to an objective of fair trade necessitates its replacement. This article suggests a replacement in the form of a network of trade organizations. The network takes the form of a “hub-and-spoke” arrangement, in which the hub would be the Global Trade Organization, and the spokes would each represent Regional Trade Organizations.
Valuation of AW: modeling the impacts of distractions

Purpose – Auditory and visual distractions originating in the workspace have been shown to negatively impact the performance of knowledge workers on complex tasks. The paper aims to theorize that an adaptable workspace (AW) can mitigate the negative impacts on performance.Design/methodology/approach – A conceptual multi‐attribute utility model is presented to facilitate decision‐maker's choice between a static and an adaptable workspace. A mathematical model is presented to evaluate the net present value (NPV) of deploying AW in a knowledge organization. The significance of valuation model is an integration of costs of distractions into the NPV calculations. Negative impacts of distractions are modeled as performance costs. The model also captures the costs of deploying AW so that a comparative benefit of adopting AW over a static workspace is recognized.Findings – The significant positive results for NPV justifies investments in AW over a standard open workspace with the exception for distraction‐free wo...
A study on the effect of inorganic salts in transungual drug delivery of terbinafine.

Objectives The poor success rate of topical therapy in nail disorders is mainly because of the low permeability of keratinized nail plates. This can be overcome by utilizing potent perungual drug penetration enhancers that facilitate the drug permeation across the nail plate. This study evaluated the efficacy of inorganic salts in enhancing the trans-nail permeation using a model potent antifungal agent, terbinafine hydrochloride. Methods Permeation studies were carried out across human cadaver nail in a Franz diffusion cell using terbinafine solution (1 mg/ml; pH 3). Preliminary studies were carried out to assess the effect of salts (0.5 m) on the terbinafine permeation into and through the nail. Further, the influence of salt concentration (0.25–3 m) on permeation, the mechanism for the enhancement and the suitability of developing a formulation were also studied. Key findings Terbinafine permeation (3–5 fold) through the nail and drug load (4–7 fold) in the nail were enhanced significantly when salts were used at 0.5 m concentration. Increase in salt concentration up to 1 m increased the permeation, which decreased with further increase in salt concentration (>1 m). Mechanistic studies revealed that the enhanced permeation by salts was mainly due to their ability to increase the nail hydration and also to increase the thermodynamic activity of the drug. The cumulative amount of terbinafine permeated at 24 h from the formulated gel (9.70 ± 0.93 μg/cm2) was comparable with that of a solution (11.45 ± 1.62 μg/cm2). Conclusions Given the promising results from the permeation and drug load studies, it was concluded that inorganic salts could be used as potent transungual permeation enhancers.
Vapor‐phase grafting of methyl acrylate on fiber surfaces treated with aqueous dispersions of metal oxides

Textile fabrics of cotton, wool, nylon, polyester, acrylic, and polyolefin pretreated with aqueous dispersions of photosensitive metal oxides (antimony, tin, titanium, and zinc oxide) were exposed to methyl acrylate vapors with simultaneous ultraviolet irradiation (>3100 A) for up to 2hr. The metal oxides acted either as effective photosensitizers, causing increased polymer grafting on the fiber surface, or as photoabsorbers causing a net decrease in grafting compared to unsensitized photografting. Metal oxide-induced grafting occurred more readily on hydrophilic fibers and was accompanied by less homopolymer formation, in comparison to grafting on more hydrophobic fibers. Antimony and tin oxides were more effective on hydrophilic fibers, while zinc oxide was more effective on hydrophobic fibers. Titanium dioxide was essentially ineffective as a photosensitizer. The sensitized grafting process was studied in relationship to irradiation and monomer flow time, the degree of homopolymer formation accompanying grafting, the nature of the metal oxide and polymer graft on the fiber surface, and the reflectance characteristics of the metal oxide-treated fabrics.
Use of a quaternary ammonium detergent in liposome mediated DNA transfection of mouse L-cells.

Abstract Sonicated liposomes composed of dioleoylphosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE) and a quaternary ammonium detergent (dodecyl-, tetradecyl-, or cetyl-trimethylammonium bromide) mediates functional transfer of pSV2 CAT plasmid DNA to mouse L929 fibroblasts. Successful transfection was determined by assaying for chloramphenicol acetyltransferase activity in cell lysates collected 40 h after exposure to the lipid-DNA complexes. Liposomes prepared with the quaternary ammonium detergents were less toxic than the free detergents at the same concentrations and were more efficient in their delivery of the plasmid DNA to the cells. Analysis of the three detergents in combination with the lipid showed that cetyltrimethylammonium bromide was least toxic to the cells. This detergent, at a minimal concentration of 20 mol% in DOPE, allowed for stable liposome preparations and efficient transfection. Optimal efficiency of transfection occurred with 30 μg of DNA. Further increases in the DNA concentration caused a decrease in the transfection efficiency, perhaps due to charge repulsions between the liposomes now saturated with negatively charged DNA and the negatively charged cell surface. The transfection activity of the liposome was limited by its cytotoxicity at high liposome concentrations. These results are compared with that of the Lipofectin, another positively charged liposome preparation which is commercially available. Although the overall transfection activity of the liposome containing the quaternary ammonium detergent is somewhat lower than that of the Lipofectin, it may serve as an inexpensive and convenient alternative.
On the Stress Field in Sliding Ellipsoidal Inclusions With Shear Eigenstrain

A stress distribution in elliptical inclusions with sliding interface and uniform shear eigenstrain is analyzed. The existence of a nonvanishing stress in nearly circular inclusions is demonstrated, and an approximate method for its determination is suggested. An inherent nonlinear dependence of the stress on applied eigenstrain is indicated and discussed.
Multi-mode and multi-frequency guided wave imaging via chirp excitations

Guided wave imaging has shown great potential for structural health monitoring applications by providing a way to visualize and characterize structural damage. For successful implementation of delay-and-sum and other elliptical imaging algorithms employing guided ultrasonic waves, some degree of mode purity is required because echoes from undesired modes cause imaging artifacts that obscure damage. But it is also desirable to utilize multiple modes because different modes may exhibit increased sensitivity to different types and orientations of defects. The well-known modetuning effect can be employed to use the same PZT transducers for generating and receiving multiple modes by exciting the transducers with narrowband tone bursts at different frequencies. However, this process is inconvenient and timeconsuming, particularly if extensive signal averaging is required to achieve a satisfactory signal-to-noise ratio. In addition, both acquisition time and data storage requirements may be prohibitive if signals from many narrowband tone burst excitations are measured. In this paper, we utilize a chirp excitation to excite PZT transducers over a broad frequency range to acquire multi-modal data with a single transmission, which can significantly reduce both the measurement time and the quantity of data. Each received signal from a chirp excitation is post-processed to obtain multiple signals corresponding to different narrowband frequency ranges. Narrowband signals with the best mode purity and echo shape are selected and then used to generate multiple images of damage in a target structure. The efficacy of the proposed technique is demonstrated experimentally using an aluminum plate instrumented with a spatially distributed array of piezoelectric sensors and with simulated damage.