cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Astrocyte cultures derived from human brain tissue express angiotensinogen mRNA.

Abstract We have identified human cultured cell lines that are useful for studying angiotensinogen gene expression and its regulation in the central nervous system. A model cell system of human central nervous system origin expressing angiotensinogen has not previously been available. Expression of angiotensinogen has not previously been available, Expression noninduced human astrocytes, since astrocytic cell lines derived from human glioblastomas or nonneoplastic human brain tissue invariably produced angiotensinogen mRNA. In situ hybridization histochemistry revealed that angiotensinogen mRNA production was not limited to a subpopulation of astrocytes because greater than 99% of cells in these cultures contained angiotensinogen mRNA. These cell lines will be useful in studies of the molecular mechanisms controlling angiotensin synthesis and the role of biologically active angiotensin in the human brain by allowing us to examine regulation of expression of the renin-angiotensin system in human astrocyte cultures.
A uniform, low loss 1×16 power splitter based on a high Q Si 3 N 4 ring resonator

A novel ring resonator based 1×16 optical power splitter is demonstrated on Si 3 N 4 waveguides with excellent uniformity (0.4dB) and low excess loss (0.9dB). The device is promising for high port count splitters without cascading.
Effect of elongational flow on polymer adsorption

Adsorption et desorption de polystyrene a partir de cyclohexane, a 34,8°C, sur un miroir de chrome
Edg-1, the G protein–coupled receptor for sphingosine-1-phosphate, is essential for vascular maturation

Sphingolipid signaling pathways have been implicated in many critical cellular events. Sphingosine-1-phosphate (SPP), a sphingolipid metabolite found in high concentrations in platelets and blood, stimulates members of the endothelial differentiation gene (Edg) family of G protein-coupled receptors and triggers diverse effects, including cell growth, survival, migration, and morphogenesis. To determine the in vivo functions of the SPP/Edg signaling pathway, we disrupted the Edg1 gene in mice. Edg1(-/-) mice exhibited embryonic hemorrhage leading to intrauterine death between E12.5 and E14.5. Vasculogenesis and angiogenesis appeared normal in the mutant embryos. However, vascular maturation was incomplete due to a deficiency of vascular smooth muscle cells/pericytes. We also show that Edg-1 mediates an SPP-induced migration response that is defective in mutant cells due to an inability to activate the small GTPase, Rac. Our data reveal Edg-1 to be the first G protein-coupled receptor required for blood vessel formation and show that sphingolipid signaling is essential during mammalian development.
Underlying pathophysiology of HCV infection in HIV-positive drug users.

Abstract HCV and HIV infections are very common among injection drug users (IDUs). It is well known that 80–90% of HIV-infected IDUs are also infected with HCV. Furthermore, patients with HCV/HIV co-infection are at a higher risk of progressing to end-stage liver disease, namely cirrhosis. Even though there is increasing global awareness of HCV/HIV co-infection and extended therapeutic programs for this infected population, little is known about the HCV/HIV pathophysiology that mediates the rapid progression to hepatic disease. Liver disease caused by HCV/HIV co-infection is characterized by inflammation and cell-death. Recent reports suggest that the HIV and HCV envelope proteins may induce apoptosis and inflammation in hepatocytes via a novel pathway involving collaborative signaling. Moreover, HCV/HIV co-infection may also alter the cytokine production in vivo. Further studies to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of HCV and HIV-mediated pathogenesis will help in the development of therapeutic strategi...
A Three-Dimensional Multimodality Brain Map of the Nemestrina Monkey

A three-dimensional multimodality computerized map of the nemestrina monkey brain was created with serial sectioning and digital imaging techniques. An adult female Macaca nemestrina (pigtail macaque) weighing 7.2 kg was used in constructing this atlas. CT, PET, and MRI were performed on the monkey before the specimen's head was frozen and cryoplaned. Closely spaced (50 microns) images of the specimen blockface were then digitally acquired and modified to produce whole head and brain-only 3D image sets. The resulting data sets were organized into a digital volume and repositioned into a stereotaxic coordinate system defined by Horsley and Clark in 1908 [7]. Orthogonal images were obtained by digitally resampling the volume in order to produce a full set of coronal, sagittal, and horizontal images. Stereotaxic reference grids were applied to each image indicating the A/P, M/L, or Ho position within the digital volume. Specific anatomic structures were outlined from the cryosection data set and 3D surface models reconstructed. Structural labels indicating nuclei, tracts, and other neuroanatomical features were incorporated into coronally sliced cryosection images spaced at 500 microns. The CT, PET, and MRI data sets were reconstructed into a digital volume and coregistered to the cryosection volume. All images constructed from this 3D map are available for public access via the internet using an anonymous file transfer protocol (FTP) and the World Wide Web (http:@www.loni.ucla.edu). The foremost advantage of this digital map is an integrated multimodality three-dimensional representation of the Macaca nemestrina brain, which is not possible with traditional atlases.
Recycling of refinery and petrochemical effluents employing advanced multi-barrier systems.

The Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. Panipat had to build two water reclamation plants as a response to the demands of the environmental authorities. The plants, which treat secondary refinery and various refinery/petrochemical process effluents, were commissioned in 2006 and 2010 respectively. Advanced multi-barrier systems (including ultrafiltration and reverse osmosis) have been employed in order to meet the stringent quality requirements for the recycling of boiler make-up water. Excellent results with regard to the removal of the major parameters such as total dissolved solids (TDS) and silica have been accomplished, e.g. silica is mainly removed by RO (from 11.6 mg/L in the UF outlet to 0.09 mg/L in the RO permeate (99.2% removal)) and is then reduced further to 0.007 mg/L (7 μg/L; total removal 99.94%) in the mixed bed ion exchanger (20 μg/L is the specified limit for boiler make-up water in various power plant guidelines). Both UF process units have shown relatively good performance. The older UF has been in operation for more than five years with still acceptable permeability values and a relatively low number of fibre breakages.
The role of small-scale ion injections in the buildup of Earth's ring current pressure: Van Allen Probes observations of the 17 March 2013 storm

Energetic particle transport into the inner magnetosphere during geomagnetic storms is responsible for significant plasma pressure enhancement, which is the driver of large-scale currents that control the global electrodynamics within the magnetosphere-ionosphere system. Therefore, understanding the transport of plasma from the tail deep into the near-Earth magnetosphere, as well as the energization processes associated with this transport, is essential for a comprehensive knowledge of the near-Earth space environment. During the main phase of a geomagnetic storm on 17 March 2013 (minimum Dst ~ −137 nT), the Radiation Belt Storm Probes Ion Composition Experiment (RBSPICE) instrument on the Van Allen Probes observed frequent, small-scale proton injections deep into the inner nightside magnetosphere in the region L ~ 4 – 6. Although isolated injections have been previously reported inside geosynchronous orbit, the large number of small-scale injections observed in this event suggests that, during geomagnetic storms injections provide a robust mechanism for transporting energetic ions deep into the inner magnetosphere. In order to understand the role that these injections play in the ring current dynamics, we determine the following properties for each injection: (i) associated pressure enhancement, (ii) the time duration of this enhancement, and (iii) the lowest and highest energy channels exhibiting a sharp increase in their intensities. Based on these properties, we estimate the effect of these small-scale injections on the pressure buildup during the storm. We find that this mode of transport could make a substantial contribution to the total energy gain in the storm time inner magnetosphere.
Computational Bead Design: A Pilot Summer Camp in Computer Aided Design and 3D Printing for Middle School Girls

Computing, together with jewelry design and 3D printing offers an innovative introduction to the possibilities of technology and programming. This combination was presented to participants of a weeklong summer technology day camp focusing on computer-aided design (CAD) using jewelry design and modeling. The participants then saw their design creations built through 3D printing. In this paper we present the design of a weeklong day camp called "Computing and Jewelry Design". Initial findings are positive and suggest opportunities for improvement.
Application of the Moyer method to transverse shielding of a linear bremsstrahlung source.

The Moyer method is applied to the design of transverse shielding for an electron linear accelerator, assuming uniform beam power loss along the accelerator structure. Parameters for this application are given and sample calculations are shown. For a beam power loss uniformly distributed with distance along a straight line of 0.5W m{sup {minus}1}, it is predicted that 1.2 m of concrete are needed to reduce the dose equivalent rate to 1.39 {times} 10{sup {minus}8} Sv s{sup {minus}1}, (5 mrem hour{sup {minus}1}) at a transverse distance of 3.5 m from the source.
Detection of coronary disease patients at high risk for recurrent myocardial infarction by elevated plasma inactive creatine kinase B protein levels

Abstract The diagnostic and prognostic significance of plasma inactive creatine kinase B protein (CK-Bi) levels measured by radioimmunoassay was determined in various ischemic myocardial syndromes. In 120 stable angina patients free of pain at time of blood sampling, mean CK-Bi level was 114 ± 42 (SD) μg-equiv/ml; 195 μg-equiv/ml (95% confidence interval) represented upper limit of normal. In seven coronary artery disease (CAD) patients atrial pacing-induced ischemia was not associated with increased coronary sinus CK-Bi. Of 201 consecutive patients with suspected acute infarction (AMI), 45 developed ECG criteria of transmural AMI with concomitant increased plasma CK-Bi levels (498 ± 133, range 372–718 μg-equiv/ml). Elevated CK-Bi levels in evolving transmural AMI were detected before raised CK enzyme activity. Elevated plasma CK-Bi levels also occurred in acute pericarditis and in unstable angina. In the 84 patients not developing ECG changes or elevated plasma CK activity, their plasma CK-Bi levels were also normal and no coronary events occurred in the next 6 months. The remaining 55 patients had nontransmural AMI, with 15 also having elevated plasma CK and CK-Bi levels, of whom six developed re-AMI in the next 3 months. In the other 40 nontransmural AMI patients, plasma CK-Bi levels (350 ± 65 μg-equiv/ml, range 228 to 445) increased significantly without associated CK activity rise, and 24 developed re-AMI (three fatal) in the next 6 months. These data suggest that: (1) plasma CK-Bi protein radioimmunoassay measurement provides a sensitive means for detecting myocardial necrosis or inflammation and (2) elevated plasma CK-Bi levels in coronary disease patients during myocardial ischemic pain may afford identification of a CAD clinical subset at high risk of subsequent AMI.
Pursuing Professional Changes

Connecting with a community of women helped drive two Google software engineers to make important career transitions, merge their personal and professional interests, develop their leadership and speaking skills, and find greater career fulfillment. This is one of five articles providing personal perspectives on gender diversity in computing. The first Web extra at http://youtu.be/DomqOa0pyos is a video interview in which Alice Bonhomme-Biais, a staff software engineer on the Google Crisis Response team, discusses the importance of gender diversity in computing with Alfred C. (Alf) Weaver, the director of the University of Virginia's Applied Research Institute. The second Web extra at http://youtu.be/RD68hzlf1l0 is a video interview in which Raquel Romano, a senior software engineer on the Google Crisis Response team, discusses the importance of gender diversity in computing with Alfred C. (Alf) Weaver, the director of the University of Virginia's Applied Research Institute.
Performance of the maximum modified early warning score to predict the need for higher care utilization among admitted emergency department patients

BACKGROUND: It is uncertain whether ED-calculated risk scores can predict required intensity of care upon hospital admission. This investigation examines whether versions of the Modified Early Warning Score (MEWS) predict high level of care utilization among patients admitted from the ED. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of 299 admissions was implemented. Exclusions prior to abstraction included pediatrics, cardiology, or trauma admissions. Using a data-gathering instrument, abstractors recorded physiologic parameters and clinical variables. Risk scores were calculated electronically. In contrast to the original MEWS, the MEWS Max was calculated using data from the entire ED visit. The primary outcome composite included all-cause mortality and higher care utilization within 24 hours. RESULTS: The final analysis contained 280 participants. 76 (27%) met the composite endpoint of death (n = 1) or higher care utilization (n = 76). The MEWS Max was associated with the composite outcome (OR=l.6 [95% CI 1.3-1.8] for each one point increase). The MEWS Max had moderate predictive ability (C statistic: MEWS Max 0.73 [0.66-0.79]) but classified 82% of participants as intermediate (10-40%) risk. Inclusion of additional variables slightly improved the predictive ability (C statistic 0.76 [0.69–0.82]) and correctly reclassified 17% of patients as <10% risk. CONCLUSIONS: The MEWS Max has moderate ability to predict the need for higher level of care. Addition of ED length of stay and other variables to MEWS Max may identify patients at both low and high risk of requiring a higher level of care. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2010;5:E46–E52. © 2010 Society of Hospital Medicine.
Effect of estradiol on plasma melatonin levels

Melatonin levels were determined in plasma samples obtained at 15 minute intervals during a 4-hour period (08:00–12:00 hours) from a normal adult male on 5 consecutive days. On days 1, 2, and 3, the subject was given estradiol valerate (E2) 10μg/kg at the end of each sampling period. An episodic pattern of melatonin secretion was found. Post E2 mean estradiol levels per 4 hours increased and mean melatonin and testosterone levels per 4 hours decreased significantly. A decrease in melatonin levels post E2 is the reverse of the response expected based on nonhuman animal experimental data.
Interpreting oxygen vacancy migration mechanisms in oxides using the layered structure motif

Abstract The manner in which oxygen vacancies migrate in oxide ceramics is analyzed in terms of an atom layer stacking motif to elucidate similarities and differences in migration mechanisms as a function of crystal structure and chemistry. In particular, five oxide structures are examined: rocksalt, spinel, bixbyite, pyrochlore, and fluorite. While there are similarities that are related to structure in the types of migration mechanisms that are possible, there are significant differences as a consequence of chemistry and deviations from the parent structures (rocksalt and fluorite). One primary difference occurs because of structural relaxations related to the complex chemistry in spinel and pyrochlore, in which oxygen ions tend to form localized groupings within which oxygen vacancy hopping mechanisms are particularly fast. While these mechanisms cannot lead to net migration, a kinetic Monte Carlo model does show that they do influence overall diffusivity. We conclude that the atom layer stacking motif is an effective scheme to understand the dependency of oxygen vacancy migration mechanisms on oxide crystal structure.
On-axis viewing: Sample visualization along the synchrotron X-ray beam

Abstract The SBC on-axis visualization system allows viewing of biological crystal samples along the X-ray beam direction, without image degradation and without parallax distortion. The on-axis system was constructed using a long working distance Maksutov–Cassegrain (MC) reflective microscope, and a right angle (45°) externally reflecting mirror. The minimum size of the right angle mirror and the maximum size of the hole through which X-rays pass depend on the sample to mirror distance as well as the required field of view and optics working distance. The on-axis system allows biological crystal visualization during diffraction data collection with full Kappa geometry without image degradation (paraxial cone rays are excluded from the image plane). On the basis of these observations it is recommended that users seriously consider on-axis reflective rather than refractive optics as the primary visualization technique.
Characterization and real-time imaging of gene expression of adenovirus embedded silk-elastinlike protein polymer hydrogels.

Transient expression levels, vector dissemination and toxicities associated with adenoviral vectors have prompted the usage of matrices for localized and controlled gene delivery. Two recombinant silk-elastinlike protein polymer analogues, SELP-47K and SELP-415K, consisting of different lengths and ratios of silk and elastin units, were previously shown to be injectable hydrogels capable of matrix-mediated controlled adenoviral gene delivery. Reported here is a study of spatiotemporal control over adenoviral gene expression with these SELP analogues in a human tumor xenograft model of head and neck cancer using whole animal imaging. Real-time images of viral expression levels indicate that polymer concentration and polymer structure are predominant factors that affect viral release and, thus, viral transfection. Decrease in polymer concentration and increase in polymer elastin content results in greater release, probably due to changes in the network structure of the hydrogel. To better understand this re...
Power and sample size requirements for non-inferiority in studies comparing two matched proportions where the events are correlated

Consider clustered matched-pair studies for non-inferiority where clusters are independent but units in a cluster are correlated. An inexpensive new procedure and the expensive standard one are applied to each unit and outcomes are binary responses. Appropriate statistics testing non-inferiority of a new procedure have been developed recently by several investigators. In this paper, we investigate power and sample size requirement of the clustered matched-pair study for non-inferiority. Power of a test is related primarily to the number of clusters. The effect of a cluster size on power is secondary. The efficiency of a clustered matched-pair design is inversely related to the intra-class correlation coefficient within a cluster. We present an explicit formula for obtaining the number of clusters for a given cluster size and the cluster size for a given number of clusters for a specific power. We also provide alternative sample size calculations when available information regarding parameters are limited. The formulas can be useful in designing a clustered matched-pair study for non-inferiority. An example for determining sample size to establish non-inferiority for a clustered matched-pair study is illustrated.
Evolutionary origins of obesity

Although it appeared relatively suddenly, the current obesity epidemic - largely manifest in industrialized societies but now spreading to the rest of the world - is the result of interaction between human biology and human culture over the long period of human evolution. As mammals and primates, humans have the capacity to store body fat when opportunities to consume excess energy arise. But during the millions of years of human evolution such opportunities were rare and transient. More commonly ancestral hominins and modern humans were confronted with food scarcity and had to engage in high levels of physical activity. In tandem with encephalization, humans evolved elaborate and complex genetic and physiological systems to protect against starvation and defend stored body fat. They also devised technological aids for increasing energy consumption and reducing physical effort. In the last century, industrialization provided access to great quantities of mass-produced, high-calorie foods and many labour-saving and transportation devices, virtually abolishing starvation and heavy manual work. In the modern obesogenic environment, individuals possessing the appropriate combination of ancestral energy-conserving genes are at greater risk for overweight and obesity and associated chronic diseases.
Transfusion increases infection without affecting neurologic outcome in spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage

Liberal use of packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusion to a predefined threshold has been shown to worsen the outcome of ICU patients. However, in an effort to improve neurologic outcomes of patients with nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), transfusions are still used frequently to maintain hemoglobin of 10 g/dl. We hypothesized that PRBC transfusion in patients with SAH would worsen their outcomes.
Model for devolatilization of coal particles in fluidized beds

A model for the devolatilization of coal in a non-combusting fluidized bed is proposed. Previous studies have either considered devolatilization as a non-rate process or assumed the devolatilization coal particle as isothermal. The assumption of an isothermal particle requires the heat transfer Biot number ⪝0.02. In view of the larger Biot numbers predicted using existing fluidized bed gas-solid heat exchange correlations and reported values for thermophysical properties, the present model considers the devolatilizing particle to be, in general, non-isothermal. The temperature profiles are computed from the analytical solution of the one-dimensional spherical coordinate unsteady heat transport equation with a convective boundary condition. The temperatures are then used in the non-isothermal coal decomposition kinetic expression proposed by Anthony et al., integrated over the particle to obtain the fractional volume average devolatilization at any given time. Parametric studies show a chemical kinetics controlled regime for small particles, a heat transfer controlled regime for larger particles and a mixed regime for intermediate particle sizes. The extent of the mixed regime depends on the type of coal as well as the operating conditions. The model results are also compared with the fluidized CH4 and CO evolution data reported in the literature for various particle sizes and different temperatures.
The power of activist networks in the mass self-communication era: A triangulation study of the impact of WikiLeaks on the stock value of Bank of America

Abstract This case study examines a confrontation between WikiLeaks and Bank of America (BOA). Drawing upon Castells’ concept of mass self-communication and the cocreational approach to public relations, a triangulation of social network analysis and event study method allows this project to capture the structure of WikiLeaks’ global network and to document how the activist network affected BOA's stock value. The analysis reveals that WikiLeaks emerged as the center of a global mass self-communication network consisting of a diverse group of members, such as social media sites and mass media outlets. The study offers implications for a re-conceptualization of the role of activism in public relations.
Fracture Characterization From VSP Data: Modeling And Inversion

We present a new mathematical model to quantify the process for the generation of low frequency Stoneley waves (tube waves) in a borehole due to the presence of an intersecting, fluid-filled fracture. The model differs from a similar model developed by Beydoun et al. (1985), who formulated tubewave generation in terms of a fluid-flow mechanism. Here, we employ a wave-propagation approach, considering tube-wave generation in a borehole in terms of a guided mode propagating in the fracture and coupling to the borehole. Tube wave to P-wave amplitude ratios measured in the borehole are expressed as a nonlinear function of the fracture parameters (aperture, strike, and dip), formation parameters (velocities and densities), and frequency. An inversion technique, based on a nonlinear least-squares algorithm (the LevenbergMarquardt method), is developed to invert for the fracture parameters. We apply the inversion to hydrophone VSP data recorded at Mirror Lake, NH and Kent Cliffs, NY.
Interlaboratory cholinesterase determinations and the effect on the results of statistical evaluation of cholinesterase inhibition

Cholinesterase activity is often a key parameter in the regulatory assessment of cholinesterase-inhibiting agents such as organophosphorous and carbamate pesticides. Thus, the nature and characteristics of the methodology involved in the measurement of plasma (PChe), erythrocyte (R Che), and brain (BChe) cholinesterase activity takes on a heightened degree of importance. In this study an interlaboratory comparison of cholinesterase activity as determined by various laboratories was conducted in order to assess the influence that different methodologies may have on the results of statistical evaluation of cholinesterase inhibition. RChe, PChe, and BChe from animals exposed to fenthion, a known cholinesterase inhibitor, were determined at 8 different laboratories with experience in cholinesterase determination. Seven different instruments and 5 different assay procedures were employed. Marked differences in both the magnitude of inhibition measured and its designation as a statistically significant difference often occurred between laboratories using both the same as well as different methods of cholinesterase analysis. These findings illustrate the importance of considering not only the sensitivity of a given method of analysis, but also the influence of inter- and intra-laboratory variation on statistically responsive aspects of the data profile itself (i.e., precision, sample size, etc.) when establishing regulatory levels (i.e., Reference Doses (RfDs), Health Advisory Levels (HALs), etc.) on the basis of a cholinesterase no-observed- or lowest-observed-effect level (NOEL, LOEL).
Two-mode system for tank gunnery skill training based on haptic interaction

A study on tank gunnery motor skill training is introduced in this paper. We developed a two-mode system used for teaching and training. In the haptic guidance mode, the trainee is passive and experiences position playback of the expert's motion with a proportional-derivation (PD) controller. In the path constraining mode, the trainee operates the haptic device actively, and the aiming point in the virtual environment is constrained on the desired path. A new haptic rendering algorithm is introduced in this mode. An experiment for record-play motion of drawing a virtual sine path and path constraining with drawing an envelope path is designed. Results indicate that the haptic rendering algorithm in the two-mode training system is stable.
The cytotoxic effect of cis-diamminedichloroplatinum(II) on cultured Chinese hamster ovary cells at elevated temperatures: Arrhenius plot analysis.

The effect of cis-diamminedichroIoplatinum (II) (cis-DDP) and hyperthermia on cultured Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells were investigated. Cells were treated with 6 μM cis-DDP for various durations of time at temperatures ranging from 37 to 43°C, and cell survival curves were determined as a function of treatment time. The cytotoxic effect of cis-DDP increased with increasing temperatures, indicating that hyperthermia enhanced cytotoxicity of cis-DDP. Arrhenius analysis of surviving fraction data (6 μM cis-DDP) yielded activation energies of 61 kcal/M between 37 and 41°C and 213 kcal/M between 41 and 43°C. Further experiments using two different drug concentrations (3 and 12 μM) confirmed these activation energies in these two different temperature ranges. However, the activation energy for 12 μM cis-DDP given in the temperature range 33–37°C was 22 kcal/M, which is smaller than those found above 37°C. This activation energy appeared to be identical to that reported for the degradation or depurination of...
Stability of Markov modulated discrete-time dynamic systems

Motivated by various control applications, this paper develops stability analysis of discrete-time systems with regime switching, in which the dynamics are modulated by Markov chains with two time scales. Using the high contrast of the different transition rates among the Markovian states, singularly perturbed Markov chains are used in the formulations. Taking into consideration of the regime changes and time-scale separation makes the stability analysis a difficult task. In this work, asymptotic stability analysis is carried out using perturbed Liapunov function techniques. It is demonstrated that if the limit system is stable, then the original system is also stable. In addition, we examine path excursion, derive bounds on mean recurrence time, and obtain the associated probability bounds.
Thermal focusing in complex stratigraphic regions: Lithology and porosity effects, and equivalent vertical and horizontal thermal conductivities

Thermal focusing or defocusing by spatial variations in thermal conductivity caused by lithology and porosity fluctuations impacts the mean vertical geothermal gradient, localized fluctuations in temperature, and lateral bending of heat flow lines. Using mean field renormalization techniques, in which spatial fluctuations are treated as being randomly distributed around slowly varying mean values, estimates are given of the relative importance of lithologic and porosity variations in influencing thermal focusing. It is shown that, except for massive halite and/or evaporate variations, nearly all other geological situations can be viewed as having only a slowly varying mean lithology: fluctuations in porosity dominate thermal focusing. The mean vertical geothermal gradient is shown to be decreased by roughly 5–10% (with a maximum possible decrease of 25%) by the presence of porosity variations, relative to the mean gradient that exists in the same average medium but without fluctuations in porosity. The equivalent mean vertical thermal conductivity is shown to be increased by a maximum of about 12% relative to the non-fluctuating medium case. Root mean square temperature fluctuations vary in the typical range of 3–30°C depending on the correlation length scale of the porosity fluctuations. A correlation length of 1 km produces temperature fluctuations of around 3°C. Lateral bending of heat flux lines is implied by the thermal focusing; estimates suggest a root mean square bending angle of around 8–10°, with a corresponding mean equivalent lateral thermal conductivity of around 14% of the equivalent vertical thermal conductivity. These values are sufficiently large to suggest that fluctuations in stratigraphic sequences can lead to compartmentalized domains of juxtaposed hotter and cooler sedimentary volumes, thereby impacting the regimes of hydrocarbon generation. A simple estimate suggests that the depth of the top of the oil window may be increased by up to 0.5 km by such considerations. Effects due to anisotropic thermal conductivities, temperature dependence of thermal conductivity, and anisotropic correlated behavior of porosity and lithology fluctuations, need to be investigated to assess their significance.
IS IT ALL JUST A MATTER OF LUCK

A central argument of Alfred Mele's Free Will and Luck (2006) is that the problem of luck poses essentially the same problem for all the main indeterministic accounts of free will. Consequently, there is no advantage is certain theories (notably, agent-causal theories) in their capacity to respond to the problem of luck. I argue that Mele has not made a persuasive case for these claims.
The striking resemblance of high-resolution G-banded chromosomes of man and chimpanzee.

The fine structure and genetic organization of the chromosomes of man and chimpanzee are so similar that it is difficult to account for their phenotypic differences.
CUTANEOUS METABOLISM OF NITROGLYCERIN IN VIABLE RAT SKIN IN VITRO

Abstract Percutaneous penetration and metabolism of nitroglycerin (GTN) in vitro were compared in viable rat skin (perfused with minimal essential medium (MEM)) and nonviable rat skin (perfused with phosphate-buffered saline (PBSA)) in flow-through diffusion cells. The fraction of nitrates penetrating as dinitrate metabolites was significantly greater in MEM-perfused skin than in PBSA-perfused skin, while the fraction of nitrates penetrating as GTN was significantly less. Moreover, differences between MEM and PBSA in the fraction of absorbed nitrates present as GTN coincided in time with the loss of metabolizing capacity in PBSA-perfused skin, supporting the notion that it was the loss of metabolic capacity which led to an increase in GTN penetration. Over the 24 h experimental period, 29% of the GTN penetrating the MEM-perfused skin was metabolized and 71% of the absorbed dose was present as GTN, whereas only 14% of GTN penetrating PBSA-perfused skin was metabolized and 86% of the absorbed dose was present as GTN. These results demonstrate that metabolic viability of skin in vitro can affect not only the degree of cutaneous metabolism of penetrating compounds but also their rates of penetration
Cloning and Functional Characterization of a Novel Aquaporin fromXenopus laevis Oocytes

Abstract We have cloned a novel aquaporin (AQP) fromXenopus laevis oocytes, which we have provisionally named AQPxlo. The predicted protein showed highest homology (39–50%) to aquaglyceroporins. Northern blot analysis showed strong hybridization to an ∼1.4-kb transcript in X. laevis fat body and oocytes, whereas a weaker signal was obtained in kidney. We injected in vitro transcribed cRNA encoding AQPxlo into Xenopus oocytes for functional characterization. AQPxlo expression increased osmotic water permeability (P f), as well as the uptake of glycerol and urea. However, AQPxlo excluded larger polyols and thiourea. An alkaline extracellular pH (pHo) increasedP f and to a lesser extent urea uptake but not glycerol uptake. Remarkably, low HgCl2 concentrations (0.3–10 μm) reduced P f and urea uptake, whereas high concentrations (300–1000 μm) reversed the inhibition. We propose that AQPxlo is a new AQP paralogue unknown in mammals.
Phase II trial of ICRF-187 in children with solid tumors and acute leukemia.

ICRF-187 is the (+) enantiomer of the racemic mixture razoxane (ICRF-159). This compound is much more water soluble and thus could be formulated for parental use. The maximum tolerated dose in children after phase I trials was determined to be 3500 mg/M2/day × 3 days. A phase II trial of ICRF-187 was done in 21 children with solid tumors and 35 children with acute leukemia. All these patients were < 21 years of age, had recovered from previous chemotherapy, had normal liver and kidney functions, and had a life expectancy of greater than 4 weeks. ICRF-187 was administered at a dose of 3 g/M2/day for 3 days as a 4 hour infusion each day. In patients with leukemia, no objective response was seen in the bone marrow although a few patients had a decrease in peripheral blast count. There were no measurable responses seen in patients with a solid tumor. ICRF-187 was well tolerated. The major toxicity was hematopoietic depression. Significant but rare toxicities included moderate to severe nausea and vomiting, and elevation of bilirubin and transaminases. Although inactive in the current study, ICRF-187 might be more active in another schedule.
Androgen Disorders in Children: Too Much, Too Early, Too Little, or Too Late

Pubarche, used here as synonymous with the onset of sexual hair (Tanner pubic hair stage III), usually follows the onset of true puberty by one to two years. The true status of puberty is best indicated by testicular size in boys and breast development in girls. Departure from this sequence of events, or dissociation of pubic hair from gonadal development are important clues to proper diagnosis when pubarche begins prematurely. Hirsutism or acne in adolescent girls, particularly when associated with menstrual irregularity or obesity, has a high probability of having an androgenic basis. Polycystic ovary syndrome is the most common cause of this situation in teenagers. The pattern of sex hormone levels can be an important clue to the diagnosis of hyperandrogenic disorders, particularly when coupled with a "low-dose," five-day dexamethasone suppression test. Delayed puberty is usually a "constitutional," familial variant of normal development, but can often be distinguished from true hypogonadism by the mid-teenage years using history, examination, steroid 1evels, and a gonadotropin-releasing hormone test. ANDROGENS Testosterone and dehydroepian-drosterone-sulfate (DHAS) are the most important androgens in blood (Fig 1). Testosterone is the major potent form of circulating androgen. DHAS is the most abundant circulating 17-ketosteroid. The normal plasma and urine levels of the androgens are shown in Table 1.
Reducing Jagged 1 and 2 levels prevents cerebral arteriovenous malformations in matrix Gla protein deficiency

Cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are common vascular malformations, which may result in hemorrhagic strokes and neurological deficits. Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and Notch signaling are both involved in the development of cerebral AVMs, but the cross-talk between the two signaling pathways is poorly understood. Here, we show that deficiency of matrix Gla protein (MGP), a BMP inhibitor, causes induction of Notch ligands, dysregulation of endothelial differentiation, and the development of cerebral AVMs in MGP null (Mgp−/−) mice. Increased BMP activity due to the lack of MGP induces expression of the activin receptor-like kinase 1, a BMP type I receptor, in cerebrovascular endothelium. Subsequent activation of activin receptor-like kinase 1 enhances expression of Notch ligands Jagged 1 and 2, which increases Notch activity and alters the expression of Ephrin B2 and Ephrin receptor B4, arterial and venous endothelial markers, respectively. Reducing the expression of Jagged 1 and 2 in the Mgp−/− mice by crossing them with Jagged 1 or 2 deficient mice reduces Notch activity, normalizes endothelial differentiation, and prevents cerebral AVMs, but not pulmonary or renal AVMs. Our results suggest that Notch signaling mediates and can modulate changes in BMP signaling that lead to cerebral AVMs.
Correlation of patient and caregiver ratings of cancer pain

Undertreatment of cancer pain is widely recognized. This study sought to determine if inadequate communication about pain intensity between health care providers and their patients could represent a significant factor interfering with the control of cancer pain. One hundred and three consecutive patients with solid tumors and normal mental status examinations were screened within 48 hr during two study periods. The intensity of patient pain was assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS) which was given to the patient, his/her primary care nurse, house officer and medical oncology fellow. Sixty-three percent of the patients were taking narcotic analgesics on admission to the hospital. Although there was a correlation between patient and health care provider ratings for the entire group, no statistically significant correlation between the patient's VAS pain score and that of his/her nurse, house officer, or oncology fellow was present in the 44 patients with VAS greater than or equal to 4.0. Agreement between patient and caregiver VAS scores was also examined. When patients rated their pain from 7-10 on the VAS scale, nurses, house officers, and oncology fellows would place their rating of the patient's pain in this range 7%, 20%, and 27% of the time, respectively. Improved correspondence was noted with lower patient VAS scores. This study demonstrates that health care provider impressions of patient pain are often quite different than those of the patient and that these discrepancies are most pronounced in patients with significant pain. The routine use of pain assessment tools, such as the VAS, could enhance patient-caregiver communication and improve care for patients with cancer pain.
An aspect-oriented approach to the undergraduate programming language curriculum

Three key forces are shaping the modern Computer Science (CS) curriculum: (1) new topics/courses are squeezing out existing ones; (2) a focus on "big picture" and interdisciplinary aspects of CS is leading to curricula in which the traditional core courses + electives model is being superseded by a more flexible approach based on tracks/threads; and (3) project-based courses are increasingly relying on a notion of just-in-time teaching in which particular skills are not bundled into a particular course, but are covered at a point when they are needed for particular project work.The undergraduate programming language curriculum is feeling the pressure of these forces. Core courses on programming languages and compilers are being changed to electives, relegated to a software/systems track, or phased out altogether. Particular programming languages and programming language concepts are being taught in a more piecemeal fashion on an as-needed basis. Unfortunately, these changes make it increasingly likely that CS majors can graduate without being exposed to certain "big ideas" of programming languages.Programming languages (along with many other subdisciplines of CS) contains ideas that every well-educated computer scientist needs to know and which are relevant to a wide variety of projects/careers. In a CS curriculum based on tracks and projects, how can we ensure that vital intellectual components are not lost in the shuffle?One way to think about this problem is to view the CS curriculum as a collection of aspects that can be combined in different arrangements to produce various projects/courses. In this paper, we consider the benefits and challenges of an aspect-oriented view of the CS curriculum, particularly in regard to programming language concepts.
Rarefied Background Flow in a Vacuum Chamber

Pa. In this study, several free molecular models are developed to analyze the background flow inside a vacuum chamber. These models lead to various sets of analytical results including velocity distribution functions for the background flow and formulas to compute the vacuum pump absorption coefficient. In the present study, the models are applied to analyze the rarefied background flow in a specific vacuum chamber. The results indicate that, with specific parameters, the background flow can have a significant nonzero mean velocity and cannot be considered to have a Maxwellian velocity distribution. Several modifications of the background flow treatment for numerical simulations are proposed with the aid of these analytical results.
Delayed Field Transient Photocurrent Measurements in a-Si:H

We have measured the transient photocurrent in “time-of-flight” structures of a-Si:H using bias voltages applied following photocarrier generation by a laser flash. The delayed field technique appears promising both as a probe of the deep level distribution and also of photocarrier thermalization. We describe a simplified theory for the delayed field transients including the effects of the delay time and the magnitude of the applied voltage. The theory accounts for the measurements adequately.
Locus coeruleus neuron growth cones and spinal cord regeneration

One of the major impediments to successful recovery of function after a spinal cord injury is thought to be the reaction of the neuronal growth cone to inhibitory influences in the local environment in or around the site of the injury. The growth cones of locus coeruleus neurons studied in vitro collapsed upon contact with an extract of CNS myelin but did not collapse on contact with an extract of PNS myelin. Coincident with the collapse of the growth cone, was an increase in internal free calcium concentration that was predominantly the result of an influx of calcium through channels in the plasma membrane. Omega-conotoxin, which specifically blocks N-type voltage-gated calcium channels, blocked both the myelin-induced calcium influx and the coincident collapse of the growth cone.
Forecasting the motion of tropical cyclones using a numerically derived steering current and its bias

Abstract The vector motion of severe tropical cyclones (including storm, hurricane/typhoon stages) is forecasted by a numerical scheme which involves two steps: a. Numerical geostrophic steering of the center of the cyclone using the U.S. Navy Fleet Numerical Weather Facility's (FN WF) operationally produced smoothed isobaric height fields, called SR. The tropical perturbations are steered in 1-hr. time steps up to 72 hr., using winds derived from the SR analysis dated closest to warning time. SR 500 mb. in the Pacific and SR 700 mb. in the Atlantic gave the most accurate forecasts on tests of 10 northwest Pacific typhoons and all five north Atlantic tropical storms and hurricanes in the period Aug. 15–Nov. 1, 1965. Forecasts were made twice daily, 0600 and 1800 gmt, during this period using the best track information. b. Next, the numerical-steering prediction is objectively modified to adjust for bias (i.e., deficiency in both zonal and meridional motion) by utilizing errors made in the most recent. 12-...
Lymphedema, yellow nails, and a persistent cough

From U Fund Conf Corre U A 70-year-old woman presents with a 5-year history of discolored nails. She also reports a chronic cough with repeated episodes of sinusitis for the past 7 years. The physical examination reveals thickened, yellow fingernails and toenails, along with extensive lymphedema of her lower extremities complicated by bilateral ankle deformities (Figs 1 and 2). Yellow nail syndrome is a rare condition characterized by the clinical triad of lymphedema, yellow nails, and any of a number of respiratory manifestations.
The Electron Microsopic Features of Sinus Histiocytosis with Massive Lymphadenopathy: A Study of 11 Cases

Eleven cases of sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy (SHML) involving lymph nodes were studied electron microscopically. Histiocytes were the most conspicuous element of the infiltrate. They could be divided into small and large forms, although transitions were apparent among them. Most of the small histiocytes were located in the medullary cords. The large histiocytes were predominantly seen within sinuses and were subdivided into two types on the basis of their appearance. The most distinctive feature of these histiocytes was the presence of lymphocytes, plasma cells, and neutrophils within their cytoplasm. Other cells present in the infiltrate were lymphocytes, plasma cells, and occasional neutrophils and mast cells. Blood vessels were prominent throughout. Virus particles, bacteria, and Langerhans granules were consistently absent. No morphologic clues were provided by this study as to the etiology of this disorder.