cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Identification of a Human Enterocyte Lipoxin A4 Receptor That Is Regulated by Interleukin (IL)-13 and Interferon γ and Inhibits Tumor Necrosis Factor α–induced IL-8 Release

Epithelial cells of the alimentary tract play a central role in mucosal immunophysiology. Pathogens and/or agonists that interact with mucosal surfaces often elicit epithelial responses that upregulate inflammation. Therefore, it was of interest to explore potential epithelial targeted antiinflammatory signals. Here we identified and sequenced a human enterocyte lipoxin (LX) A4 [5(S), 6(R),15(S)-trihydroxy-7,9,13-trans-11-cis eicosatetraenoic acid] receptor, and demonstrate that transcription of this receptor was controlled by cytokines, of which lymphocyte-derived interleukin (IL)-13 and interferon gamma were the most potent. When lipoxins and LXA4 stable analogs were evaluated for enterocyte functional as well as immune responses, lipoxins sharply inhibited TNF-alpha-induced IL-8 release but did not alter either barrier function or agonist-stimulated chloride secretion. 15R/S-methyl-LXA4 and 16-phenoxy-LXA4 each attenuated (IC50 approximately 10 nM) IL-8 release. Cyclooxygenase (COX) II is emerging as an important component in wound healing and proliferation in intestinal epithelia and when acetylated by acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) initiates the biosynthesis of a LXA4 receptor ligand. We therefore determined whether colonic cell lines (HT-29 Cl.19A, Caco-2, or T84) express the COX II isozyme. Results for RT-PCR and Western blot analysis showed that COX I as well as an IL-1beta- and TNF-alpha-inducible COX II are expressed in HT-29 Cl.19A. In addition, aspirin-treated enterocytes generated 15R-HETE, a precursor of 15-epi-LXA4 biosynthesis, whose potent bioactions were mimicked by the stable analog 15R/S-methyl-LXA4. Taken together, these results identify an endogenous pathway for downregulating mucosal inflammatory events and suggest a potential therapeutic benefit for LXA4 stable analogs.
Heterologous enzyme function in Escherichia coli and the selection of genes encoding the catalytic RNA subunit of RNase P.

Abstract The gene for the catalytic RNA subunit of RNase P has been isolated from several Enterobacteriaceae by complementation of an Escherichia coli strain that is temperature-sensitive for RNase P activity. The selection procedure relies on the ability of the heterologous gene products to function enzymatically in E. coli. This procedure obviates the need for positive results in DNA blot hybridization experiments or for the purification of holoenzyme to identify the RNA component of RNase P and its corresponding gene from organisms other than E. coli. Comparisons of the variations in sequences provide the basis for a refined two-dimensional model of the secondary structure of M1 RNA.
Back to the roots: boron geochemistry of mud volcanoes and its implications for mobilization depth and global B cycling

At convergent margins, fluid flux through active mud volcanoes (MVs) has been estimated to exceed that of the frontal accretionary prism, and may have done so in earlier earth history. Often, however, it is largely unknown how deep mud volcanoes root within accretionary wedges and orogenic belts. We report results from a systematic geochemical study of fluids and clays/claystones from mud volcanoes around the world using the mobile element boron as depth indicator for progressive diagenesis. Boron shows maximum enrichment in the fluid phase, owing to desorption in the mud, when faulting roots deepest and deformation is strongest. Deep-seated, B-rich fluids liquefy clay-bearing strata to facilitate extrusion, allowing the clay to re-adsorb and incorporate large quantities of B in the process. Given the abundance and high discharge rates of mud volcanoes along subduction zones, we propose that this process has to be considered a major backflux mechanism in global B cycling from the lithosphere into the hydrosphere.
SU-E-J-73: Effect of 4D-CT Image Artifacts On the 3D Lung Registration Accuracy: A Parametric Study Using a GPU-Accelerated Multi-Resolution Multi-Level Optical Flow

Purpose: To perform a parametric study of the effect of registration parameters on 4D‐CT image registration accuracy.Methods and Materials: A GPU based 4D‐CT image registration that registers the 4D lung anatomy using a multi‐level multi‐contrast optical flow was used for this study. A set of 14 4D‐CT datasets was employed for this study. The multi‐level lung anatomy was segmented into the surface contour, blood vessels and parenchyma regions using OsiriX. The registration started at the lowest resolution of a 3D volume. Within each resolution level, the volumes were registered using optical flow. The motion field was first computed for surface contour pairs in the lowest resolution. At this stage, all the voxels except those on the surface contour (the lowest level of anatomical representation) were not included. GPU based Thin‐Plate Splines was applied to the motion field so that voxels surrounding the surface contour had an initial displacement motion, which was closer to the actual value. The motion field was iteratively updated until the highest (original) resolution of the volume was processed. Results: The GPU implementation provided a speed‐up of >50x as compared to the CPU implementation. The registration accuracy varied non‐linearly with the kernel size. For both kernel size and smoothness factor, a non‐linear correlation was observed towards the registration accuracy with an optimal value being 5 cu.mm and 200, respectively. The accuracy improved with the number of resolution and contrast levels with 4 and 3, respectively, providing optimal registration accuracy. Finally, usage of the first 3 anatomical level representations provided the optimum registration accuracy as opposed to 4 or more levels. Conclusion: A parametric 4D image registration analyses showed its relationship to the registration accuracy to be non‐linear. A patient breathing and CT‐scanner specific study will quantitatively relate the registration errors on treatment planning and delivery.
Persistent internal polarization in poly(ethylene terephthalate) films. VI. Orientation and conductivity in amorphous material

Abstract Amorphous films of poly(ethylene terephthalate), commercially extruded but unoriented, are nevertheless shown to possess orientations that can be thermally depolarized. Conductivity studies on such films, subsequent to depolarization, have shown that, as with the commercial, oriented material, protons are the charge carriers. Comparison with commercial films shows that intentional biaxial orientation decreases both the pre-exponen-tial and exponential terms in the conductivity equation.
Neonatal Neutrophil Activation is a Function of Labor Length. † 1105

Neonatal leukocytosis, and more specifically, neutrophilia, are associated with vaginal delivery as opposed to cesarean section. We evaluated the role of labor duration in the expression of neonatal leukocyte cell surface antigens associated with the immune response.
An investigation of abnormal products in the reaction of benzyl and 2‐thenyl grignard reagents with 14C‐carbon dioxide

An investigation of the abnormal products formed in the carbonation of benzyl and 2-thenyl Grignard reagents has been carried out. Using the reverse isotope dilution technique, it has been shown that neither ortho- nor para-toluic acids are formed in measurable amounts during the reaction of benzylmagnesium bromide with carbon dioxide. 2-Thenylmagnesium chloride reacts to produce acids, about 64% of which is the normal product, 2-thienylacetic acid, 30% the ortho -abnormal product, 2-methyl-3-thenoic acid, and probably a small amount (1.0 – 1.5%) is the Para -abnormal product, 5-methyl-2-thenoic acid.
Hamsters Running on Time: Is the Lateral Habenula a Part of the Clock?

Previous anatomical and physiological studies have implicated the lateral habenula, and especially its medial division (LHbM), as a candidate component of the circadian timing system in rodents. We assayed lateral habenula rhythmicity in rodents using c-FOS immunohistochemistry and found a robust rhythm in immunoreactive cell counts in the LHbM, with higher counts during the dark phase of a light-dark (LD) cycle and during subjective night in constant darkness. We have also observed an obvious asymmetry of c-FOS expression in the LHbM of behaviorally "split" hamsters in constant light, but only during their active phase (when they were running in wheels). Locomotor activity rhythms appear to be regulated by the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) via multiple output pathways, one of which might be diffusible while the other might be neural, involving the lateral habenula.
Bioactive complement fragments in immunoregulation.

Abstract Several fragments derived from complement components have been identified as potent effector substances in in vitro assays that measure cell proliferation and antibody synthesis. The anaphylatoxin C3a suppresses the immune response but fails to influence T- or B-cell proliferation. The factor C5a augments both antibody production and antigen-induced, but not mitogen-induced, T-cell proliferation. C3a-mediated suppression occurs through the activation of a suppressor T-cell cascade with macrophage collaboration. C5a-mediated enhancement, depending upon the in vitro system studied, acts at the level of the helper T cell and/or macrophage. A fragment generated from treating iC3b with kallikrein (C3d-K) has aided in defining a structural region of the C3b molecule that can influence the level of circulating leukocytes. The factor C3d-K is also capable of suppressing both specific and non-specific T-cell proliferative responses and mitogen-induced B cell growth. The mechanism of C3d-K action is defined as a direct effect on “activated” T cells, even though IL-2 synthesis of treated cells is diminished. The effect of C3d-K is long lasting, non-reversible and requires only a short exposure to the target cell.
Radial atomic distribution in liquid helium—4 by X-ray scattering

Abstract Measurements have been made of the scattering of Cu K α X-rays (λ = 1.54 A) from liquid helium at several temperatures between 1.4 and 4.2°K, and from gaseous helium at 4.2°K in the same apparatus. The measurements were made with a low-background proportional counter over a range of scattering angles from 1.5° to 90° at 1.4 and 4.2°K, and for lesser angular ranges at other temperatures. The gas scattering gives a new comparison with theory for the total differential scattering cross-section of the helium atom. The liquid structure factor is found to be unity within the experimental enor in the angular range from 65° to 90°, and it seems reasonable to assume that it remains unity for larger angles. On this assumption the radial atomic distribution for the liquid is computed by using the standard Fourier inversion procedure. Estimates are made of the mean separation of nearest neighbors in the liquid, as well as the co-ordination number at the various temperatures.
Multimode phase-matched third-harmonic generation in sub-micrometer-wide anatase TiO_2 waveguides

Third-harmonic generation (THG) has applications ranging from wavelength conversion to pulse characterization, and has important implications for quantum sources of entangled photons. However, on-chip THG devices are nearly unexplored because bulk techniques are difficult to adapt to integrated photonic circuits. Using sub-micrometer-wide polycrystalline anatase TiO2 waveguides, we demonstrate third-harmonic generation on a CMOS-compatible platform. We correlate higher conversion efficiencies with phase-matching between the fundamental pump mode and higher-order signal modes. Using scattered light, we estimate conversion efficiencies as high as 2.5% using femtosecond pulses, and thus demonstrate that multimode TiO2 waveguides are promising for wideband wavelength conversion and new applications ranging from sensors to triplet-photon sources.
Double-strength beclomethasone dipropionate (84 μg/spray) aqueous nasal spray in the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis

Abstract BACKGROUND: The use of intranasally administered corticosteroid sprays is an established treatment option for seasonal allergic rhinitis. METHODS: In this double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter study, 438 patients with moderate to severe symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis were treated for 4 weeks with double-strength beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP) aqueous nasal spray (84 μg/spray: BDP-ds), once daily; regular-strength BDP (42 μg/spray: BDP-rs), twice daily; high-strength BDP (336 μg/spray: BDP-hs), once daily; or placebo. BDP-hs was included as a safety comparison group. All treatments were given as two sprays per nostril. RESULTS: Physician-rated nasal symptom scores were significantly improved in all three active treatment groups compared with those of the placebo group within the initial 3 days of treatment. Improvement was maintained throughout the 4-week treatment period. BDP-ds and BDP-rs were equivalent at all time points. The BDP-ds, BDP-rs, and BDP-hs groups had greater numbers of patients with a good or excellent therapeutic response at end point than the placebo group. All treatments were well-tolerated, and no unexpected adverse events were reported. No effects on laboratory evaluations or vital signs were evident for any treatment group. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study show that BDP-ds given once a day and BDP-rs given twice a day in the same total daily dose are comparably safe and effective in the treatment of patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis. (J ALLERGY CLIN IMMUNOL 1996;98:302-8.)
Characterization of springtime leads in the Beaufort/Chukchi Seas from airborne and satellite observations during FIRE/SHEBA

[1] Airborne remote sensing observations in the vicinity of the Surface Heat Budget of the Arctic Ocean (SHEBA) camp in the Beaufort and Chukchi Seas during May 1998 are used to characterize leads. This characterization was accomplished using observations from a passive microwave radiometer, video camera, and infrared pyrometer. An automated methodology is presented to determine lead fraction, width, and orientation. Refrozen lead fraction decreased in the latter half of May, due in part to local convergence in the ice pack. Airborne passive microwave and video observations are combined to produce a lead width distribution for the SHEBA region. Narrow leads are most prevalent, with lead fraction decreasing exponentially with increasing lead width. Lead orientation showed a preference in a northwesterly direction, which is consistent with prevailing wind patterns and ocean circulation. The lead width distribution and lead orientation observed by the airborne sensors are similar to the characteristics derived from an advanced very high resolution radiometer (AVHRR) albedo image encompassing the Beaufort/Chukchi Seas during the same time period. The AVHRR albedos in the SHEBA vicinity are also comparable to the larger region. These similarities suggest that the area of study used by SHEBA investigators was representative of the Western Arctic during this time period for these surface characteristics.
Induction of genetic tandem duplications in Salmonella by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon and amine carcinogens

6 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon or similar amine carcinogens were tested as inducers of genetic tandem duplications in a rough strain of Salmonella typhimurium. When metabolically activated by rat-liver microsomes, all 6 were active in inducing genetic tandem duplications, yielding from over 3 times to almost 14 times as many tandem duplicants per viable bacterium as did concurrent uninduced control cultures. These results extend the number and chemical diversity of carcinogens shown to induce genetic duplications in bacterial tester systems. We suggest that polycyclic hydrocarbon carcinogens may act in carcinogenesis by inducing genetic duplications or other genetic rearrangements. Duplication induction may be a useful genetic endpoint for screening potential carcinogens.
TH-C-218-03: IGRT in Prostate Cancer: The Calypso 4D Localization System

There is mounting evidence that for prostate cancer patients treated with EBRT,dose escalation to the prostate increases local control. This benefit comes at the cost of toxicities and complications. Therefore, restricting the dose to normal tissue becomes of utmost importance. Image guidance for accurate treatment delivery and intra‐fraction motion monitoring is critical in this environment of dose escalation and hypo fractionation.A variety of systems could be utilized for this purpose, such as transabdominal ultrasound, KV X‐rays, and KV/MV CBCT. However, these systems have several disadvantages: they only provide snapshots of the prostate position; they are not available during radiation delivery; they cause an additional ionizing radiation exposure; and they may be subjective and operator dependant in acquisition and interpretation. A newer technology using non ionizing electromagnetic field and implanted fiducial markers (transponders) to locate and track patient tumors is available by Calypso Medical. In this presentation, our experience with IMRT and SBRT prostate treatments at the Cleveland Clinic will be presented. The treatment plans are generated with the Pinnacle treatment planning system, the localization and tracking is performed by the 4D Calypso system, and the treatment delivery is done on an Elekta Synergy S linac. Learning Objectives: 1. Understand the clinical rationale for localization and tracking 2. Understand the necessity of hybrid technologies and systems 3. Understand the physics behind the Calypso localization mechanism and its principles of operation 4. Understand operational and quality assurance aspects of Calypso combined with Synergy‐S and Pinnacle TPS 5. Understand the technical limitations of the hybrid system 6. Describe clinical implementation of the system and typical cases treated
Shooting string holography of jet quenching at RHIC and LHC

We derive a new formula for jet energy loss using finite endpoint momentum shooting strings initial conditions in SYM plasmas to overcome the difficulties of previous falling string holographic scenarios. We apply the new formula to compute the nuclear modification factor RAA and the elliptic flow parameter v2 of light hadrons at RHIC and LHC. We show furthermore that Gauss–Bonnet quadratic curvature corrections to the AdS5 geometry improve the agreement with the recent data.
Lysis of allogeneic and syngeneic target cells by primary cytotoxic T lymphocytes induced in vitro by Drosophila melanogaster cells.

Abstract Incubation of unprimed splenocytes directly with synthetic peptides induces CD8 + primary CTL in vitro. The ability of peptide-pretreated LPS blasts or H-2D b -expressing Drosophila melanogaster cells to induce peptide-reactive primary CTL was analysed using synthetic peptides corresponding to distinct and overlapping amino acids in SV40 T antigen D b -restricted T-cell epitopes I, II–III, and V. Peptide-pretreated, but not untreated, LPS blasts induced strong peptide-reactive CTL in splenocytes of naive C57 BL/6 mice. The reactivity of these CTL was indistinguishable from that of CTL induced by direct stimulation of spleen cells with peptides. In contrast, effector cells induced by untreated or peptide-pretreated drosophila cells expressed equivalent cytolysis both against untreated and peptide-pretreated syngeneic target cells. They also strongly lysed the allogeneic (H-2 d ) P815 target cells. The cytolytic activity was expressed by CD8 + T lymphocytes. However, the lack of specificity and restriction was probably due to stimulation of LAK cells as well. The CTL-inducing potential of the drosophila cells was stable at 46°C. Peptide-activated splenocytes cultured for 1 month in medium supplemented with spent medium from drosophila growth culture were 75% B cells and 25% CD4 + T cells. Taken together, these results indicated that LPS blasts are efficient APC for induction of primary CTL and that drosophila cell-derived molecule(s) are capable of inducing broad-reactive effector cells and may also assume the function of leukocyte growth factor(s).
Analysis of fuel decay routes in the high-temperature oxidation of 1-methylnaphthalene

Abstract 1-Methylnaphthalene exhibits first-order decay during early extents of oxidation in a flow reactor at approximately 1200 K. Using temporal profiles of measured stable intermediate species and reaction path analysis, estimates are made of the radical species mole fractions that necessarily exist near steady state under these conditions. The radical estimates are found to be similar to previous estimations and computations of radical mole fractions in the flow reactor oxidation of toluene, the monocyclic aromatic analog of 1-methylnaphthalene. Computation of overall fuel decay rates using the estimated radical concentrations shows good agreement with the measured 1-methylnaphthalene consumption for all of the experimentally investigated stoichiometries, giving convincing evidence for the validity of the proposed consumption routes. Computed fuel decay path fluxes reveal that under flow reactor conditions abstraction of a “benzylic” hydrogen from the methyl side chain dominates consumption of 1-methylnaphthalene, although O atom addition to the aromatic ring, displacement of the side chain by H atom, and homolytic decay also contribute significantly. Changes in the 1-methylnaphthalene decay mechanism under higher temperature combustion environments and the oxidation mechanisms of even larger polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are postulated.
A rapid method for isolation of human mononuclear cells free of significant platelet contamination

Abstract In order to obtain mononuclear cells from peripheral human blood for the study of cell surface receptors, it was necessary to effectively eliminate contaminating platelets. The usual Hypaque-Ficoll isolation procedures were found to produce mononuclear cells contaminated with 10–1000 platelets per mononuclear cell (by phase microscopy). Multiple slow speed centrifugations reduced the contamination to 5–10 platelets per mononuclear cell. However, centrifugation of EDTA-anticoagulated blood through Hypaque (D 20 20 1.060) at 400 × g for 5 min at 22°C followed by the usual Hypaque-Ficoll gradient reduced platelet contamination to
All politics is local: The effect of fiscal and monetary constitutions on economic policy

Abstract The rules of behavior for the monetary authorities changed in 1933 and 1947 and the Fed temporarily changed its operating procedures in 1979, but these changes did not alter the fact that the monetary authorities serve as the agent of the fiscal authorities. On the fiscal side, a shift from a centralized process to one where Congress was composed of a set of individual entrepreneurs altered the fiscal focus from the national economy to one of localized interests. This change led to a more autoregressive and deficit-prone federal budget and changed the interaction between monetary and fiscal policy. It also elevated the status of monetary policy to the extent where financial markets react to every utterance from the monetary authorities.
Sources of stigma for means-tested government programs

Stigma has been shown to discourage participation in means-tested government programs. Prior research cannot explain why this deterrent effect varies in intensity across different individuals and programs. We develop a more comprehensive model of the possible determinants of stigma associated with means-tested programs than has previously been suggested by studies of welfare stigma. We test hypotheses using unique data based on interviews with 1405 respondents in 10 states and the District of Columbia, USA. The results suggest that there are two distinct forms of stigma related to participation in means-tested government programs: one related to self-identity, the other to the anticipation of negative treatment. Both forms of stigma are more pronounced for Welfare compared to Medicaid. The sources of stigma identified by conventional treatments of welfare stigma (e.g., individual attributions of responsibility for poverty) have significant explanatory power, but neglect other important influences. We find that stigma is exacerbated by poor health and by minority status. Stigma is also fostered by the ways in which means-tested programs are implemented, including negative interactions with case workers, long waiting times, and, for Medicaid, applications for benefits in alternative enrollment sites such as health centers or hospitals. These findings suggest new points of leverage for addressing the potentially deleterious consequences of stigma.
SPARC Gene Expression is Repressed in Human Urothelial Cells (UROtsa) Exposed to or Malignantly Transformed by Cadmium or Arsenite

SPARC belongs to a class of extracellular matrix-associated proteins that have counteradhesive properties. The ability of SPARC to modulate cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions provides a strong rationale for studies designed to determine its expression in cancer. The objective of this study was to determine if SPARC expression was altered in cadmium (Cd(2+)) and arsenite (As(3+)) induced bladder cancer and if these alterations were present in archival specimens of human bladder cancer. The expression of SPARC was determined in human parental UROtsa cells, their Cd(2+) and As(3+) transformed counterparts and derived tumors, and in archival specimens of human bladder cancer using a combination of real time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, immunofluorescence localization and immunohistochemical staining. It was demonstrated that SPARC expression was down-regulated in Cd(2+) and As(3+) transformed UROtsa cells. In addition, the malignant epithelial component of tumors derived from these cell lines were also down-regulated for SPARC expression, but the stromal cells recruited to these tumors was highly reactive for SPARC. This finding was shown to translate to specimens of human bladder cancer where tumor cells were SPARC negative, but stromal cells were positive. Acute exposure of UROtsa cells to both cadmium and arsenite reduced the expression of SPARC through a mechanism that did not involve changes in DNA methylation or histone acetylation. These studies suggest that environmental exposure to As(3+) or Cd(2+) can alter cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions in normal urothelial cells through a reduction in the expression of SPARC. The SPARC associated loss of cell-cell and cell-matrix contacts may participate in the multi-step process of bladder carcinogenesis.
Erratum to Data mining a diabetic data warehouse

Diabetes is a major health problem in the United States. There is a long history of diabetic registries and databases with systematically collected patient information. We examine one such diabetic data warehouse, showing a method of applying data mining techniques, and some of the data issues, analysis problems, and results. The diabetic data warehouse is from a large integrated health care system in the New Orleans area with 30,383 diabetic patients. Methods for translating a complex relational database with time series and sequencing information to a flat file suitable for data mining are challenging. We discuss two variables in detail, a comorbidity index and the HgbA1c, a measure of glycemic control related to outcomes. We used the classification tree approach in Classification and Regression Trees (CART^(R)) with a binary target variable of HgbA1c >9.5 and 10 predictors: age, sex, emergency department visits, office visits, comorbidity index, dyslipidemia, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, retinopathy and end-stage renal disease. Unexpectedly, the most important variable associated with bad glycemic control is younger age, not the comorbiditity index or whether patients have related diseases. If we want to target diabetics with bad HgbA1c values, the odds of finding them is 3.2 times as high in those <65 years of age than those older. Data mining can discover novel associations that are useful to clinicians and administrators.
Novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of type 2 diabetes

Diabetes mellitus is the most common endocrine disease, accounting for over 200 million people affected worldwide. It is characterized by a lack of insulin secretion and/or increased cellular resistance to insulin, resulting in hyperglycemia and other metabolic disturbances. People with diabetes suffer from increased morbidity and premature mortality related to cardiovascular, microvascular and neuropathic complications. The Diabetes Control and Complication Trial (DCCT) has convincingly demonstrated the relationship of hyperglycemia to the development and progression of complications and showed that improved glycemic control reduced these complications. Although the DCCT exclusively studied patients with Type 1 diabetes, there is ample evidence to support the belief that the same relationship between metabolic control and clinical outcome exists in patients with Type 2 diabetes. Therefore, a major effort should be made to develop and implement more effective treatment regimes. This article reviews those novel drugs that have been recently introduced for the management of Type 2 diabetes, or that have reached an advanced level of study and will soon be proposed for preliminary clinical trials. They include: (i) compounds that promote the synthesis/secretion of insulin by the β-cell; (ii) inhibitors of the α-glucosidase activity of the small intestine; (iii) substances that enhance the action of insulin at the level of the target tissues; and (iv) inhibitors of free fatty acid oxidation. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
What Did You Get? A Faculty Grade Comparison.

Purpose – This study investigates how the increased use of part‐time and nontenure‐track instructors may result in grade inflation.Design/methodology/approach – This research uses ten years of registrar data at a Midwest State (USA) institution to perform a multiple regression grade analysis.Findings – Evidence is found that part‐time and nontenure‐track instructors give higher grades even after accounting for many alternative explanations for grade differences.Research limitations/implications – The source for the data used for the study is one public institution. Additional studies from a wider range of institution types would be necessary before more definite conclusions can be drawn.Originality/value – This paper extends the work performed by a number of other authors by analyzing a significantly longer‐time period and by using data not specific to a particular discipline. In addition, this study expands upon past studies by including full‐time nontenure‐track faculty whose numbers are increasing rapi...
Methods for analyzing occupational cohort data with application to lung cancer in U.S. Uranium miners

We used two methods to examine how lung cancer death rates vary with cumulative exposures to radiation and tobacco among U.S. uranium miners. We assumed that exposures act proportionately on age-specific death rates among nonsmokers who are unexposed to uranium. The two methods produced similar results when death rate ratios were taken to be the product of radiation and tobacco effects. The estimates were discrepant when death rate ratios were taken to be the sum of radiation and tobacco effects. Both methods indicated better fit for the multiplicative model, as judged by the maximized loglikelihood values. Death rates estimated in this way for white males in the absence of mining and smoking increased only weakly with age. This weak relation suggests that our models of death rates fit poorly. It may be that cumulative exposures are inappropriate measures of the effects of radiation and tobacco on lung cancer death rates.
Making diversity safe for democracy: American pluralism and the presidential local address, 1885–1992

Research suggests that modern U.S. presidents increasingly use the local address to speak to voters where they live, both literally and figuratively. Yet most explanations of these speeches suggest that their political efficacy is limited to winning votes. Here I call for a reconsideration of the local address as part of rhetorical presidents’ responses to U.S. citizens’ diversity. Specifically, I provide a historical‐critical account of why presidents may have been able to use the local address to manage American pluralism and then offer a reading of how they might have done so, using examples from 1885–1992.
Adolescents’ Perceptions of School Environment, Engagement, and Academic Achievement in Middle School

This short-term longitudinal research examined the relationships among middle school students’ perceptions of school environment, school engagement, and academic achievement. Participants were from a representative, ethnically diverse, urban sample of 1,046 students. The findings supported the theoretical conceptualization of three different, but related, dimensions of school engagement: school participation, sense of identification with school, and use of self-regulation strategies. The results also indicated that students’ perceptions of the distinct dimensions of school environment in seventh grade contribute differentially to the three types of school engagement in eighth grade. Finally, the authors found that students’ perceptions of school environment influenced their academic achievement directly and indirectly through the three types of school engagement. Specifically, students’ perceptions of school characteristics in seventh grade influenced their school participation, identification with school...
Intracardiac Injection of Radioactive Krypton: Clinical Applications of New Methods for Characterization of Circulatory Shunts

Following injection of krypton85 in solution into the right side of the heart, approximately 95 per cent is cleared during 1 passage through the pulmonary circulation. Arterial blood activity is low when radioactive Kr85 is injected in the absence of, or distal to, the origin of a right-to-left shunt. However, when injected proximal to the origin of such a shunt, a fraction of the Kr85 bypasses the pulmonary capillary bed and appears in arterial blood. Thirty to 50 µc. Kr85 were injected into the right heart, and arterial blood was sampled during the next 15 seconds. In 19 patients without right-to-left shunts, the activity per milliliter of arterial blood was always less than 9.0 x 10–5 and averaged 2.5 ± 2.6 x 10–5 of the total radioactivity injected. In 9 patients with proved right-to-left shunts, the radioactivity per milliliter of arterial blood always exceeded 8.2 x 10–5 and averaged 30.1 ± 12.2 x 10–5 of the total activity injected. By appropriate rearrangement of the Stewart-Hamilton formula the d...
Cluster-based probability model applied to image restoration and compression

The performance of a statistical signal processing system is determined in large part by the accuracy of the probabilistic model it employs. Accurate modeling often requires working in several dimensions, but doing so can introduce dimensionality-related difficulties. A previously introduced model circumvents some of these difficulties while maintaining accuracy sufficient to account for much of the high-order, nonlinear statistical interdependence of samples. Properties of this model are reviewed, and its power demonstrated by application to image restoration and compression. Also described is a vector quantization (VQ) scheme which employs the model in entropy coding a Z/sup N/-lattice. The scheme has the advantage over standard VQ of bounding maximum instantaneous errors. >
H1 and H2 histamine receptors in the in vitro nasal mucosa.

The effect of histamine was studied on canine nasal blood vessels with an in vitro muscle tension measuring technique. Observations suggest that histamine has at least four different effects: 1) inhibits the contraction induced by nerve terminal stimulation, 2) relaxes the smooth muscle under sustained contraction, 3) contracts the smooth muscle, 4) enhances (nor)epinephrine-induced contraction. Both H1 and H2 histamine receptors were identified in the mucosal blood vessels of the canine nasal septum. H1 receptors were present at the surface of vascular smooth muscle and mediated the contractile response (3) due to opening calcium influx channels. H2 receptors existed at both sympathetic nerve terminals and the muscle cell membrane. Stimulation of either H2 receptor caused muscle relaxation. The presynaptic H2 receptors mediated vasodilation through the inhibition of norepinephrine release from the nerve endings (1). Postsynaptic H2 receptors caused direct muscle relaxation possibly through an increase in...
Effect of exercise intensity on postexercise energy expenditure in women.

This study was designed to examine the effect of exercise intensity on the magnitude and duration of excess postexercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) in women. On separate days and in a counterbalanced order, seven moderately active young adult women performed a 850 kJ cycle ergometer exercise at an intensity of 40 or 60% of their previously determined peak oxygen uptake (VO2). Baseline VO2 and heart rate (HR) were recorded during the last 10 min of a 45 min seated rest. VO2 and HR were measured continuously during recovery until VO2 returned to baseline. There was no significant difference noted in the baseline measures between the two exercise programmes. Magnitude of EPOC was comparable (P greater than 0.05) being mean (s.d.) of 30(17) and 36(13) kJ after 40 and 60% exercises respectively. Although the EPOC duration was 53% longer following the 40% exercise than following 60% (27(15) min and 18(8) min, respectively) this difference was not statistically significant. These exercise conditions failed to produce a prolonged EPOC in the women of this study, and values recorded for magnitude of EPOC indicate that it was not significant with regard to the overall energy expenditure of the activity. It was concluded that both magnitude and duration of EPOC seemed to be independent of the chosen exercise intensities used by the women in this study.
Gender differences in achievement in a large, nationally representative sample of children and adolescents.

The purpose of this study was to investigate developmental gender differences in academic achievement areas, with the primary focus on writing, using the child and adolescent portion (ages 6-21 years) of the Kaufman Test of Educational AchievementSecond Edition, Brief Form, norming sample (N = 1,574). Path analytic models with gender, parent education, age, age(2), and gender-by-age moderation as predictors of reading, writing, and math were used to test for gender differences and for the influence of development on these differences. A small but consistent advantage was identified for females in reading. No gender differences were detected in math. The most important results of the present study pertain to a gender gap in writing in favor of females that increased as a function of age. Male students are at greater risk for writing failure than are females. (C) 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Potential Proteomic-Based Strategies for Understanding Laminitis: Predictions and Pathogenesis

Abstract With today's understanding of the genome, advanced molecular techniques, and our growing ability to analyze complex biologic data, proteomics, the broad-based study of the repertoire of proteins expressed by cells or organisms, offers great promise for understanding the causes of complex diseases. Identifying and measuring novel protein biomarkers present in blood that predict the onset and resolution of laminitis would both aid clinical management of at-risk equine patients and shed light on underlying mechanisms with the intent of developing novel preventive strategies and therapeutic approaches. Identifying alterations in the profiles of proteins present in tissues of horses that develop laminitis or within in vitro model systems also can advance our understanding of this puzzling disease.
Effects of spatial scale on the perception and assessment of risk of natural disturbance in forested ecosystems: Examples from Northeastern Oregon

Abstract The perception and measurement of the risk of natural disturbances often varies depending on the spatial and temporal scales over which information is collected or analyzed. This can lead to conflicting conclusions about severity of current or past disturbances or the risk of future ones. Failure to look across scales also complicates local implementation of policies developed from broad-scale perceptions of risk because perception of risk is relative and depends on context. Methods that help policymakers, managers, and the public look across spatial and temporal scales can improve their understanding of the long-term dynamics of disturbances like wildfire and insect outbreaks. This capability provides a foundation for prioritizing restoration management activities, especially in forest types prone to frequent or severe disturbances. Although techniques for estimating risk over increasingly large spatial scales are becoming more widespread, the connection of risk assessments from broad to fine scales is not well established. We use a synthesis of five existing analyses to illustrate how scale affects the perception and interpretation of risk as information, models, and findings are stepped down from broad scale (interior Columbia basin) to mid scale (parts of a river basins) to fine scale (watersheds). We present results from the Interior Columbia Basin Ecosystem Management Project (ICBEMP) and the Interior Northwest Landscape Analysis System (INLAS) efforts that compare wildfire risk and other resource attributes. Our findings compare action and no-action alternatives to illustrate the use of multiple-scale “step-down” analysis for understanding the relation of broad-scale policy to the feasibility and impact of local management.
Einstein's Interpretations of the Quantum Theory

This paper argues that Einstein subscribed to three distinct kinds of interpretations of the quantum theory: subjective, instrumental, and hidden variables interpretations. We explore the context and ihe content of Einstein's thinking over these interpretations, emphasizing Einstein's conception of his role not only as a critic of the new quantum theory but also as a guide pointing the way to better physics.
Moneyball: The Art of Winning the American Dental Association Membership Renewal Game

We analyzed 2010 Virginia Dental Association (VDA) membership data to identify predominant factors to American Dental Association (ADA)/VDA membership renewals. Multivariable regression analysis revealed that age, specialty, geographic location/local component, ADA years, VDA years, and dues payment percentage were related to renewals. Nonrenewals occur predominantly among newer members—those with ADA membership years <5 years, 6–10 years, and 11–15 years renew 81%, 94%, and 98% of the time, respectively (p =.0004). Newer members should be the target segment in relationship building. Further studies need to evaluate core services performance related to membership renewals, especially for this group.
Mesolimbic dopamine reward system hypersensitivity in individuals with psychopathic traits

Psychopathy is a disorder that has typically been considered to result from a primary deficit in fear or empathy. Here the authors find that impulsive-antisocial psychopathic traits are correlated with hyper-reactivity of the dopaminergic reward system as measured with positron emission tomography and functional magnetic resonance imaging.
Gastrointestinal dysfunction in postural tachycardia syndrome

Abstract Background Postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a dysautonomia defined by an exaggerated increase in heart rate upon changing posture. It is associated with disturbances involving multiple organ systems, including neurologic, dermatologic, and gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. Previous studies identified GI complaints in these patients and showed gastric emptying and electrical activity abnormalities. However, the full spectrum of GI symptoms and their impact on quality of life remains unclear. Methods A 30-question survey of GI symptoms was collected from 28 patients with POTS seen in the Boston Medical Center Autonomic Clinic. Answers were recorded on a Likert rating scale. Symptoms were positive if patients answered “strongly agree” or “agree” and negative if they answered “strongly disagree” or “disagree.” Responses were collected and analyzed. Results The most commonly reported GI symptoms were nausea (86%), irregular bowel movements (71%), abdominal pain (70%), and constipation (70%). Additionally, 82% of patients reported having GI symptoms more than once per week, and 71% reported having seen a GI specialist, and symptoms did not improve with changes in position. Twelve patients had undergone a gastric emptying study, and six of these patients reported receiving a diagnosis of gastroparesis or delayed gastric emptying. Conclusions GI disturbances are common, frequent, and prolonged in patients with POTS, likely impacting quality of life. Given the importance of the enteric nervous system to normal GI functioning, the same autonomic impairment leading to POTS may result in abnormal gut motility and ultimately subjective GI discomfort.
ECT and rTMS for depression.

Schulze-Rauschenbach et al ([2005][1]) report an interesting study comparing electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for the treatment of major depression. They conclude that both are equally efficacious, but rTMS is associated with fewer cognitive
Fundamentals of Collection Development and Management by Peggy Johnson

In a sense, the title of this immense volume is misleading, since the text goes far beyond the basics of collection development and management. Covering both practical aspects and theoretical under...
Photonic Crystal Enhanced Microscopy: Multimode Imaging for Photonic Crystal Biosensors

Photonic Crystal Enhanced Microscopy (PCEM) utilizes the optical resonances of photonic crystal surfaces for label-free biosensor imaging and amplification of fluorescence. We describe the application of PCEM to biomolecular and cell-based assays.
Measurement error in dietary data: implications for the epidemiologic study of the diet-disease relationship.

Objectives: To examine the effect of measurement error in dietary data on the relationship between diet and body mass index (BMI). To correct for the effect of measurement error on diet–BMI association by using replicate measurements of diet. The effect of measurement error on diet–BMI relationship was simulated, and its implications are discussed. Design: Prospective study design. Setting: The first and second China Health and Nutrition Survey conducted in 1989 and 1991, respectively. Subjects: Three thousand, four hundred and seventy-nine adults age 20–45 y at the 1989 survey. Methods: Statistical methods were used to demonstrate the effect of measurement error in dietary data on the diet-BMI association. Results: By using the average of three replicate 24 h dietary recalls, the attenuation of diet-BMI association was reduced substantially. The regression coefficients of fat and energy intakes differed markedly from those computed by using only single measurement of diet. Conclusions: Measurement error in dietary data may significantly attenuate the diet-disease association. Where appropriate, specific emphasis may be needed to address the problem of measurement error in the study of diet-disease relationship. Spnosorship: This research was supported by the National Institute of Health, the Carolina Population Center and the Nutrition Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Using Mechanistically Informed Pathways to Control the Automated Growth of Reaction Networks

Algorithms were developed to allow for molecular-level reaction pathways to be described through a series of topological “site neighborhood”-based cases. These mechanism-informed pathway-level models capture mechanistic knowledge that would otherwise have been lost in a traditional pathway model with far fewer species than a mechanistic model would entail. Protonated cyclopropane (PCP) isomerization and β-scission cracking are explored in detail to demonstrate the capture of the different energies of carbenium ion transitions.