cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pitfalls in atmospheric correction of ocean color imagery: how should aerosol optical properties be computed?: comment

The Sea-Viewing Wide Field-of-View Sensor (SeaWiFS) experience suggests that in most situations the aerosol models presently in use for atmospheric correction of ocean color imagery are sufficient for this task. It has been shown [Appl. Opt. 41, 412 (2002)] that the top-of-atmosphere reflectances computed for more realistic aerosol models differ from those computed for presently used models but have not shown that they will yield a better atmospheric correction, e.g., through direct application to ocean color imagery. Thus they provide no evidence that the presently used aerosol models are inadequate, or that their use is a pitfall in atmospheric correction.
RELATIONSHIPS IN THE CAPILLARIA GROUP OF PANICUM IN ARIZONA AND NEW MEXICO

INSPECTION of Kearney and Peebles's Arizona Flora (1951), Gould's Grasses of Southiwestern United States (1951) and Hitchcock's Manutal of the Grasses of the United States (1950) will reveal the existence of a controversial status for the Capillaria group of the genus Panicum. Agnes Chase, in the revised Manual, and Swallen, in preparing the family Gramineae for Kearney and Peebles's Flora, followed Hitchcock and Chase's 1910 revision and recognized P. hirticaule, P. stramineum, P. pampinosum and P. capillare as four distinct species. However Gould (1949) reduced P. hirticaule, P. stramineum and P. pampinosum to varieties of P. capillkre. Since many of the diagnostic characteristics employed in delimiting species of the genus are often difficult to determine, it is essential to disregard the cliche so often associated with the genus, namely, "It is as good a characteristic as used to separate many of the species of Panicum." A study of 250 specimens from herbaria of the University of Arizona, Cornell University, Missouri Botanical Garden, New Mexico A. and M. College, and distribution data kindly supplied by Mrs. Chase from the National Herbarium, greatly aided in the preparation and planning of a botanical trip to the southwestern part of the United States in the late summer of 1952. This trip afforded the opportunity to study and appraise in their native habitats numerous diverse local populations containing hundreds of living specimens of some of the taxa comprising the Capillaria group. Since all members of this group are annuals, I was also desirous of collecting mature seeds in order to grow the plants in a uniform environment for later study and as a potential source of material for cytological work. Four of these taxa will be discussed in detail in this paper, namely, P. pampinosum, P. hirticaule, P. stramineum and P. cap,illare. Comments pertaining to the taxon P. cap,illare var. occidentale are omitted until more data have been obtained from population and herbaria studies concerning the variation of P. capillare and named variety for their entire geographical range. Panicum hirticaule and P. capillare were well represented in the various herbaria, while specimens of P. pampinosum and P. stramineum, on the other hand, were quite rare. Field study was therefore pertinent in order to evaluate the existing data and at the same time facilitate the discovery of new
Work Action Analysis: A Cognitive Engineering Method to Examine Educational Systems

Cognitive engineering methods must be extended to allow for analysis of educational systems. Specifically, this article proposes work action analysis (WAA) as a method for modeling educational systems to support their design and evaluation. WAA is defined as a form of work analysis that describes a system as the overall system goals, the collective work environments for each of multiple roles in the system, the essential interrelationships between the agents’ cognitive and physical activities and their environment, and the interactions between agents’ roles. A general description of WAA is given along with specific steps to generate a WAA model. WAA is used to model an undergraduate engineering course and guide its evaluation via a variety of measures. Finally, insights into educational systems from the WAA modeling method are discussed.
Influence of the controlled rheology process (vis‐breaking) on additive effectiveness in polypropylene

The effectiveness of a light mineral oil used as a costabilizer for radiation resistance and Irgafos 168 as a melt stabilizer was determined in polypropylene resins prepared with different peroxide levels. At low levels of peroxide, the presence of oil led to an improvement of radiation resistance compared to resins that contained no oil. However, at higher peroxide levels, oil-containing resins showed less resistance to radiation that did those without oil
Antagonism of bremazocine‐induced urination as a test for kappa‐opioid receptor antagonists within the phenylpiperidine series

Representative compounds from a series of phenylpiperidine-opioid antagonists were compared in their ability to antagonize the diuretic effect of 0.08 mg/kg of bremazocine, a kappa-opioid receptor agonist. Three of the compounds produced dose-related antagonism of bremazocine, whereas four others did not. The four ineffective compounds also did not exhibit any kappa agonist activity. The potency of the three effective antagonists did not correlated with their antagonist activity against morphine or in suppressing deprivation-induced drinking. These results demonstrate that several kappa receptor antagonists can be found in the phenylpiperidine series of opioid antagonists, and further emphasize the usefulness of kappa-mediated diuresis as an in vivo test for kappa-opioid receptor activity.
Developmentally regulated and spatially restricted antigens of radial glial cells.

Radial glial cells, present in many parts of the embryonic vertebrate central nervous system (CNS), have been implicated in the guidance of neuroblasts from the ventricular zone to their laminar destinations. Moreover, radial glial cells may be progenitors of some CNS neurons and glia. To gain new insight into the structure and development of these cells, we have generated and characterized a panel of monoclonal antibodies that recognize radial glial cells of the chick optic tectum. Mice were immunized with homogenates of embryonic day (E) 10 tectum, and antibodies were analyzed by immunofluorescence and immunoblotting. We describe here three pairs of antibodies. 1) H5 and a previously generated antibody, R5 (Drager et al., J. Neurosci. 4:2025, 1984), stain the whole extent of the radial glial cell from E7 to E20. In cultures prepared from E10 tecta, both stain a filamentous meshwork in glial cells but not in neurons. On immunoblots, both recognize a protein of approximately 52 kD that is closely related (or identical) to vimentin. 2) H28 and H29 stain radial glia between E7 and E14, but not later. Moreover, H28 and H29 staining is markedly more intense in the ventricular and intermediate zones than in the laminae of the tectal plate. Both of these antibodies recognize an intracellular epitope in cultured glial cells and a protein of approximately 35 kD on immunoblots. 3) H2 and H27 recognize antigens concentrated in the most superficial processes and endfeet of radial glia in late (E16-E20) embryos. They stain distinct structures in cultured glia, suggesting that they recognize distinct antigens. H27 recognizes a protein of approximately 29 kD on immunoblots. Thus antibodies H5 and R5 are good markers of radial glial cells at all stages, whereas the others define antigens that are developmentally regulated and localized to discrete domains. Together, these antibodies can be used to study temporal and spatial specializations of radial glia.
Die erste allgemein anwendbare Methode zur Stille‐Kreuzkupplung von Arylchloriden

Ein „Doppelpack” aus zwei handelsublichen Reagentien, PtBu3 und CsF, ist die praktische und allgemein anwendbare Losung fur eine schon lange bestehende Einschrankung der Stille-Reaktion – das Unvermogen, billige und leicht verfugbare Arylchloride zu kuppeln [Gl. (1); R1 = OMe, NH2, o-Me usw.; R = Vinyl, Allyl, Ph, Bu usw.].
Frustration-Instigated Career Decisions: A Theoretical Exploration of the Role of Frustration in Career Decisions

From a career decision-making perspective, frustration may be an important catalyst for career change. Literature is discussed and used to develop propositions that present perceived frustration, not just as a state of discomfort but as an impetus for career change. Self-perception and achievement need are presented in relation to frustration to speculate about specific career decisions that might be enacted in a state of frustration. A framework is developed to represent career decisions based on proposed relationships. Implications are discussed for human resource development specialists, managers, and employees and suggestions are presented for conducting future research.
The role of chaperone proteins in the aryl hydrocarbon receptor core complex.

Abstract The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) exists in the absence of a ligand as a tetrameric complex composed of a 95–105 kDa ligand binding subunit, a dimer of hsp90, and the immunophilin-like X-associated protein 2 (XAP2). XAP2 has a highly conserved carboxy terminal tetratricopeptide repeat domain that is required for both hsp90 and AhR binding. Hsp 90 appears to be involved in the initial folding of newly synthesized AhR, stabilization of ligand binding conformation of the receptor, and inhibition of constitutive dimerization with ARNT. XAP2 is capable of stabilizing the AhR, as well as enhancing cytoplasmic localization of the receptor. XAP2 binds to both the AhR and hsp90 in the receptor complex, and is capable of independently binding to both hsp90 and the AhR. However, the exact functional role for XAP2 in the AhR complex remains to be fully established.
Comparing the behavior of agents to human subjects in a uniform price auction

The idea that large-scale generating units operates at marginal cost when given the ability to offer their power for sale in a uniform price auction is at best wishful thinking. In fact, both real and experimental data show that the more uncertainty a supplier faces (e.g., load uncertainty, uncertainty of other suppliers, etc.) the more they try to increase their profits by submitting offers to sell higher than marginal cost and by withholding units if permitted. This makes predicting unit commitment and dispatch ahead of time difficult. This paper explores characteristics of software agents that were designed based on the outcome of tests with human subjects using a uniform price auction with stochastic load. The agent behavior is compared to the behavior of the subjects. Both subject and agent behavior is classified based on the data. Differences and similarities are noted and explained.
Multi-waveband Behavior of Blazars

The author reviews recent progress toward understanding blazars that multi-waveband monitoring observations have advanced. The primary techniques include the compilation of multi-waveband light curves, multi-epoch VLBI images at radio wavelengths, plots of linear polarization vs. time at radio through optical wavelengths, and spectral energy distributions (SEDs). Correlations and the coincidence or lag of events across wavebands and in the images indicate where the events take place relative to the “core” that lies ≳ 0.5 pc from the central engine. Rotations of the polarization electric vector suggest a helical geometry of the magnetic field upstream of the millimeter-wave core, while rapid fluctuations in degree and position angle of polarization imply that the jet plasma is turbulent in and downstream of the core. The author is developing a numerical model that simulates the emission from such turbulence as it interacts with a conical standing shock in the core region.
A computational model for the formation of lamin-B mitotic spindle envelope and matrix

Recent reports show that, after nuclear envelope breakdown, lamin-B, a component of the nuclear lamina in interphase, localizes around the mitotic spindle as a membranous network. How this process occurs, however, and how it influences mitotic spindle morphogenesis is unclear. Here, we develop a computational model based on a continuum description to represent the abundance and location of various molecular species involved during mitosis, and use the model to test a number of hypotheses regarding the formation of the mitotic matrix. Our model illustrates that freely diffusible nuclear proteins can be captured and transported to the spindle poles by minus-end-directed microtubule (MT) motors. Moreover, simulations show that these proteins can be used to build a shell-like region that envelopes the mitotic spindle, which helps to improve the focusing of the mitotic spindle by spatially restricting MT polymerization and limiting the effective diffusion of the free MTs. Simulations also confirm that spatially dependent regulation of the spindle network through the Ran system improves spindle focusing and morphology. Our results agree with experimental observations that lamin-B reorganizes around the spindle and helps to maintain spindle morphology.
Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) Receptor-Insulin Receptor Substrate Complexes in the Uterus ALTERED SIGNALING RESPONSE TO ESTRADIOL IN THE IGF-1m/m MOUSE

Some of the actions of estradiol occur through stimulation of growth factor pathways in target organs. Tyrosine-phosphorylated (Tyr(P)) insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) and the insulin receptor substrate (IRS)-1 are found in the uterus of mice treated with estradiol. Immunoprecipitates of uterine Tyr(P) IRS-1 contained both p85, the regulatory subunit of phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3-kinase, and PI 3-kinase catalytic activity. Estradiol also stimulated binding of IRS-1 and PI 3-kinase to the IGF-1R. Depletion of IRS-1 from uterine extracts reduced PI 3-kinase associated with the receptor, which suggests that binding of the enzyme to IGF-1R occurs primarily in a complex that also contains IRS-1. Following treatment with estradiol, formation of Tyr(P) IGF-1R, Tyr(P) IRS-1, and the p85·IRS-1 complex was very weak in the uterus of IGF-1m/m mice, which are severely deficient in IGF-1. This indicated that most, if not all, of the estradiol-stimulated Tyr phosphorylation of uterine IRS-1 originates from ligand activation of IGF-1R kinase. IRS-2 was also Tyr-phosphorylated in the normal uterus and bound more IGF-1R and p85 in response to estradiol; however, a marked decrease in levels of uterine IRS-2 occurred 12–24 h after treatment with estradiol. Since IRS-2 was present in IGF-1R precipitates and a recombinant form of IGF-1 (long R3IGF-1) stimulated formation of Tyr(P) IRS-2, hormonal activation of this docking protein probably occurs through the IGF-1R. In summary, our findings show that estrogen activation of uterine IGF-1R kinase results in enhanced binding of p85 (PI 3-kinase) to IRS-1 and IRS-2. The formation of one or both of these complexes may be important for the potent mitogenic action of this steroid. That estradiol stimulated a decrease of IRS-2, but not of IRS-1, suggests that these docking proteins have different roles in hormone-induced signaling in the uterus.
Density compensation, species composition, and richness of ants on a neotropical elevational gradient

The distribution of species on elevational gradients challenges our understanding of ecological processes, particularly in the context of biotic responses to climate change. We report here the distribution of leaf-litter ants on the Barva Transect, a continuous gradient of wet forest on Costa Rica's Atlantic slope. Seven sites were sampled, distributed from 50 to 2000 m. Worker density and microsite occupancy were high and relatively constant from 50 m to 1500 m and then abruptly dropped to near zero at 2000 m. Species density at the 1 m2 scale was high and constant to 1070 m and then declined at higher elevations. Species richness of assemblages at the 1 km2 scale was constant or rose slightly from 50 m to 500 m and then steeply declined. Because assemblage richness and species density declined more rapidly than worker density, density compensation with elevation is suggested and supported by a measure of mean population density. Statistically, temperature was the best predictor of both species richness and worker density. Relative humidity, soil nutrients, elevation-specific regional area, and the mid-domain effect were poor predictors of richness. Sites from 50 m to 500 m were similar in species composition. In contrast, assemblages at 1070 m, 1500 m, and 2000 m were highly differentiated. Thus elevational ranges were narrow for species at mid to upper elevations and broad for those at the lowest elevations. Density compensation at higher elevation suggests that if temperature or productivity are influencing the decline in diversity it must be indirectly through speciation and extinction processes, rather than by greater numbers of individuals. The broad ranges of lowland species may be a response to as yet unmeasured environmental factors (e.g., NPP) or to climate changes associated with the current interglacial period. Interglacial warming may have driven species to higher elevations, but the lack of competitors at the lower range margins may have allowed the lowest-elevation species to move upslope without a concomitant contraction of the lower range boundary. Global warming threatens a loss of narrowly-distributed montane species, but lowland biotic attrition may be ameliorated by range expansion among lowland species.
Leadership Integrity in a Fractured Knowledge World

We hear much talk today of the knowledge economy. The reality is more stark—and far more complex—a world divided into haves and have-nots, a world that is not sustainable ecologically and perhaps n...
Inhibition of gastric mucin synthesis by Helicobacter pylori

Abstract Background & Aims: Mucins are high-molecular-weight glycoproteins that protect the gastric epithelium. Previous data suggested that gastric surface-type mucin is decreased in Helicobacter pylori –infected patients and restored after eradication of the infection. Our aim was to determine the effect of H. pylori on mucin synthesis in cultured gastric epithelial cells. Methods: Mucin synthesis was measured by labeling with [ 3 H]glucosamine and size-exclusion chromatography. Expression of MUC5AC and MUC1 mucin protein antigens was quantitated by Western blot analysis. Results: Mucin synthesis was inhibited more than 80% when KATO III cells were incubated with H. pylori , with no effect on mucin secretion or degradation. Inhibition was rapid (4 hours), partially reversible, dependent on concentration of bacteria, and associated with the insoluble membrane fraction. H. pylori decreased levels of MUC5AC and MUC1 mucins. MUC1 inhibition was half-maximal by 4 hours and partially reversed by 24 hours, but the decrease in MUC5AC was less rapid and not reversible within 24 hours. Conclusions: H. pylori inhibits total mucin synthesis in vitro and decreases the expression of MUC5AC and MUC1. A decrease in gastric mucin synthesis in vivo may disrupt the protective surface mucin layer. GASTROENTEROLOGY 2000;118:1072-1079
A 3-Year Multi-institutional Experience With the Liposhaver

Objective To report a 3-year multi-institutional clinical experience with the liposhaver in facial plastic surgery. Design Nonrandomized, nonblinded, multi-institutional evaluation of the liposhaver in a clinical setting. Interventions Seventy-two patients who presented for facial plastic surgical procedures underwent surgery with the liposhaver. Seventy-six liposhaving procedures and 74 concomitant procedures were performed. Standardized preoperative and postoperative photographs were obtained. Outcome Measure Subjective evaluation by the surgeons who performed the procedures. Results The liposhaver was used successfully in all cases. The fat was cleanly shaved and the contour results were even, without dimpling or significant asymmetry. Operative time was comparable to that of conventional liposuction. There were no cases of facial nerve injury and no evidence of increased bleeding intraoperatively. Two male patients had small postoperative hematomas in the immediate postoperative period that were successfully treated with conservative measures. An additional patient developed a small hematoma on postoperative day 5 that was effectively treated with needle aspiration and a pressure dressing. Conclusion This 3-year multi-institutional report suggests that the liposhaver continues to offer a precise alternative to conventional liposuction.
A hybrid solar-redox scheme for liquid fuel and hydrogen coproduction

The feasibility of a hybrid solar-redox process, which converts solar energy and methane into separate streams of liquid fuels and hydrogen through the assistance of an oxygen carrier, is investigated via both experiments and simulations. Fixed and fluidized-bed experiments are conducted to evaluate the redox performances of an oxygen carrier composed of iron oxide promoted with a mixed ionic–electronic conductor (MIEC) support. Over 95% conversion in the methane oxidation step and 60% steam to hydrogen conversion in the water-splitting step are observed. Aspen Plus® simulation based on experimental data and a comprehensive set of assumptions estimates the overall process efficiency to be 64.2–65.3% on a higher heating value (HHV) basis. Through the integration of solar energy, methane to fuel conversion efficiency can approach 100%. The proposed process has the potential to produce transportation fuels and hydrogen at high efficiency with reduced carbon footprint.
Measurement of Thermal Boundary Conductance of a Series of Metal-Dielectric Interfaces by the Transient Thermoreflectance Technique

Measurement of the thermal boundary conductance (TBC) by use of a nondestructive optical technique, transient thermoreflectance (TTR), is presented. A simple thermal model for the TTR is presented with a discussion of its applicability and sensitivity. A specially prepared sample series of Cr, Al, Au, and Pt on four different substrates (Si, sapphire, GaN, and AlN) were tested at room temperature and the TTR signal fitted to the thermal model. The resulting TBC values vary by more than a factor of 3~0.71 310 8 ‐2.3310 8 W/m 2 K!. It is shown that the diffuse mismatch model (DMM) tended to overpredict the TBC of interfaces with materials having similar phonon spectra, while underpredicting the TBC for interfaces with dissimilar phonon spectra. The DMM only accounts for diffuse elastic scattering. Other scattering mechanisms are discussed which may explain the failure of the DMM at room temperature.@DOI: 10.1115/1.1857944#
Sneezing, sniffling, scratching or snoring, what is worse for allergic children in Singapore

Abstract Rationale Allergic symptoms have a general tendency for nocturnal exacerbations. Nocturnal symptoms and awakenings are an important factor in disease specific quality of life assessments. We aimed to define the underlying risk factors for night time awakenings in allergic children in Singapore. Methods A prospective analysis of children referred for aeroallergen skin prick tests (SPTs) in the KK children's hospital outpatient clinic in Singapore, from March 2003 to Aug 2003. All patients were asked to complete a detailed questionnaire including environmental risk factors (smoking, pets, soft toys, etc.) and a combined allergy symptom score, modified from the rhinitis outcomes questionnaire (ROQ), with a maximal score of 52 points. We included in the analysis all patients with at least one positive SPT and a clinical diagnosis of allergic disease. Results 60 patients were included, 44(77%) males, 47(78%) Chinese, age mean 8.0 years (range 3 – 15 years). Patients were referred to the skin prick test with a diagnosis of one or more of: Allergic Rhinitis 38 (63%), Asthma 26 (43%) or Atopic Dermatitis 13 (22%). The median combined symptom score was 11 (Min 1, Max 36, 3rd quartile 18.5). There was no significant difference in the combined symptom score, between patient groups according to the referral diagnosis. Nocturnal awakenings were reported by 18 (36%) of patients, their presence correlated only with the skin specific symptom score and specifically with skin itching. Conclusions In a tropical climate, the presence of skin itch seems to be the most important predictive factor causing nocturnal awakenings in allergic children.
Revisiting the evidence on trade policy preferences

Abstract Past literature has found evidence that labor market attributes affect individuals' trade policy preferences in a manner consistent with theories of international trade. This paper shows that, with the exception of education, the relationships between labor market attributes and trade policy preferences are not robust in US survey data. This suggests that either our proxies of labor market attributes are poor or our theories for what drives trade policy preferences need to be revisited.
SPAS-1 (stimulator of prostatic adenocarcinoma-specific T cells)/SH3GLB2: A prostate tumor antigen identified by CTLA-4 blockade.

Discovery of immunologically relevant antigens in prostate cancer forms the basis for developing more potent active immunotherapy. We report here a strategy using the transgenic adenocarcinoma of mouse prostate (TRAMP) model, which allows for the functional identification of immunogenic prostate tumor antigens with relevance for human immunotherapy. Using a combination of active tumor vaccination in the presence of CTL-associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4) in vivo blockade, we elicited tumor-specific T cells used to expression clone the first T cell-defined TRAMP tumor antigen, called Spas-1 (stimulator of prostatic adenocarcinoma specific T cells-1). Spas-1 expression was increased in advanced primary TRAMP tumors. We show that the immunodominant SPAS-1 epitope SNC9-H8 arose from a point mutation in one allele of the gene in TRAMP tumor cells, and that immunization with dendritic cells pulsed with SNC9-H8 peptide resulted in protection against TRAMP-C2 tumor challenge. In humans, the Spas-1 ortholog SH3GLB2 has been reported to be overexpressed in prostate cancer metastases. Additionally, we identified a nonmutated HLA-A2-binding epitope in the human ortholog SH3GLB2, which primed T cells from healthy HLA-A2+ individuals in vitro. Importantly, in vitro-primed T cells also recognized naturally processed and presented SH3GLB2. Our findings demonstrate that our in vivo CTLA-4 blockade-based T cell expression cloning can identify immunogenic cancer antigens with potential relevance for human immunotherapy.
Physical activity interventions in minority populations

Racial/ethnic minority groups in the United States report high rates of inactivity and need intervention because of the associated health risks. This article discusses the use of informational, environmental and policy, and behavioral and social approaches to increase physical activity in minority populations. Although all of the strategies have been used with varying degrees of success, social support interventions have been particularly effective and appealing to minority individuals, with an emphasis on using culturally relevant support sources (churches). Individually adapted behavior change programs have also shown promise, but most studies have relied on group formats. Further examination is needed to determine if using familiar, low-cost technology (ie, text messaging) to deliver these individually adapted physical activity programs would increase their reach in minority communities. Finally, to promote sustainable changes, future directions should focus on creating or increasing access to places for physical activity in minority communities.
Nitric oxide/redox-based signalling as a therapeutic target for penile disorders.

Oxidative and/or nitrosative stress is implicated in the pathogeneses of assorted penile disorders of clinical significance, notably erectile dysfunction, priapism and penile fibrosis. It is becoming increasingly recognised that the generation and activity of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in the penis influence vascular homeostasis of this organ, with adverse effects exerted at cellular and molecular levels. Furthermore, these elements may interact with molecular signalling pathways operating in the penis, modulating their functional roles. This interaction in particular suggests that by accessing molecular targets associated with oxidative/nitrosative stress in the penis, new pharmacotherapeutic approaches may be developed to promote normal erectile ability and preserve erectile tissue health. This notion pertains to, but also extends beyond, interventions which predictably target components of the nitric oxide-based signal transduction pathway for the on-demand treatment of erectile dysfunction. ...
The Power of Ideology: The Quest for Technological Autonomy in Argentina and Brazil

In this prodigiously researched book, Emanuel Adler addresses the hotly contested issue of how developing nations can emerge from the economic and technological tutelage of the developed world.
HYPOTENSIVE ACTIVITY OF TWO BENZOTHIADIAZINE DERIVATIVES.

4-Hydrazino-1,2,3-benzothiadiazine-1,1 dioxide hydrochloride (EX 4211A) and 6-chloro-3,4-dihydro-3-( β -oxo- n -propyl)-7-sulfamyl-2H-1,2,4-benzothiadiazine 1,1-dioxide phthalazone azine (EX 5004) were studied in the rat and dog to elucidate the mechanism(s) by which these compounds produced hypotensive effects. EX 4211A and EX 5004 were potent hypotensive agents in the anesthetized rat, mildly hypotensive in the anesthetized normotensive dog, and produced a moderate degree of hypotension in unanesthetized renal hypertensive dogs. EX 5004 and EX 4211A appeared to produce their hypotensive effect by the lowering of peripheral resistance through a direct action on vascular smooth muscle.
Solution, Thermal and Optical Properties of Novel Poly(pyridinium salt)s Derived from Conjugated Pyridine Diamines*

Several novel poly(pyridinium salt)s with heterocy- clic pyridine moieties in their backbones with tosylate and trifli- mide counterions were prepared by either ring-transmutation polymerization reaction of phenylated-bis(pyrylium tosylate) with isomeric pyridine diamines of 4-phenyl-2,6-bis(4-amino- phenyl)pyridine in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) for 48 h at 130- 140 � C or by metathesis reaction of the respective tosylate polymers with lithium triflimide in DMSO at about 60 � C. Their chemical structures were characterized by FTIR, 1 H, 13 C NMR spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. Their number-average molecular weights (Mn) were in the range of 8,000-51,000 and their polydispersities in the range of 1.18-2.13 as determined by gel permeation chromatography. They had excellent ther- mal stabilities of 340-458 � C and high glass transition tempera- tures >200 � C. As they showed good solubilities in common organic solvents, their solution properties were also character- ized for their lyotropic liquid-crystalline properties with polariz- ing optical microscopy (POM) studies. Their photoluminescent properties were examined by using a spectrofluorometer in both solution and solid states. Their quantum yields were rather low, which were in the range of 1.3-2.0%. Additionally, hand-drawn fibers from the melts were examined to determine their morphologies with a number of microscopic techniques including POM, scanning electron microscopy, and transmis- sion electron microscopy. V C 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 48: 4408-4418, 2010
Women in CS: an evaluation of three promising practices

Historically, Harvey Mudd College (HMC) has had very little success attracting women to the study of computer science: women have chosen CS less than any other field of study. In 2006 HMC began three practices in order to increase the number of women studying and majoring in CS; these practices have now been in place for 3 years. With this paper we describe these practices and present a thorough evaluation of the quantitative and qualitative differences that have accompanied them. In sum, these efforts have rebalanced our department by significantly increasing women's participation in our computer science program.
Independent Regulation of Leukotriene B4‐Elicited Polymorphonuclear Leukocyte Exocytosis and Superoxide Generation by a Serum Factor

Serum from a patient with inactive systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and ibuprofen-induced transient neutropenia was used as a probe to define further the control of human polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) exocytosis and superoxide (O2-) generation. Thirty-minute preincubation of normal PMNs with 10-50% v/v of this serum, followed by washing, produced a specific dose-related suppression of leukotriene B4 (LTB4)-elicited beta-glucuronidase and lysozyme release of up to 45% and 30% respectively. If cells were not washed, the inhibition increased to 60% and 40%. Superoxide production stimulated by LTB4 was unaffected. The serum had no effect on formyl-met-leu-phe (FMLP) or phorbol myristate acetate-stimulated O2- or exocytosis. O2- and beta-glucuronidase release elicited by zymosan-treated serum (ZTS) were both decreased by 15%, but there was no increased inhibition seen if cells were not washed, or if the time of preincubation was increased from 7 to 30 min. In contradistinction, the serum inhibition of LTB4 exocytosis did show time dependence. Serum obtained when the patient was not leukopenic and sera from 6 normal controls, 2 patients with inactive SLE, 1 patient with SLE and chronic leukopenia, and 2 controls taking ibuprofen did not influence any PMN function. The serum inhibition of ZTS-induced functions was qualitatively similar to that observed when PMNs were preincubated and desensitized with ZTS in vitro. Selective inhibition of LTB4 exocytosis was not seen when PMNs were desensitized with LTB4 in vitro. These observations indicate that LTB4-elicited O2- and exocytosis can be independently and specifically regulated. The cellular site at which this serum factor acts is not clear, but the current studies strongly suggest that this inhibition is not due to in vitro deactivation by LTB4 activity.
Universality: a call for compassion.

Acyclist is struck by a car and lands on the pavement, motionless. Paramedics arrive within minutes and determine that he has multiple fractures, a head injury and possible intra-abdominal trauma. Barely conscious, the victim whispers, “I have no insurance!” This poses a dilemma. The nearest hospital, St. Avarice, has an excellent reputation but high co-payment charges. Riffraff General is farther away and often has long waits, but the care is free. To complicate matters, St. Avarice is known to “dump” uninsured patients. The paramedics head for Riffraff, where the patient later dies of treatable injuries while waiting for an operating room. Farfetched? Hardly. Dumping, defined as “denial of or limitation of emergency care, and referral elsewhere, usually for financial reasons,” was, until recently, a widespread practice in the US. Economically motivated transfers led to significant unnecessary mortality, 1 and “dumped” patients were predominantly young, male, uninsured, minority members, therefore provoking the observation that dumping is a practice “which appears to reinforce racial and class inequities of access to medical care.” 2
Tractography Neuroanatomical Study of Dyslexia

Researchers at Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium used diffusion tensor imaging tractography, a structural MRI technique, to assess the integrity of white matter tracts involved in reading.
Probable Parasitism Among Australian Bees of the Genus Allodapula (Hymenoptera, Apoidea, Ceratinini)

Allodapula associata , although equipped with pollencollecting hairs, has been found in four different nests of A. unicolor (Smith) and is believed to be a social parasite. A. praesumptiosa is morphologically similar to associata and probably also a social parasite, perhaps in nests of A. simillima (Smith).
Abstract 5510: Tranilast inhibits growth of skin tumor cells in a xenograft mouse model of tuberous sclerosis complex.

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC Pharmacological approaches for treating tumors in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) are inadequate. Although mTORC1 inhibitors such as rapamycin represent a major new avenue for treatment, we and others have shown that rapamycin improves but does not eradicate TSC skin tumors. We tested the effects of tranilast, an antiallergic and antifibrotic drug with antiproliferative effects, on fibroblasts grown from angiofibromas, forehead plaques, periungual fibromas, and normal-appearing skin from 5 patients with TSC. Tumor cells showed loss of TSC2 expression and hyperactivation of the mTORC1 signaling pathway. Tranilast (5, 10, 20, 40 μM) inhibited the viability of TSC skin tumor cells from five patients in an MTT assay. These effects on cell viability appeared to be independent of mTORC1 activity, since tranilast did not inhibit phosphorylation of ribosomal protein S6. Four paired samples of RNA from tumor and normal cells, treated with or without tranilast, were studied using gene expression arrays, revealing that tranilast significantly altered the expression of at least 36 genes, of which 12 are involved in transcription. In a xenograft model in which dermal-epidermal constructs comprising normal human keratinocytes with either TSC angiofibroma cells or TSC normal fibroblasts from a TSC patient were grafted to nude mice (6-8 mice per group), tranilast treatment (300 mg/kg/day) reduced the number of skin tumor cells compared to vehicle control group (P< 0.05). Tranilast treatment did not block angiogenesis or lymphangiogenesis in the xenograft model. These results indicate that tranilast has antiproliferative effects independent of mTORC1 and suggest that tranilast may be useful as an adjunctive agent for the treatment of TSC skin tumors. Citation Format: Shaowei Li, Ji-an Wang, Rajesh L. Thangapazham, Peter Klover, Joel Moss, Thomas N. Darling. Tranilast inhibits growth of skin tumor cells in a xenograft mouse model of tuberous sclerosis complex. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 5510. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-5510
Heart block following stage 1 palliation of hypoplastic left heart syndrome

Abstract Objectives Publicly available data from the Pediatric Heart Network's Single Ventricle Reconstruction Trial was analyzed to determine the prevalence, timing, risk factors for, and impact of second- and third-degree heart block (HB) on outcomes in patients who underwent stage 1 palliation (S1P) for hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS). Methods The presence and date of onset of post-S1P HB occurring within the first year of life, potential risk factors for HB, and factors known to predict poor outcomes after S1P were extracted. Multivariable logistic and Cox regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors for HB and to determine the effect of HB on 3-year transplantation-free survival. Results Among the 549 patients in the cohort, 33 (6%) developed HB after S1P. The median interval between S1P and HB was 8 days (interquartile range, 0-133 days). Regression analysis showed that tricuspid valve repair during S1P and obstruction of pulmonary venous drainage requiring pre-S1P intervention were independently associated with HB (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 11.6, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.3-40; P P = .02, respectively). Transplantation-free survival at 3 years was lower for those with HB (39% vs 65%; P = .004). HB remained associated with transplantation-free survival after controlling for known risk factors (adjusted hazard ratio, 3.1; 95% CI, 1.9-5.0; P Conclusions HB after S1P is rare but heralds a poor outcome. Careful monitoring of these patients is recommended given their significantly increased risks of death and heart transplantation.
Flattening the world of pathology training: What can digital pathology do?

The world’s need for diagnostic pathologists far out-paces our ability to train physicians to provide these services in a high quality manner. Additionally, the shift towards demonstrable competencies for physicians generally and pathologists specifically, underscores the need to direct training towards efficiently accomplishing the task, rather than just filling a time-defined period of apprenticeship. Digital pathology tools offer a means to both standardize and measure many of the specific competencies defined by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (US) and other bodies. And it has the potential to break down barriers to quality training for those in less-advantaged situations. One of the key issues is the relatively uneven distribution of training resources which the new digital pathology tools can ’flatten’ just as the internet and other technologic advances have done for the worlds of engineering, commerce and education. This talk with outline some of the specific ways in which digital pathology has, and can further help address the problems of mal-distribution of pathology educational resources both for initial and on-going training, and the demonstration of attainment of competency in the key areas of medical knowledge, patient care, communication, system-based practice, professionalism, and practice-based learning.
A Survey of the Health Status of Normal Adults in Several Regions of Jiangsu Province

[Objective] To understand the physical status of normal adults in certain areas of Jiangsu province.[Methods] Stratified cluster random sampling was conducted among 1 124 adults aged 18 years and over in 3 areas of Jiangsu province from August to December 2009.The survey included questionnaires,physical and laboratory examinations.[Results] Males' height and weight were(171.3±6.1)cm and(70.9±11.1)kg,and females' were(159.4±5.2)cm and(57.4±8.8)kg.Prevalence rates of overweight and obesity of male adults were 38.0% and 12.8%,and those of female adults were 20.7% and 5.1% respectively.The rate of abdominal obesity was 35.3%.Their prevalence rate of hypertension,anemia,raised fasting glucose,hypercholesterolemia,hypertriglyceridemia,low serum level of high density-lipoprotein cholesterol and high serum level of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were 23.4%,9.3%,7.2%,29.5%,25.1%,14.6% and 3.8%,respectively.[Conclusion] The prevailing rate of hypertension,hyperglucemia,hyperlipidemia and other deviated indicators of normal adults in economic developed areas are higher than that in underdeveloped areas.People aged 50 and over rendered a higher prevalence of chronic diseases.Therefore,it is reasonable to take this part of population as priority for the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases,with enhanced comprehensive interventions,to improve the overall health status of residents in this province.
Artificial senses for characterization of food quality

Food quality is of primary concern in the food industry and to the consumer. Systems that mimic human senses have been developed and applied to the characterization of food quality. The five primary senses are: vision, hearing, smell, taste and touch. In the characterization of food quality, people assess the samples sensorially and differentiate “good” from “bad” on a continuum. However, the human sensory system is subjective, with mental and physical inconsistencies, and needs time to work. Artificial senses such as machine vision, the electronic ear, electronic nose, electronic tongue, artificial mouth and even artificial the head have been developed that mimic the human senses. These artificial senses are coordinated individually or collectively by a pattern recognition technique, typically artificial neural networks, which have been developed based on studies of the mechanism of the human brain. Such a structure has been used to formulate methods for rapid characterization of food quality. This research presents and discusses individual artificial sensing systems. With the concept of multi-sensor data fusion these sensor systems can work collectively in some way. Two such fused systems, artificial mouth and artificial head, are described and discussed. It indicates that each of the individual systems has their own artificially sensing ability to differentiate food samples. It further indicates that with a more complete mimic of human intelligence the fused systems are more powerful than the individual systems in differentiation of food samples.
A High-Resolution Godunov Method for Modeling Anomalous Fluid Behaviour

A standard assumption made when solving problems in compressible hydrodynamics is that the adiabatic compressibility of a fluid decreases with increasing pressure, or equivalently, that isentropes have a convex shape (downward) in the plane of specific volume versus pressure. This property is characteristic of all ideal gases and underlies classical hydrodynamic phenomenology. For real materials, however, isentropes may be locally concave near a phase transition. This can give rise to “anomalous” structures like smooth compressive waves and rarefactive shocks as the physical solutions. Here, we describe the construction of high-resolution Godunov schemes for modeling anomalous fluids. Particular attention is paid to the development of an appropriate Riemann solver to treat non-convex isentropes. Our approach is tested on a van der Waals gas with a distinct anomalous region.
Seminal vesicle abscess: the use of computerized coaxial tomography for diagnosis and therapy.

AbstractSeminal vesicle abscesses are extremely rare and worthy of report. Computerized tomography easily verifies the diagnosis and simplifies the treatment of transurethral incision and drainage.
The Human Factors of Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion: Modeling Insulin Pump Use Issues:

Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) devices are commonly used in the treatment of patients with diabetes mellitus. These devices release basal doses of insulin and can be used to delive...
Trends in Heart Disease Mortality among Mississippi Adults over Three Decades, 1980-2013

Heart disease (HD) remains the leading cause of death among Mississippians; however, despite the importance of the condition, trends in HD mortality in Mississippi have not been adequately explored. This study examined trends in HD mortality among adults in Mississippi from 1980 through 2013 and further examined these trends by race and sex. We used data from Mississippi Vital Statistics (1980–2013) to calculate age-adjusted HD mortality rates for Mississippians age 25 or older. Cases were identified using underlying cause of death codes from the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9: 390–398, 402, 404–429) and Tenth Revision (ICD-10), including I00-I09, I11, I13, and I20-I51. Joinpoint software was used to calculate the average annual percent change in HD mortality rates for the overall population and by race and sex. Overall, the age-adjusted HD mortality rate among Mississippi adults decreased by 36.5% between 1980 and 2013, with an average annual percent change of -1.60% (95% CI -2.00 to -1.30). This trend varied across subgroups: HD mortality rates experienced an average annual change of -1.34% (95% CI -1.98 to -0.69) for black adults; -1.60% (95% CI -1.74 to -1.46) for white adults; -1.30% (95% CI -1.50 to -1.10) for all women, and -1.90% (95% -2.20 to -1.50) for all men. From 1980 to 2013, there was a continuous decrease in HD mortality among adult Mississippians. However, the magnitude of this reduction differed by race and sex.