cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Systemic hypoxia contributes to pulmonary hypertension in heart failure

Background: The classical mechanism for pulmonary hypertension (PH) in heart failure (HF) is related to a passive rise in pulmonary venous pressure secondary to an increase in LV filling pressure. However, much of the PH in HF is reversed by vasodilators. This suggests a reactive component to the elevated pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) that is likely related to dysregulation of vascular smooth muscle tone. Although the cause of this dysregulation is unclear, hypoxia may play a role. We examined whether variations in resting systemic O2 levels influence PVR in HF. Methods: Thirty-nine patients (54±9 yr, LVEF 20±6%, NYHA class I-III) undergoing right heart catheterization for pre transplant assessment were studied. PVR was derived from pulmonary arterial and wedge pressures measured via Swan Ganz catheter and cardiac output measured via direct Fick. Mixed venous and arterial blood was drawn from the pulmonary and radial arteries for measurement of PaO2, PvO2, SaO2, SvO2 and endothelin-I (ET-I). Results: Group mean PVR, PaO2, PvO2, SaO2 and SvO2 were 303±215 dynes/s/cm5, 72±12 mmHg, 32±4 mmHg, 94±4% and 57±11%, respectively. PVR was negatively correlated with PaO2, PvO2, SaO2 and SvO2 ( r = -0.53, -0.62, -0.48, -0.67, respectively, all P <0.01). Multiple linear regression suggested that SvO2 was the strongest predictor of PVR. In combination, PaO2, PvO2, SaO2 and SvO2 accounted for ∼60% of the variance in PVR. In addition, ET-I was related to both SvO2 ( r = -0.75) and PVR ( r =0.50) ( P <0.01). Conclusion: Systemic hypoxia, particularly a low SvO2, appears to play a role in PH and elevated PVR in HF. We suggest a hypoxia-mediated increase in the release of the vasoconstrictor ET-I as a likely mechanism. NIH HL71478
Cholesterol and Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-Bisphosphate Synergistically Affect Endothelial Biomechanics

Membrane cholesterol induces the formation of cell membrane microdomains that are enriched with acidic lipids such as phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2). PIP2 regulates a number of cellular processes by serving as cross linker between the membrane and cytoskeleton, and by association with actin-bonding proteins as cofilin, gelsolin, profilin, α-actinin, MARCKS, filamin, etc. The objective of this study is to clarify how the co-operative action of cholesterol and PIP2 impacts the biomechanics of endothelial cells. We measured the stiffness of bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAEC) by membrane indentation and tether extraction using AFM at different cholesterol level and PIP2 conditions. BAECs were transfected with Pleckstrin homology domain of phospholipase C (PH-PLC), which can sequester PIP2. Transfection with PH-PLC did not alter the force needed to elongate a tether-nanotube (i.e. tether force), but it significantly increased cell stiffness. These results imply that though PIP2 in BAEC does not act as a direct cross-linker between the plasma membrane and cytoskeleton, it is an efficient regulator of the cytoskeletal architecture. To further elucidate the role of PIP2 in endothelial cells, we enriched BAECs with exogenous PIP2 at different cholesterol levels. Enrichment with exogenous PIP2 led to the increase in membrane stiffness in cholesterol depleted BAEC. However no changes in stiffness were observed in control BAEC at normal cholesterol level. Confocal imaging showed that under normal cholesterol level most of the exogenous PIP2 delivered into BAEC was localized in discrete membrane domains and perinuclear patches. However, in cholesterol depleted BAEC the exogenous PIP2 was mostly homogeneously dispersed across the cell. On the basis of these findings we conclude that cholesterol affects BAEC's biomechanical properties by regulating the cellular localization and metabolism of PIP2, and thus by remodeling the cytoskeleton and its interaction with the plasma membrane.
Fixation patterns of 14C within developing leaves of eastern cottonwood

Individual leaves of eastern cottonwood (Populus deltoides), representing an ontogenetic series from leaf plastochron index 0.0 to 8.0, were fed 14CO2 photosynthetically and then harvested at times ranging from 15 to 1440 min. The lamina of each fed leaf was sectioned from tip to base into 5 parts, and each part was quantitatively assayed for 14C activity. In young leaves, the percentage of the total 14C fixed (expressed in dpm/mg of dry leaf tissue) was high in the lamina tip and decreased almost linearly toward the base. With increasing leaf age, the percentage of 14C fixed decreased in the lamina tip and increased in the base. The relative activity in mature leaves was almost uniform throughout the lamina. No differences were detected in the 14C distribution patterns within leaves over the time series.
Evaluation of segmented active constrained layer damping treatments that include bonding layer strain energy

The primary objective of this study is to develop a more accurate research and design tool than those in the currently available literature for active constrained layer damping treatments applied in bending. A five layer beam finite element model is presented that includes bonding layer strain energy and extends current finite element models for Euler-Bernoulli beams with segmented active constrained layer damping treatments. Active constrained layer damping utilizes modern piezoelectric materials as the constraining layer for these types of damping treatments. Preliminary studies have confirmed that strains in the bonding layers can have a significant effect on damping ratios at the fundamental modal frequency, especially when relatively thin compliant piezo materials are used for constraining layers. Previous researchers that have developed three layer finite element models assumed perfect no-slip adhesion between adjacent surfaces of the beam, viscoelastic layer, and constraining layer. In certain instances this can contribute to reduced accuracy when predicting damping. The effectiveness of the finite element model is validated experimentally for both active and passive constraining layers. The damping is represented using an elastic displacement fields (ADF) to model the frequency dependent stiffness and damping properties in viscoelastic materials as developed by Lesieutre and Bianchini.© (2001) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Evaluating the strength of faith: Potential comparative advantages of faith-based organizations providing health services in sub-Saharan Africa

Governments and funding agencies are increasingly partnering with faith-based organizations (FBOs) to deliver sought after health services in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite the fact that FBOs have been major providers of health services for hundreds of years, governments and funding agencies are increasingly seeking to formally partner with them, understanding that they can be found in most communities around the world, and may also be more effective than other types of non-governmental organizations (NGOs). However, there is currently no comprehensive theoretical framework to compare faith-based and secular non-profits. This article proposes an analytic framework for identifying potential FBO comparative advantages above and beyond those of NGOs, looking specifically at FBO health service delivery in sub-Saharan Africa. This article suggests that the most important comparative advantage that FBOs bring to health service delivery in sub-Saharan Africa is moral and ethical standing. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Processing and Characterization of Nanostructured Metal Oxides for Gas Sensing Applications

Nanoscience and nanotechnology involve materials and systems with at least one dimension in the range of 1-100nm that exhibit novel and size-dependent properties. This article reviews the main processing techniques used to fabricate nanomaterials, ranging from sol-gel to vapor deposition to electrospinning. Emphasis is given to metal oxide nanostructures, such as SnO2 nanoribbons and MoO3 nanowires. Their electronic properties and their gas detection behavior are presented and discussed. The high surface-to-volume ratio of metal oxide nanostructures has been exploited to develop gas sensors with higher stability, faster response, and higher sensitivity to the analytes of interest than their conventional counterparts. Commonly observed p-n type transition phenomena in nanostructured metal oxides are explained on the basis of the sensing mechanism involved in gas detection by semiconducting oxides and the size-related effects of nanomaterials in the concentration of free charge carriers. Insights are given on the future challenges in resistive gas sensing and how nanotechnology may be helpful in overcoming these burdens
On the dependence of travelling wave stability on basic state wave phase speed

The dependence of stability on basic state wave phase speed is examined in a nondivergent barotropic model on a sphere for planetary scale waves with phase speeds typical of waves observed in the atmosphere. Triad interactions are examined analytically and compared to numerical results from a full spectral model. A number of triads may result in growth of the perturbation components for each basic state wave; for each triad there is a basic state wave phase speed where it is resonant, identified as the point where the critical amplitude for instability to that perturbation becomes zero. Critical amplitudes for instability obtained using the full spectral model generally agree well with triad results. Since the basic state wave phase speed determines which triad will grow, spatial structure and critical amplitudes for instability for the growing disturbances depend strongly on basic state wave phase speed. The results of this idealized study suggest that phase speed may be an important factor in determining the stability of planetary scale waves in the atmosphere.
2-Amino-4-aryl-6-(ω-carboxyalkyl)-5H-pyrrolo[3,4-d]pyrimidin-7-(6H)ones. Preparation via a one-pot synthesis of 1-(ω-carboxyalkyl)-4-carbethoxy-2,3-dioxopyrrolidines

1-(ω-Carboxyalkyl)-4-carboethoxy-2,3-dioxopyrrolidines were prepared by a one-pot synthesis from β-alanine or γ-aminobutyric acid, ethyl acrylate and diethyl oxalate. In a second one-pot process these products were hydrolyzed, decarboxylated and condensed with aromatic aldehydes under the influence of hydrochloric acid to yield 1-(ω-carboxyalkyl)-4-arylidene-2,3-dioxo-pyrolidines, which yielded 2-amino-4-aryl-6-(ω-carboxyalkyl)-5H-pyrrolo[3,4-d]pyrimidin-7-(6H)-ones upon treatment with guanidine. It was shown that 3,4-dihydro derivatives of certain 2-amino-4-aryl-5H-pyrrolo[3,4-d]pyrimidin-7-(6H)ones, formed initially in the guanidine reaction, readily undergo conversion to 5H-pyrrolo[3,4-d]pyrimidin-7-(6H)ones.
Examining the Use of Direct Behavior Rating on Formative Assessment of Class-Wide Engagement: A Case Study

High-quality formative assessment data are critical to the successful application of any problem-solving model (e.g., response to intervention). Formative data available for a wide variety of outcomes (academic, behavior) and targets (individual, class, school) facilitate effective decisions about needed intervention supports and responsiveness to those supports. The purpose of the current case study is to provide preliminary examination of direct behavior rating methods in class-wide assessment of engagement. A class-wide intervention is applied in a single-case design (B-A-B-A), and both systematic direct observation and direct behavior rating are used to evaluate effects. Results indicate that class-wide direct behavior rating data are consistent with systematic direct observation across phases, suggesting that in this case study, direct behavior rating data are sensitive to classroom-level intervention effects. Implications for future research are discussed.
Longitudinal tracking responses of the weakly electric fish, Sternopygus

The ability of Sternopygus, a South American electric fish, to track longitudinal motion of its surround was studied. Tracking responses were elicited by moving plexiglass enclosures which these fish readily occupy. The longitudinal position of these ‘shuttles’ was varied over time in a sinusoidal or linear fashion. The objectives were to quantify the metrics of longitudinal tracking responses and the roles of the various sensory modalities in this behavior. The following results were obtained: 1. In cases where the longitudinal position of the shuttle varied in a sinusoidal fashion over the time with a periodicity of approximately 0.25 Hz and with a peak to peak excursion of 6–8 cm, fish tracked with little or no phase lag and a gain of 0.8–0.9. For linear motion at 0.25 Hz, the gain of tracking responses was similar, however, a phase lag of approximately 7° was observed. 2. Restricting visual or electrosensory information markedly impaired tracking performance. Fish did not appear to rely on mechanosensory cues in tracking shuttle motion. 3. Jamming signals that were approximately half the amplitude of the fish's own discharges and 4, 8 or 16 Hz greater in frequency failed to impair longitudinal tracking performance. 4. For 6 cm peak to peak shuttle excursion, optimal tracking was observed at rates of motion of 0.1–0.2 Hz. 5. The electromotor component of longitudinal tracking responses was most clearly seen in fish that had impaired vision due to ‘frosted lenses’ over their eyes.
The phase, spectral shape and frequency shift of a self-phase modulated pulse

Abstract We show that, due to self-steepening, the phase of the self-phase modulated (SPM) signal, generated in a X (3) dispersionless medium i.e. thin sample, is asymmetrical in the time domain; that the SPM spectral distribution anti-Stokes extent is larger than the Stokes extent and that the spectral maximum is shifted to the Stokes side.
Dual geometric field theory

A Weyl geometry with a gauge-invariant, Riemannian subgeometry is used to geometrize the combined Einstein-Maxwell theory. A generalized Hamilton-Jacobi equation from particle mechanics emerges as an immediate consistency requirement. The time-independent, Coulomb field case is found to include at least lowest-order quantum effects as in wave mechanics. Possible microscopic entropy is identified.
A methodology to define physical constants using mathematical constants

Fundamental physical constants are directly related to mathematical constants through a geometric structure defined by mathematical constants. Using the wavelength-frequency triangle pair, the numeric value for the speed of light is derived without knowing the physical size of the units by which it is defined, length and a duration of time. The values derived by this process will allow the creation of a set of scientific units that are universal, permanent and invariant in time, with the base units referenced to the same numeric value.
The Trajectories of Adolescents' Perceptions of School Climate, Deviant Peer Affiliation, and Behavioral Problems During the Middle School Years

This longitudinal study examined trajectories of change in adolescents' perceptions of four dimensions of school climate (academic support, behavior management, teacher social support, peer social support) and the effects of such trajectories on adolescent problem behaviors. We also tested whether school climate moderated the associations between deviant peer affiliation and adolescent problem behaviors. The 1,030 participating adolescents from 8 schools were followed from 6th through 8th grades (54% female; 76% European American). Findings indicated that all the dimensions of school climate declined and behavioral problems and deviant peer affiliation increased. Declines in each of the dimensions were associated with increases in behavioral problems. The prediction of problem behavior from peer affiliation was moderated by adolescents' perceptions of school climate.
Lines in space. Part 8. Line(s) through four lines

In this paper we give the solution for the following geometric problem. Given four arbitrarily placed lines in space, K, L, M, and N, find a fifth line V that intersects all four. And if there is more than one, find all of them. The author aims at an analytic solution and have developed some notation and basic tools for manipulating lines in projective 3-space; and used these tools on lines in space. And on the way to the solution, we encounter an interesting relationship between dimensions that is a useful tool for many other geometrical problems.
Further development of a diode-pumped Nd:YVO4/Nd:YAG hybrid oscillator

A hybrid diode-pumped laser, incorporating an end-pumped Nd:YAG rod and a side-pumped slab of Nd:YVO 4 used at grazing incidence, has been operated at a repetition rate of 1000 pps. With an average power of 5 W deposited in the Nd:YAG, the output power of 1.8 W was twice that obtained when only the Nd:YVO 4 was pumped. With a pulse duration of 4.5 ns, this system provides a peak power of 400 kW in a near diffraction limited beam.
COVER CROP SEEDING DATE INFLUENCE ON FALL NITROGEN RECOVERY

Planting cover crops after corn-silage harvest could have a critical role in the recovery of residual N and N from fall-applied manure, which would otherwise be lost to the environment. Experiments were conducted at the University of Massachusetts Research Farm during the 2004–2006 growing seasons. Treatments consisted of oat and winter rye cover crops, and no cover crop, and four cover-crop dates of planting. The earliest planting dates of oat and winter rye produced the maximum biomass yield and resulted in the highest nitrate accumulation in both cover-crop species. The average nitrate accumulation for the 3 years in winter rye and oat at the earliest time of planting was 60 and 48 kg ha–1, respectively. In 2004 where the residual N level was high, winter rye accumulated 119 kg nitrate ha–1. While initially soil N levels were relatively high in early September they were almost zero at all sampling depths in all plots with and without cover crops later in the fall before the ground was frozen. However, in plots with cover crops, nitrate was accumulated in the cover-crop tissue, whereas in plots with no cover crop the nitrate was lost to the environment mainly through leaching. The seeding date of cover crops influenced the contribution of N available to the subsequent crop. Corn plants with no added fertilizer, yielded 41% and 34% more silage when planted after oat and rye, respectively, compared with the no–cover crop treatment. Corn-silage yield decreased linearly when planting of cover crops was delayed from early September to early or mid-October. Corn-ear yield was influenced more than silage by the species of cover crop and planting date. Similar to corn silage, ear yield was higher when corn was planted after oat. This could be attributed in part to the winter-kill of oat, giving it more time to decompose in the soil and subsequent greater release of N, while the rapidly increasing C : N ratio of rye can lessen availability to corn plants. Early plantings of cover crops increased corn-ear yield up to 59% compared with corn-ear yield planted after no cover crop.
Office-based laryngeal imaging in awake patients with swept-source optical coherence tomography

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an evolving noninvasive imaging modality and has been used to image the human larynx during surgical endoscopy. The design of a long GRIN lens based probe capable of capturing images of the human larynx by use of a swept-source OCT during a typical office-based laryngoscopy examination is presented. An optical-ballast-based 4F optical relay system is proposed to realize variable working distance with a constant optical delay. In vivo OCT imaging of the human larynx is demonstrated with 40 fame/second. Office-based OCT is a promising imaging modality to study the larynx.
Soluble factors secreted by activated T‐lymphocytes modulate the transcription of the immunosuppressive cytokine TGF‐β2 in glial cells

Coordination of the immune response to injury or disease in the brain is postulated to involve bi-directional discourse between the immune system and the central nervous system. This cross communication involves soluble mediators, including various growth factors, cytokines, and neuropeptides. In this report, we demonstrate that the supernatant from activated T-lymphocytes is able to induce the transcription of a potent cytokine, TGF-beta 2 in glial cells. The activating stimulus invokes signaling mechanisms distinct from known kinase or protease pathways. Activation of TGF-beta 2 transcription correlates with the loss of binding activity for an 80 kDA glial labile repressor protein, GLRP, to a responsive region within the TFG-beta 2 promoter. Although GLRP shares some characteristics with the inducible transcription factor AP-1, it appears to be distinct from known AP-1 family members. These data along with previous observations demonstrating the potent immunosuppressive activity of TGF-beta 2, support a model for a feedback mechanism between the activated T-lymphocytes and astrocytes via TGF-beta 2 to regulate the immune response.
Cleanup of Samples for High Performance Chromatography and Instrumental Analysis

Abstract Cleanup methods have been developed which allow utilization of modern chromatographic techniques and instrumental readouts. A cellulose cleanup for organo-phosphorus pesticides and carbamates has already been reported. A particulate carbon column has been described for Rumensin. These columns maybe combined to improve the cleanup for organophosphorus and carbamate pesticides. This same column cleanup maybe used for Ochratoxin. Powder charcoal maybe used for the mycotoxins aflatoxin, and zearalencne. It maybe used for T-2 toxin and trichothecenes with some loss (50-75% recovery). The thin layer plates themselves provide a background reference for spectroscopy. This background maybe removed by “annealing” the plates at 400°C for 2 hours. Sweepco distillation maybe used to cleanup biological samples so that carbamates and organophosphorus pesticides maybe analyzed by thin layer chromatography. Trichothecenes mycotoxins maybe cleanuped with about 40% loss.
PX-478, an inhibitor of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α, enhances radiosensitivity of prostate carcinoma cells

Overexpression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1alpha (HIF-1alpha) in human tumors is associated with poor prognosis and poor outcome to radiation therapy. Inhibition of HIF-1alpha is considered as a promising approach in cancer therapy. The purpose of this study was to test the efficacy of a novel HIF-1alpha inhibitor PX-478 as a radiosensitizer under normoxic and hypoxic conditions in vitro. PC3 and DU 145 prostate carcinoma cells were treated with PX-478 for 20 hr, and HIF-1alpha protein level and clonogenic cell survival were determined under normoxia and hypoxia. Effects of PX-478 on cell cycle distribution and phosphorylation of H2AX histone were evaluated. PX-478 decreased HIF-1alpha protein in PC3 and DU 145 cells. PX-478 produced cytotoxicity in both cell lines with enhanced toxicity under hypoxia for DU-145. PX-478 (20 mumol/L) enhanced the radiosensitivity of PC3 cells irradiated under normoxic and hypoxic condition with enhancement factor (EF) 1.4 and 1.56, respectively. The drug was less effective in inhibiting HIF-1alpha and enhancing radiosensitivity of DU 145 cells compared to PC3 cells with EF 1.13 (normoxia) and 1.25 (hypoxia) at 50 mumol/L concentration. PX-478 induced S/G2M arrest in PC3 but not in DU 145 cells. Treatment of PC3 and DU 145 cells with the drug resulted in phosphorylation of H2AX histone and prolongation of gammaH2AX expression in the irradiated cells. PX-478 is now undergoing Phase I clinical trials as an oral agent. Although the precise mechanism of enhancement of radiosensitivity remains to be identified, this study suggests a potential role for PX-478 as a clinical radiation enhancer.
Analysis of transport processes with granular media using the constricted tube model

Abstract Four kinds of transport processes occurring in granular media were studied, using the recently formulated constricted tube model for media characteriza The problems considered were: (a) momentum transfer associated with the flow through the media; (b) convective mass transfer; (c) axial dispersion; and collection of aerosol particles in granular beds. Special emphasis was placed on the effect of the wall geometry of the constricted tube on the relevan relationships obtained from model predictions.
CHRFAM7A, a human-specific and partially duplicated α7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptor gene with the potential to specify a human-specific inflammatory response to injury

Conventional wisdom presumes that the α7nAChR product of CHRNA7 expression mediates the ability of the vagus nerve to regulate the inflammatory response to injury and infection. Yet, 15 years ago, a 2nd structurally distinct and human-specific α7nAChR gene was discovered that has largely escaped attention of the inflammation research community. The gene, originally called dupα7nAChR but now known as CHRFAM7A, has been studied exhaustively in psychiatric research because of its association with mental illness. However, dupα7nAChR/CHRFAM7A expression is relatively low in human brain but elevated in human leukocytes. Furthermore, α7nAChR research in human tissues has been confounded by cross-reacting antibodies and nonspecific oligonucleotide primers that crossreact in immunoblotting, immunohistochemistry, and RT-PCR. Yet, 3 independent reports show the human-specific CHRFAM7A changes cell responsiveness to the canonical α7nAChR/CHRNA7 ion-gated channel. Because of its potential for the injury research community, its possible significance to human leukocyte biology, and its relevance to human inflammation, we review the discovery and structure of the dupα7nAChR/CHRFAM7A gene, the distribution of its mRNA, and its biologic activities and then discuss its possible role(s) in specifying human inflammation and injury. In light of emerging concepts that point to a role for human-specific genes in complex human disease, the existence of a human-specific α7nAChR regulating inflammatory responses in injury underscores the need for caution in extrapolating findings in the α7nAChR literature to man. To this end, we discuss the translational implications of a uniquely human α7nAChR-like gene on new drug target discovery and therapeutics development for injury, infection, and inflammation.
Search for strongly deformed structures and observation of multiple nucleon alignments in W 174

Highly excited states, up to spin $39\ensuremath{\hbar}$, have been established in $^{174}\mathrm{W}$, using the Gammasphere array. Ultimate cranker calculations predict the appearance of triaxial, strongly deformed structures above spin $30\ensuremath{\hbar}$ in $^{174}\mathrm{W}$. A new approach was developed for a comprehensive search of the data for such structures, similar to those observed in the Lu and Hf isotopes. No evidence was found for strongly deformed bands in the W isotopes populated in this experiment. Existing rotational structures have been considerably extended, allowing for the observation of both neutron and proton alignments in a number of bands. There is evidence for the ${i}_{13/2}$ neutron and possibly both the ${h}_{9/2}$ and ${h}_{11/2}$ proton crossings. The observed neutron and proton crossing frequencies are in good agreement with predictions of Woods-Saxon cranking calculations using an empirical pair-gap energy, and they lead to an improved understanding of the underlying structure of the bands.
A matter of collection and detection for intraoperative and noninvasive near-infrared fluorescence molecular imaging: To see or not to see?

Purpose: Although fluorescence molecular imaging is rapidly evolving as a new combinational drug/device technology platform for molecularly guided surgery and noninvasive imaging, there remains no performance standards for efficient translation of “first-in-humans” fluorescent imaging agents using these devices. Methods: The authors employed a stable, solid phantom designed to exaggerate the confounding effects of tissue light scattering and to mimic low concentrations (nM–pM) of near-infrared fluorescent dyes expected clinically for molecular imaging in order to evaluate and compare the commonly used charge coupled device (CCD) camera systems employed in preclinical studies and in human investigational studies. Results: The results show that intensified CCD systems offer greater contrast with larger signal-to-noise ratios in comparison to their unintensified CCD systems operated at clinically reasonable, subsecond acquisition times. Conclusions: Camera imaging performance could impact the success of future “first-in-humans” near-infrared fluorescence imaging agent studies.
The Role of Internal Factors in the Teaching of Current Events.

Abstract This study examines the role of internal factors in curricular decisions of elementary teachers regarding current events instruction. A sample of elementary teachers answered survey questions that included items measuring their attention to current events. A construct called news awareness was developed. Additional items in the survey had teachers report on how frequently they taught about current events. A Chi-square analysis indicated that the frequency of teaching current events increases as the level of news awareness increases. The causes of poor teacher news awareness are discussed. Recommendations include efforts in the areas of teacher training, testing, and recruitment, and the mandating of current events instruction.
Photosensitized Reduction of Sulfonium Salts: Evidence for Nondissociative Electron Transfer

The photosensitized reductions of 4-cyanobenzylmethylphenyl sulfonium tetrafluoroborate (1-BF4) by 9-phenylanthracene, 2-ethyl-9,10-dimethoxyanthracene, or perylene excited singlet states gives quantitative yields of phenyl methyl sulfide. Fluorescence quenching and the quantum yields for product formation, as functions of [1-BF4], give bimolecular rate constants (0.58−1.6 × 1010 M-1 s-1) for reaction of the excited sensitizers with the sulfonium salt. The limiting quantum yields, corresponding to infinite [1-BF4], are 0.65−0.77 for the three sensitizers, revealing significant inefficiencies in the photoreduction. These inefficiencies are assigned to the partitioning of a sulfuranyl radical intermediate in a two-step associative electron-transfer mechanism.
Product vs. process innovations and economic fluctuations

Abstract The effects of product and process innovations on economic fluctuations are studied in this paper. The main features of the model are endogenous product innovations and lower-bound consumption constraints on each variety. Results show that in cases when productivity is low compared to the number of available varieties, process innovations increase economic activity, whereas, the effects of product innovations are not significant. However, if the number of different varieties of goods available is low compared to productivity and the lower-bound consumption constraints bind, process innovations might be contractionary.
Optical imaging measurements of oxygen transport fluctuations and gradients in tumor microvascular networks

It is well established that hypoxia can influence tumor biology and physiology, gene expression, metastatic potential, treatment efficacy, and patient survival. Most human solid tumors have been shown to have some hypoxic regions, thus there is a strong motivation to understand the various causes of hypoxia. One key to understanding tumor hypoxia involves the study of oxygen transport to tumors, and the connection between hypoxia, tumor microvasculature, and the tumor microenvironment. Recent research has suggested that the causes of tumor hypoxia are much more complex than indicated by the classical paradigms ("chronic" and "acute" hypoxia), and several potential factors have been identified. Two such factors are temporal fluctuations in tissue pO2 and longitudinal gradients in oxygen transport. Research has shown the existence of low frequency (<2 cycles per minute) fluctuations in tumor pO2 without cessation of blood flow that can lead to transient hypoxia. In addition, longitudinal gradients in tumor pO2 along the arteriolar afferent direction have been documented in window chamber tumors. However, the causes of the pO2 temporal fluctuations and longitudinal gradients are not exactly known, and the clinical significance of these observations is not well understood. In this preliminary study, we demonstrate the potential of optical imaging measurements of hemoglobin saturation to add new information in these areas. Slow temporal fluctuations of hemoglobin saturation (HbSat) and gradients in the average HbSat were observed in some 4T1 mouse mammary carcinoma microvessels. With additional research, the mechanisms behind these phenomena and insights into their clinical significance may be revealed.
Daytime three‐dimensional drifts at Millstone Hill Observatory

Vertical drift measurements in the topside F region at midlatitudes have confirmed the importance of dynamical processes, but it has been difficult isolating those processes due to E X B drifts from those due to neutral winds. To remove this ambiguity, three-dimensional drift measurements were made at Millstone Hill Observatory with the steerable L-band radar in conjunction with the vertical UHF antenna. The geometry of the experiment is discussed and daytime drifts are presented. Unusual lifting of the F-layer peak was observed on two occasions. A reversal in the deduced meridional neutral wind is observed in one case and an enhanced eastward electric field in the other.
Ionization-induced self-compression of tightly focused femtosecond laser pulses.

As lasers become progressively higher in power, optical damage thresholds will become a limiting factor. Using the nonlinear optics of plasma may be a way to circumvent these limits. Here, we present a new self-compression mechanism for high-power, femtosecond laser pulses based on geometrical focusing and three dimensional spatiotemporal reshaping in an ionizing plasma. By propagating tightly focused, 10-mJ femtosecond laser pulses through a 100-mu m gas jet, the interplay between ionization gradients, focusing, and diffraction of the light pulse leads to stable and uniform self-compression of the pulse, while maintaining a high-energy throughput and excellent refocusability. Self-compression down to 16 fs from an original 36-fs pulse is measured using second-harmonic-generation frequency-resolved optical gating. Using this mechanism, we are able to maintain a high transmission (>88%) such that the pulse peak power is doubled. Three-dimensional numerical simulations are performed to support our interpretation of the experimental observations.
Evaluation of Peat as a Dietary Component for Turkeys

Abstract Three experiments were conducted to determine the nutritional and safety characteristics of peat for Nicholas Large White turkeys using a corn-soy basal diet containing six levels of peat. Peat was added at the expense of the entire diet, i.e., 20% peat means 80% control diet and 20% peat. Day-old turkey poults were fed 0, 2.5, 5, 10, 20, and 40% peat for 3 weeks. Peat significantly (P Compensatory growth and better feed efficiencies were observed when birds fed higher peat levels during 8 to 12 weeks were returned to the control diet. Body weights for turkeys fed 2.5, 5, 10, and 20% peat were similar to control at 20 weeks but higher by 24 weeks of age.
Comparison of fluorescent in situ hybridization HER-2 / neu results on core needle biopsy and excisional biopsy in primary breast cancer

HER-2/neu status is critical for the therapy for breast carcinoma. Fluorescent in situ hybridization for gene amplification and immunohistochemical stains for protein expression are widely used methods to detect HER-2/neu status. Multiple studies have shown fluorescent in situ hybridization and immunohistochemical stain results to have high concordance rates. To our knowledge, a comparison between fluorescent in situ hybridization results for core needle biopsy and the subsequent excisional biopsy specimens has not yet been studied. We retrospectively evaluated the fluorescence in situ hybridization and immunohistochemical results in both the breast core needle and the excisional biopsy of 125 patients with invasive breast carcinoma from 2002 to 2005. There was complete concordance with respect to both immunohistochemical and fluorescence in situ hybridization results for core needle biopsy and excisional biopsy specimens in 87% of the patients evaluated. Comparison of fluorescent in situ hybridization results of the 129 core needle biopsies to the 131 excisional biopsies of all 125 patients showed a concordance rate of 92%. The immunohistochemical stain results of the same core needle and excisional biopsies showed a concordance rate of 98%. Comparison of the immunohistochemical stain results with the fluorescent in situ hybridization results for all 260 cases examined showed 95% concordance. On the basis of our study, we observed that repeating HER-2/neu testing by immunohistochemical stain and/or fluorescent in situ hybridization methods on excisional biopsy is not unreasonable, in particular in cases of intratumoral heterogeneity, indeterminate/borderline HER-2/neu results and after neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
Toy Story: Illustrating Gender Differences in a Motor Skills Task

To challenge students' stereotypes about gendered performance on motor skills tasks, we developed a classroom active learning demonstration. Four 3-person, same-gender teams received either a Barbie(r) doll or a Transformer(r), and team members dressed the Barbie or manipulated the Transformer from a tank to a robot as quickly as possible, with each person responsible for 1 step of the process. As predicted, the teams were able to complete the assignment more quickly when given a gender stereotype-congruent task than an incongruent task. The demonstration served as a useful tool in helping students think critically about the origin and significance of gender differences, particularly in the area of manual dexterity. Quantitative data confirmed that students believed the demonstration was helpful and beneficial.
Ultrafast studies of metal-metal bond cleavage in Fe3(CO)12 in solution

Abstract The ultrafast dynamics following metal-metal bond breaking in Fe3(CO)12 have been investigated. Following excitation at 590 nm, the ground state Fe3(CO)12 is converted to a coordinatively unsaturated isomer with bridging COs, Fe3(CO)12(unsat.), within the instrument response of 1.5 ps. The unsaturated isomer then returns to the ground state with an exponential time constant of 150 ps. This rate of isomerization back to the ground state implies a barrier of 4.3 kcal mol−1. This is in agreement with the results of Cotton and Hunter who put an upper limit of 6 kcal mol−1 on the isomerization of Fe3(CO)12 from an all terminal structure to a bridging structure. A portion (20%) of the excited molecules do not return to the ground state on the time scale of this experiment (
Diffuse High Intensity PD–L1 Staining in Thymic Epithelial Tumors

Introduction Blockade of the immune checkpoint programmed death receptor ligand-1 (PD-L1)/PD-1 pathway has well-established clinical activity across many tumor types. PD-L1 protein expression by immunohistochemistry is emerging as a predictive biomarker of response to these therapies. Here, we examine PD-L1 expression in a thymic epithelial tumor (TET) tissue microarray (TMA). Methods The TMA contained 69 TETs and 17 thymic controls, with each case represented by triplicate cores. The TMA was stained with rabbit monoclonal antibody (clone 15; Sino Biological, Beijing, China) to human PD-L1. PD-L1 staining was scored based on intensity as follows: 0=none, 1=equivocal/uninterpretable, 2=weak, and 3=intermediate-strong. Those cases with all cores scoring three in the epithelial component were categorized as PD-L1high and the remaining as PD-L1low. Results PD-L1high scores were more frequent in TETs than in controls (68.1% versus 17.6%; p = 0.0036). PD-L1 scores and histology were significantly correlated, with higher intensity staining in World Health Organization (WHO). B2/B3/C TETs. Only 14.8% of TETs had PD-L1 staining of associated lymphocytes. In an adjusted analysis (age/sex), PD-L1high TETs had a significantly worse overall survival (hazard ratio: 5.40, 95% confidence interval: 1.13–25.89; p = 0.035) and a trend for worse event-free survival (hazard ratio: 2.94, 95% confidence interval: 0.94–9.24; p = 0.064). Conclusions PD-L1 expression was present in all cases of TETs within the epithelial component but only in a minority in the lymphocytic component. TETs stained more intensely for PD-L1 than in controls, and PD-L1high TETs were associated with more aggressive histology and worse prognosis. This study lends rationale to a clinical trial with anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy in this rare tumor type.
Supercritical fluid extraction procedure for the removal of trace organic species from solid samples

Extraction de biphenyles (polychloro) contenus dans des sediments, et d'hydrocarbures polyaromatiques contenus dans des particules urbaines
Unilateral cervical cancer in a patient with cervix duplex

Abstract Background. Although uterine anomalies are uncommon, gynecologists must be aware of the anatomical challenges that may be encountered from these anomalies. Cervical cancer in the context of a mullerian lateral fusion defect is rare. Case. A case of a unilateral IB1 squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix in the setting of a complete uterovaginal septum and cervix duplex is described. Conclusion. Uterine anomalies compound diagnostic difficulty of routine pathology. Thorough examination and evaluation are crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. Genital tract duplication, although rare, should always be considered.
Nitric Oxide-Induced Interstrand Cross-Links in DNA

The DNA damaging effects of nitrous acid have been extensively studied, and the formation of interstrand cross-links have been observed. The potential for this cross-linking to occur through a common nitrosating intermediate derived from nitric oxide is investigated here. Using a HPLC laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) system, the amount of interstrand cross-link formed on nitric oxide treatment of the 5'-fluorescein-labeled oligomer ATATCGATCGATAT was determined. This self-complimentary sequence contains two 5'-CG sequences, which is the preferred site for nitrous acid-induced cross-linking. Nitric oxide was delivered to an 0.5 mM oligomer solution at 15 nmol/mL/min to give a final nitrite concentration of 652 microM. The resulting concentration of the deamination product, xanthine, in this sample was found to be 211 +/- 39 nM, using GC/MS, and the amount of interstrand cross-link was determined to be 13 +/- 2.5 nM. Therefore, upon nitric oxide treatment, the cross-link is found at approximately 6% of the amount of the deamination product. Using this system, detection of the cross-link is also possible for significantly lower doses of nitric oxide, as demonstrated by treatment of the same oligomer with NO at a rate of 18 nmol/mL/min resulting in a final nitrite concentration of 126 microM. The concentration of interstrand cross-link was determined to be 3.6 +/- 0.1 nM in this sample. Therefore, using the same dose rate, when the total nitric oxide concentration delivered drops by a factor of approximately 5, the concentration of cross-link drops by a factor of about 4-indicating a qausi-linear response. It may now be possible to predict the number of cross-links in a small genome based on the number of CpG sequences and the yield of xanthine derived from nitrosative deamination.
Immune mechanisms for destruction of erythrocytes in vivo. I. The effect of IgG rabbit antibodies on rat erythrocytes.

The hemolytic, agglutinating, and coating antibody activities of the serum of rabbits immunized with rat erythrocytes could be separated at least partially by DEAE and CM cellulose chromatographic fractionation of ΓG globulins. The serologic activities of serums from different animals did not separate identically by these methods, and serums obtained from animals immunized for only two weeks displayed more chromatographic heterogeneity in regard to these properties than did serums obtained after four weeks of immunization. When Cr51-labeled rat erythrocytes were sensitized with fractionated antibodies and then injected into isologous rats, shortened survival and sequestration of cells in the liver was observed to be a function of the amount of lytic antibodies applied. Cells sensitized with even large amounts of agglutinating or coating (but non-lytic) antibodies survived normally. Lysis observed with tests in vitro and shortened survival with liver sequestration in vivo were both either abolished or markedly reduced when the complement-fixing properties of lytic antibodies were altered by pepsin digestion or reduction and alkylation. Heated antibody fractions (56 C for two hours) supported indirect complement antiglobulin tests in vitro and, when tested in vivo, supported a pattern of splenic sequestration with shortened survival time of sensitized cells.
Aggregation of stations in queueing network models of multiprogrammed computers

In queueing network models the complexity of the model can be reduced by aggregating stations. This amounts to obtaining the throughput of the flow-equivalent station for the subnetwork of stations to be aggregated. When the subnetwork has a separable solution, aggregation can be carried out using the Chandy-Herzog-Woo theorem. The throughput of the subnetwork can be expressed explicitly in terms of its parameters when the stations are balanced (have equal utilizations). This expression for throughput can be used as an approximation when the stations are relatively unbalanced. The basic expression can be modified to increase the accuracy of the approximation. A generating function approach was used to obtain upper bounds on the relative error due to the basic approximation and its modifications. Provided that the relative error bound is tolerable, a set of unbalanced stations can be replaced by a single aggregate station or a set of balanced stations. Finally, we propose a methodology to simplify the queueing network model of a large-scale multiprogrammed computer, which makes use of the previous aggregation results.
The perineal prostatectomy: a modified Young technique for conservative enucleations.

SUMMARY Because of its minimal morbidity the perineal prostatectomy merits wider use for conservative enucleations in men who are not sexually active, or who are severely debilitated. The relationships of the levator prostata? muscle to the urogenital diaphragm and the relationship of the rectum to the levator prostatas with the patient in the perineal position are not adequately described in the literature and the correct concepts which are important to the successful execution of this operation are discussed and illustrated. Hemostatic sutures which coincidentaliy close the capsular incision are described.
Spillover Effects: How Consumers Respond to Unexpected Changes in Price and Quality

This article examines how unexpected changes in the marketing mix of one product in a retail setting can influence demand for other, unrelated, items. Results from two laboratory studies show that spillover effects can occur in response to both positive and negative changes in either the price or quality of a product, such that positive changes increase total spending on other items and negative changes reduce it. The results also demonstrate that an attributional process underlies these effects, indicating that consumers experience specific affective responses directed at the retailer that lead them either to reward or punish the retailer accordingly.