cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha and the Gastrointestinal Epithelium: Implications for the Gut-Brain Axis and Hypertension.

The colonic epithelium is the site of production and transport of many vasoactive metabolites and neurotransmitters that can modulate the immune system, affect cellular metabolism, and subsequently regulate blood pressure. As an important interface between the microbiome and its host, the colon can contribute to the development of hypertension. In this critical review, we highlight the role of colonic inflammation and microbial metabolites on the gut brain axis in the pathology of hypertension, with special emphasis on the interaction between tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) and short chain fatty acid (SCFA) metabolites. Here, we review the current literature and identify novel pathways in the colonic epithelium related to hypertension. A network analysis on transcriptome data previously generated in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats reveals differences in several pathways associated with inflammation involving TNFα (NF-κB and STAT Expression Targets) as well as oxidative stress. We also identify down-regulation of networks associated with gastrointestinal function, cardiovascular function, enteric nervous system function, and cholinergic and adrenergic transmission. The analysis also uncovered transcriptome responses related to glycolysis, butyrate oxidation, and mitochondrial function, in addition to gut neuropeptides that serve as modulators of blood pressure and metabolic function. We present a model for the role of TNFα in regulating bacterial metabolite transport and neuropeptide signaling in the gastrointestinal system, highlighting the complexity of host–microbiota interactions in hypertension.
Living with television and the Internet

We communicate to survive. The social history of our species can be characterized by how we continuously expand our ability to connect with others. Television and the Internet function as unique re...
Treatment fidelity in eating disorders and psychological research: Current status and future directions.

OBJECTIVE The evaluation and use of treatment fidelity procedures are rare in the development and implementation of psychological interventions. This article aims to review the construct of treatment fidelity, highlight limitations to currently available measures, and introduce a conceptual framework for studying and adapting fidelity measures in clinical research and practice using eating disorders as an example. METHOD As treatment fidelity assesses whether an intervention was delivered as intended, we operationalized this construct as: (a) treatment adherence, (b) therapist competence, and (c) treatment differentiation. RESULTS There is a significant gap in the literature assessing and documenting treatment fidelity. Available studies indicate that existing adherence measures can be time consuming, costly, and are not widely used in the field. Furthermore, therapist competence is a complex and context-dependent construct that is challenging to measure. Finally, treatment differentiation is often inferred by ensuring adherence. DISCUSSION The development of simplified formal tests of treatment fidelity would help draw conclusions about treatment efficacy and improve the dissemination and implementation of interventions to promote optimal clinical outcomes.
Anticholinergic Use in Parkinson’s Disease: Practice Patterns in Patients with Cognitive Impairment (2720)

Objective: To explore utilization of anticholinergic medications using the Parkinson Foundation Quality Improvement Initiative (PF-QII) registry. Background: Recent publications have highlighted the association between anticholinergic medication use and increased rates of dementia diagnoses. However, despite accumulating data on the negative cognitive impact of anticholinergics, these medications remain part of the treatment armamentarium in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Design/Methods: Data were collected from the PF-QII registry, an international multi-center prospective study of PD care and outcomes at expert centers. Frequency of anticholinergic use in the cohort was analyzed, and characteristics of anticholinergic users and non-users were compared. Utilization rates of anticholinergics in patients with and without cognitive dysfunction were compared. Additionally, frequency of hospitalizations and ER visits (HER) was compared between anticholinergic users and non-users. Results: 201 (3.4%) out of 5,949 patients were on anticholinergics at baseline visit. Compared to non-users, anticholinergic users tended to be younger (64.5±9.0 vs, 68.2±9.1, p Conclusions: Although there has been a decline in overall utilization of anticholinergics in the PD population, there remains persistent use of anticholinergics in patients with cognitive dysfunction. We additionally found that anticholinergic users performed worse on a cognitive task despite being younger than non-users. This highlights the need for greater education to improve clinicians’ prescribing practices for anticholinergics, given their potential for negative impact on cognition. Disclosure: Dr. Shetty has nothing to disclose. Dr. Dubaz has nothing to disclose. Dr. Yu has nothing to disclose. Dr. Gao has nothing to disclose. Dr. Simuni has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with Acadia, Adamas, Teva, UCB Pharma, AbbVie, Anavex, Allergan, Acorda, NeuroDerm, PhotoPharmics, Revance, Sanofi, Sunovion, Voyager, US World Meds, and the Michael J. Fox Foundation. Dr. Simuni has received research support from Biogen, Roche, NeuroDerm, Sanofi, NINDS, the Michael J. Fox Foundation, and the Parkinson Foundation.
15 Reducing surgical specimen errors through multidisciplinary quality improvement

Background Of approximately 10,000 surgical specimens collected during nearly 34,000 surgeries performed at Nationwide Children’s Hospital annually, we averaged 10 errors/1000 specimens collected. This and any level of preventable harm is unacceptable, as it could lead to diagnostic errors, improper treatment selection and treatment delay. Objectives This quality improvement (QI) effort aimed to decrease errors in surgical specimens from 10 errors per 1,000 surgical specimens to 0. Methods Using the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) Model for Improvement QI methodology, we determined the root causes of error (figure 1), identified key drivers (figure 2), and tested change interventions. We implemented changes in surgical specimen labeling, standardized specimen time-out and reconciliation processes, and optimized a method of communication between consultants, surgeons, operating room staff, and laboratory staff with the implementation of a Specimen Request Form within our electronic medical record system. Results We identified 234 specimen errors in 33,962 surgical pathology specimens during the 46 months of data collection. After multiple PDSAs and implementation of interventions, the error rate decreased from 10 to 2.3 (figure 3) errors per 1,000 specimens (p Conclusions A multidisciplinary project team – including representatives from nursing staff, surgical staff, radiology, medical consultation services, laboratory medicine, pathology, information technology, and QI services – implemented changes to specimen test requesting and intraoperative specimen handling with an associated reduction in errors to reduce potential patient harm involving surgical specimen errors. This presentation will demonstrate how applying these methods and interventions can be associated with a reduction in surgical specimen errors.
Bursting Rate Variability

In this paper, a new electromyographic phenomenon, referred to as Bursting Rate Variability (BRV), is reported. Not only does it manifest itself visually as a train of short periods of accrued surface electromyographic (sEMG) activity in the traces, but it has a deeper underpinning because the sEMG bursts are synchronous with wavelet packets in the D8 subband of the Daubechies 3 (db3) wavelet decomposition of the raw signal referred to as "D8 doublets"---which are absent during muscle relaxation. Moreover, the db3 wavelet decomposition reconstructs the \emph{entire} sEMG bursts with two contiguous relatively high detail coefficients at level 8, suggesting a high incidence of two consecutive neuronal discharges. Most importantly, the timing between successive bursts shows some variability, hence the BRV acronym. Contrary to Heart Rate Variability (HRV), where the R-wave is easily identified, here, time-localization of the burst requires a statistical waveform matching between the "D8 doublet" and the burst in the raw sEMG signal. Furthermore, statistical fitting of the empirical distribution of return times shows a striking difference between control and quadriplegic subjects. Finally, the BRV rate appears to be within 60-88 bursts per minute on average among 9 human subjects, suggesting a possible connection between BRV and HRV.
Parametrizations of the Poisson–Schrödinger equations in spherical symmetry

We consider the asymptotically flat standing wave solutions to the Poisson–Schrodinger system of equations. These equations are also known as the Schrodinger–Newton equations and are the Newtonian ...
Kinetics of Silver Cluster Formation in Silver Halide

Publisher Summary In silver halide photographic grains, silver cluster formation is a major means of relaxation of the induced photocharge. In these systems, the maximum photocharge is reached in less than 1 microsecond. The decay process is in general not adequately described by simple first or second order decay kinetics. A combination of first plus second kinetics conforms well with the experimental data. From measurements of photocharge decay of this type, it is possible to evaluate the first order, k1, and the second order, k2, decay constants for emulsion coatings which had undergone systematic variation in degree of reduction sensitization and chemical sensitization. Based on these determinations and on photographic evaluations of the same series of emulsion coatings, a mechanism is formulated involving k1 and k2, which explains the variation in photographic efficiency as a function of reduction or chemical sensitization. In this mechanism, k1 is the rate constant for the reaction of a trapped photoelectron with an interstitial silver ion. The product of this reaction is in turn a trap for another photoelectron. A continuation of these processes leads to the formation of small, stable silver clusters (latent image centers), which serve as catalytic sites for further reduction of the silver halide grain during the development stage of photography.
Analysis of prevalent trend of epidemic cerebrospinal meningitis in 1988～2007 in Linyi City

Objective To analyze the prevalent trends of cerebrospinal meningitis in Linyi City.Methods The epidemiological findings of cerebrospinal meningitis were analyzed.Results From 1988 to 2007,apart from a slight rebound in 2004,2005,the disease showed an overall declining trend;The positive rates of healthy population group A and group C antibody were 95.20%,and 39.33%.Conclusion At present,the group have the higher level of antibodies,there is no conditions for large-scale outbreak of the disease.
Sacred Landscapes and Profane Structures: How Offshore Wind Power Challenges the Environmental Impact Review Process

The review of the 420-megawatt Cape Wind project proposed for Nantucket Sound, being conducted under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA), challenges existing environmental review laws and programs. First, the review shows how NEPA and MEPA can provide a forum for crystallizing government policy; here, on siting and reviewing offshore wind power projects. Second, the review raises concerns that in creating a system of planning and regulating the ocean, we might zone out renewable energy projects, the way we have allowed affordable housing and other social needs to be zoned out of the land. Finally, the Cape Wind review dramatizes how our cult of wilderness, with is presumption that human actions always harm the natural environment, can impede the development of a truly sustainable approach to environmental law and policy.
Further characterization of factor VIII-deficient mice created by gene targeting: RNA and protein studies.

Previously we created two strains of factor VIII-deficient mice by insertion of a neo gene into (1) the 3′ end of exon 16 and (2) exon 17 of the factor VIII gene. Affected mice of both strains have no plasma factor VIII activity, yet are healthy with no spontaneous bleeding. Factor VIII-deficient females bred with affected males survive pregnancy and delivery. We used reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction of liver RNA to characterize factor VIII mRNA processing. Factor VIII mRNA of the exon 16 knockout strain contains neo sequences plus 17 bp of intron 16 due to use of a cryptic donor site in intron 16. All factor VIII mRNA of the exon 17 knockout strain lacks exon 17 and neo sequences. In skipping exon 17, the intron 16 donor site or a cryptic donor site 46 bp 3′ to the intron 16 donor site are used. Thus, factor VIII deficiency in exon 16 knockout mice is due to truncated protein, while in exon 17 knockout mice it is due to either truncated or partially deleted protein. After immunizing exon 16 knockout mice with human recombinant factor VIII, two monoclonal antibodies were obtained that recognize
Characterization of natural chabazite and 5a synthetic zeolites: Part II: Adsorption properties and porosity

Abstract Nitrogen adsorption isotherms were measured for four samples of chabazite, collected from different geographical locations, and for a Linde 5A synthetic zeolite. All isotherms were Type I and obeyed the Langmuir adsorption model. Surface areas and pore diameters were calculated from the adsorption data. The MP method was used to determine the pore volume distribution for each sample. Results indicated that the chabazite samples had nearly identical properties, and these properties were very similar to those of the Linde 5A synthetic zeolite.
Geometry-defining processors for partial differential equations

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the geometry–defining processors (GDPs) for partial differential equations. Many computational tasks in engineering and scientific analysis involve extensive processing of geometry. For instance, in the computer-aided design of mechanical and electrical systems, the efficient manipulation of geometric objects is a critical prerequisite for effective system analysis and simulation. The importance of geometry processing has led to the development of special-purpose processors and peripherals optimized for this purpose precisely. An example of such a device is the graphics tablet, which is presently widely used as a peripheral for inputting two-dimensional curves directly from graphical representations. The success of the graphics tablet derives from the fact that the geometric relations that are self-evident to the user in two-dimensional physical space are directly translated by the device into a symbolic representation that can then be used for further processing. By virtue of physical proximity and fidelity to geometric relations, GDP assemblies are able to automatically generate symbolic representations of three-dimensional solids, and perform parallel computations on the associated connection topology.
The geriatric patient with obstructive uropathy

‘Obstructive nephropathy’ refers to the renal disease caused by impaired flow of urine or tubular fluid. ‘Obstructive uropathy’ refers to the structural or functional changes in the urinary tract that impede the normal flow of urine. ‘Hydronephrosis’ describes dilatation of the urinary tract [1].
Brief follow-up on recent studies of Theia’s accretion

Abstract Kaib and Cowan (Kaib, N.A., Cowan, N.B. [2015]. Icarus 252, 161–174) recently used terrestrial planet formation simulations to conclude that the moon-forming impactor (Theia) had only a ∼5% or less chance of having the same oxygen isotope composition as Earth, while Mastrobuono-Battisti et al. (Mastrobuono-Battisti, A., Perets, H.B., Raymond, S.N. [2015]. Nature 520, 212–215) used seemingly similar simulations and methods to arrive at a higher value of ∼20% or more. Here we derive the results of both papers from a single set of simulations. Compared to Kaib and Cowan (Kaib, N.A., Cowan, N.B. [2015]. Icarus 252, 161–174), the analysis of Mastrobuono-Battisti et al. (Mastrobuono-Battisti, A., Perets, H.B., Raymond, S.N. [2015]. Nature 520, 212–215) systematically yields more massive Theia analogs and imposes flatter Δ 17 O gradients across the original protoplanetary disk. Both of these effects diminish isotopic differences between Earth and Theia analogs. While it is notoriously difficult to produce systems resembling our actual terrestrial planets, the analysis of Kaib and Cowan (Kaib, N.A., Cowan, N.B. [2015]. Icarus 252, 161–174) more often selects and analyzes Earth and Mars analogs at orbital locations near the real planets. Given this, we conclude that the greater isotopic differences between Earth and Theia found in Kaib and Cowan (Kaib, N.A., Cowan, N.B. [2015]. Icarus 252, 161–174) better reflect the predictions of terrestrial planet formation models. Finally, although simulation uncertainties and a terrestrial contribution to Moon formation enhance the fraction of Theia analogs consistent with the canonical giant impact hypothesis, this fraction still remains in the 5–8% range.
An alternative paradigm for food production, distribution, and consumption: A noneconomist's perspective

The Industrial Food and Agricultural (IFA) industry has become increasingly excoriated by proponents of the Naturalization Food and Agricultural (NFA) paradigm over the past decade. Thought leaders of this alternative movement have been calling for economic and policy overhauls of the food system—touching upon human health, labor rights, the environment, climate change, and animal welfare. Although the majority of these thought leaders are not economists or scientists, their arguments are structured to shape consumer choices and farmers’ production decisions, influence food and agricultural policy, and ultimately affect the economics of the industry. In this article, we survey publications at the forefront of the NFA paradigm, touching upon the work of Pollan, Schlosser, Petrini, Bittman, Nestle, and Kremen, among others, as well as the earlier contributions of Carson, Sinclair, Steinbeck, Buck, and even Jefferson. Their solutions, although short on quantitative analysis and long on prescriptions, address...
NONNUTRITIVE SUCKINO(NNS) DOES NOT STIMULATE THE SECRETION OF LIN6UAL AND GASTRIC LIPASES IN PREMATURE INFANTS

NNS improves weight gain and allows earlier hospital discharge of low birth weight (LBW) infants (Pediatrics 71:41, 1983). The improved weight gain could be due to more efficient nutrient digestion and absprption. Preduodenal lipases have a compensatory function in fat digestion during physiologic (developmental) or pathologic (cystic fibrosis, alchoholism related) pancreatic insufficiency (J Clin Invest 67:838, 1981; 73:374, 1984; Padietr Res 18:402, 1984 and Gestroenterol 1987, in press). We have therefore investigated whether NNS stimulates the secretion of these lipases in LBW infants. Two separate studies were conducted: 1) 9 infants (gest. age 30.5±0.8 wks, postnatal age 29±3 days) received gavage feeding (GF) with and without NNS, each infant being his/her own control. 2) 10 infants (gest. age 29.7±0.8 wks, postnatal age 32±5 days) were divided into two groups: 4 infants received GF without NNS and 6 infants received GF with NNS. Lipase activity was measured in gastric aspirates. These data suggest, that increased secretion of lipases is not the cause of improved weight gain in infants fed by gavage with nonnutritive sucking. (Support: NIH grant HD 10823.)
Characterization of the long-lasting activator protein-1 complex induced by kainic acid treatment

Abstract Kainic acid is known to induce seizures, neuronal damage and cell loss in the rat hippocampus. Our laboratory has shown that a single kainic acid injection elicits acute increases of activator protein-1 DNA-binding activity and this activity stays at an elevated level for 2 weeks after kainic acid injection. However, some pathological changes such as mossy fiber sprouting do not occur until 2–3 weeks after the kainic acid injection and the specific transcription factors regulating the long-term events after kainic acid treatment are not clear. To determine the involvement of activator protein-1 transcription factors in the long-term events after kainic acid treatment, gel mobility-shift and Western blot analyses were used. The results showed that two activator protein-1 complexes with different mobilities occur during the acute stage. However, only the faster-migrating complex as well as the 35–37-kDa fos-related antigen and Jun-D proteins were seen during the late stage. These results suggest that different activator protein-1 complexes exist at different stages after convulsions and that they regulate ensembles of different genes.
Brain, Behavior, Biology, and Music: Some Research Findings and Their Implications for Educational Policy

As an invited contributor to Arts Education Policy Review, I am pleased to have this opportunity to address a readership directly concerned with educational policy. But I have the mark of the interloper. As a university instructor for more than thirty years, I have some knowledge of education, but it does not extend to preschool and K-12. Nor have I expertise as a practitioner in the arts or as a teacher in arts education. My background is in experimental psychology and the physiology of the nervous system. More specifically, my own laboratory is concerned with the questions of how learning takes place in the brain and how the brain makes memories. The fact that I study mainly the auditory cortex (the highest level of the auditory system) brought me into contact with some of the research literature on music, and I have done some research on the neurophysiology of music.
A conjoint-measurement analysis of human judgment

Abstract Rank order preferences were obtained for a set of hypothetical job applicants varying simultaneously on the three attribute dimensions of intelligence (IQ), experience (E), and motivation (M). The resulting ordinal matrices were analyzed by polynomial conjoint measurement techniques to determine if the judges were using a specific configural model, the distributive polynomial (IQ + E)M, or a nonconfigural additive model, IQ + E + M. It was concluded that few subjects utilized the configural strategy in this task and most judgments could be described with an additive model.
Detecting change-points in Markov chains

Markov chains provide a flexible model for dependent random variables with applications in such disciplines as physics, environmental science and economics. In the applied study of Markov chains, it may be of interest to assess whether the transition probability matrix changes during an observed realization of the process. If such changes occur, it would be of interest to estimate the transitions where the changes take place and the probability transition matrix before and after each change. For the case when the number of changes is known, standard likelihood theory is developed to address this problem. The bootstrap is used to aid in the computation of p-values. When the number of changes is unknown, the AIC and BIC measures are used for model selection. The proposed methods are studied empirically and are applied to example sets of data.
Cathepsin B Is Up-Regulated and Mediates Extracellular Matrix Degradation in Trabecular Meshwork Cells Following Phagocytic Challenge

Cells in the trabecular meshwork (TM), a tissue responsible for draining aqueous humor out of the eye, are known to be highly phagocytic. Phagocytic activity in TM cells is thought to play an important role in outflow pathway physiology. However, the molecular mechanisms triggered by phagocytosis in TM cells are unknown. Here we investigated the effects of chronic phagocytic stress on lysosomal function using different phagocytic ligands (E. coli, carboxylated beads, collagen I-coated beads, and pigment). Lysotracker red co-localization and electron micrographs showed the maturation of E. coli- and collagen I-coated beads-containing phagosomes into phagolysosomes. Maturation of phagosomes into phagolysosomes was not observed with carboxylated beads or pigment particles. In addition, phagocytosis of E. coli and collagen I-coated beads led to increased lysosomal mass, and the specific up-regulation and activity of cathepsin B (CTSB). Higher levels of membrane-bound and secreted CTSB were also detected. Moreover, in vivo zymography showed the intralysosomal degradation of ECM components associated with active CTSB, as well as an overall increased gelatinolytic activity in phagocytically challenged TM cells. This increased gelatinolytic activity with phagocytosis was partially blocked with an intracellular CTSB inhibitor. Altogether, these results suggest a potential role of phagocytosis in outflow pathway tissue homeostasis through the up-regulation and/or proteolytic activation of extracellular matrix remodeling genes.
Six Steps to an Effective Federal Service

After three tours of duty in federal service, beginning with the Peace Corps and ending with an eight-year assignment as secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, you would think that I would know a lot about the federal service Paul C Light knows a lot more-and his thoughtful book, A Government III Executed The Decline of the Federal Service and How to Reverse It, should be required reading for students of public administration
Human neuroblastoma cell lines that express N‐myc without gene amplification

Background. About one half of aggressive neuroblastomas lack N-myc amplification. Cell lines from such tumors are needed to determine the biological basis of aggressive tumor behavior. Methods. Neuroblastoma cell lines were established from a primary tumor (SMS-LHN) and a bone marrow metastasis (LA-N-6) of two children with Stage IV neuroblastoma. Although both cell lines and their original tumors lacked N-myc genomic amplification, these patients died of progressive disease. Results. SMS-LHN and LA-N-6 can be distinguished from primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) lines by cell surface antigen expression and catecholamine production. Cytogenetic analysis of each cell line revealed unique genetic rearrangements, whereas both lines showed abnormalities involving chromosome 2. Neither cell line contained double-minute chromosomes, homogeneously staining regions, a 1p chromosomal deletion, or t(11;22). The growth rates of these two new lines in vitro and in vivo (as xenografts in nude mice) are slower than N-myc amplified neuroblastoma lines. Both lines express greater amounts of N-myc RNA and protein relative to nonneuroblastoma cell lines (including PNET), although not to the extent of cell lines with N-myc genomic amplification. Conclusions. The relatively large amount of N-myc expression in these two new cell lines suggests that N-myc expression without amplification could play a role in the pathogenesis of some neuroblastomas. These cell lines should be useful for investigating mechanisms and consequences of N-myc gene activation other than genomic amplification.
Emergent antimicrobial-resistant pathogens in the pediatric intensive care unit

The development of multidrug-resistant bacteria has become a significant challenge for clinicians, particularly those caring for pediatric patients admitted to the intensive care unit. Although the patterns of antibiotic resistance in nosocomial pathogens are similar to those of adults, children are also at risk for acquiring resistant organisms in the community. As the efficacy of currently available antimicrobials becomes increasingly limited, the prevention of the emergence of resistance becomes a critical priority.
Effects of genetic deficiency of cyclooxygenase-1 or cyclooxygenase-2 on functional and histological outcomes following traumatic brain injury in mice

Neuroinflammation contributes to the pathophysiology of acute CNS injury, including traumatic brain injury (TBI). Although prostaglandin lipid mediators of inflammation contribute to a variety of inflammatory responses, their importance in neuroinflammation is not clear. There are conflicting reports as to the efficacy of inhibiting the enzymes required for prostaglandin formation, cyclooxygenase (COX) -1 and COX-2, for improving outcomes following TBI. The purpose of the current study was to determine the role of the COX isoforms in contributing to pathological processes resulting from TBI by utilizing mice deficient in COX-1 or COX-2. Following a mild controlled cortical impact injury, the amount of cortical tissue loss, the level of microglial activation, and the capacity for functional recovery was compared between COX-1-deficient mice or COX-2-deficient mice, and their matching wild-type controls. The deficiency of COX-2 resulted in a minor (6%), although statistically significant, increase in the sparing of cortical tissue following TBI. The deficiency of COX-1 resulted in no detectable effect on cortical tissue loss following TBI. As determined by 3[H]-PK11195 autoradiography, TBI produced a similar increase in microglial activation in multiple brain regions of both COX-1 wild-type and COX-1-deficient mice. In COX-2 wild-type and COX-2-deficient mice, TBI increased 3[H]-PK11195 binding in all brain regions that were analyzed. Following injury, 3[H]-PK11195 binding in the dentate gyrus and CA1 region of the hippocampus was greater in COX-2-deficient mice, as compared to COX-2 wild-type mice. Cognitive assessment was performed in the wild-type, COX-1-deficient and COX-2-deficient mice following 4 days of recovery from TBI. There was no significant cognitive effect that resulted from the deficiency of either COX-1 or COX-2, as determined by acquisition and spatial memory retention testing in a Morris water maze. These findings suggest that the deficiency of neither COX-1 nor COX-2 is sufficient to alter cognitive outcomes following TBI in mice.
Comments on Social Development Research in EBD

Comments on research are provided with reference to current controversies in the education of students with emotional and behavioral disorders, including postmodernism, prevention, full inclusion, socialization by peers, and the future of research on social development.
Development and Characterization of Biodegradable/Edible Wheat Protein Films

Biodegradable and edible films were prepared from three types of wheat flours: commercial bread, hard red winter, and soft white. Films were produced at two pH values (4 and 11) and tested for oxygen permeability as related to temperature. Films were also produced with a cross-linked agent and tested for tensile strengths. Oxygen permeability was 5.9 X 10 -20 to 18.5 x 10 -20 m 3 O 2 m m -2 s -1 Pa -1 similar to values for commercial nylon. The oxygen permeability activation energy varied from 9.1 to 14.5 kcal mol -1 , depending on type of flour and pH did not affect oxygen permeability. Presence of the cross-linking agent increased the strength of films and elongation at break ranged from 490% to 640%, while tensile stress at break ranged from 25.8 X 10 -3 kg m -2 to 44.1 x 10 -3 kg m -2 , lower than commercial nylon.
Concentrations of PM(2.5) mass and components in residential and non-residential indoor microenvironments: the Sources and Composition of Particulate Exposures study.

Although short in duration, air pollutant exposures occurring in non-residential microenvironments (MEs), including restaurants, vehicles and commercial locations, can represent a large fraction of total personal exposures. For the Sources and Composition of Particulate Exposures study, a novel compact sampling system was developed, facilitating simultaneous measurement of highly speciated PM2.5 mass in a range of commercial and residential locations. This sampler also included 1-min measurements of PM2.5 mass and ultrafine particle (UFP) counts. Sampling was conducted in a number of MEs (retail stores, restaurants and vehicles) throughout Atlanta. Chemically resolved particulate measurements in these locations are of interest for both exposure scientists and epidemiologists but have typically not been conducted because of logistical constraints associated with sampling these trace constituents. We present measurements from a non-random sample of locations that are limited in their generalizability but provide several promising hypothesis-generating results. PM2.5 mass concentrations greater than 100 μg/m3, and UFPs>105 particles /cm3 were measured during several events in the restaurant and vehicle. Somewhat unexpectedly, the grocery store ME, along with the restaurant and vehicle, also had the highest levels of elemental carbon (EC), organic carbon (OC) and most elements. In-vehicle concentrations of soil-related elements (Al, Ca, Fe, K and Ti) and auto-related elements (EC, OC, Zn and Cu) were higher than those measured at a central ambient site. The lowest concentrations for most pollutants were found in the hospital and retail locations. It is questionable whether periodic, high PM concentrations in the grocery store and restaurant pose health risks for customers; however, individuals working in these locations may be exposed to levels of concern.
ULTRAFAST INVESTIGATION OF VIBRATIONAL RELAXATION IN THE S1 ELECTRONIC STATE OF HITC

The condensed phase relaxation dynamics of electronically excited 1,1‘,3,3,3‘,3‘-hexamethylindotricarbocyanine iodide HITC (a cyanine dye) has been examined by transient bleach/stimulated emission experiments. These measurements were performed using tunable pump and probe laser pulses with ∼200 fs time resolution. The dynamics observed was assigned to vibrational relaxation in the S1 state of HITC. Solvation effects make a negligible contribution to these experiments because the dipole moment of HITC only changes by a small amount when the S1 ← S0 transition is excited. Experiments performed with variable wavelength pump and probe pulses show that vibrational relaxation is faster at high energies in the S1 state. At low energies in the S1 state the vibrational relaxation times depend on the solvent. The measured relaxation times at low energies are1.7 ps in acetonitrile, 3.2 ps in dimethyl sulfoxide, 2.4 ps in methanol, 3.5 ps in ethanol, 7.1 ps in 1-butanol, and 6.4 ps in ethylene glycol. These results s...
Physiological relationship between oil tolerance and flooding tolerance in marsh plants

Abstract Coastal salt marshes are highly susceptible to accidental oil spills. Oil can cover root tissues, inhibiting gas exchange and increasing root oxygen stress. This is similar to flooding; both conditions reduce the availability of oxygen to a plant. Therefore, it was hypothesized that tolerance to both flooding and oil are related in plants, as both impede gas exchange between roots and their environment. We investigated effects of oil on respiration and photosynthesis in nine marsh species ranging from flooding sensitive (hypothesized oil sensitive) to flooding tolerant (hypothesized oil tolerant). Plants were subjected to 6 L m −2 light motor oil in greenhouse experiments for six weeks. Oil exposure caused root oxygen deficiency in all but the most flooding tolerant species. Alcohol dehydrogenase activities increased in roots of flooding sensitive species and moderately flooding tolerant plants under oil exposure, indicating oxygen stress. In contrast, flooding tolerant plants showed no sign of oxygen deficiency under oil treatment. Additionally, decreases in photosynthetic rates were measured in some species following oil exposure. Photosynthesis was reduced by non-stomatal limitations, suggesting toxic effects of oil. It was concluded that tolerance to oil relates to flooding tolerance when measured in terms of biochemical enzyme activity. Root alcohol dehydrogenase activity was a sensitive indicator of oil susceptibility, whereas leaf-level photosynthesis was less sensitive to oil. Relating flooding and oil tolerance based on physiological measures could help future efforts to protect marsh plants prior to an oil spill as well as manage coastal marshes following an oil spill.
Hadronic ZZ, W-W+, and W+/-Z production with QCD corrections and leptonic decays.

The processes [ital pp][sup ([minus])][r arrow][ital V][sub 1][ital V][sub 2]+[ital X][r arrow][ital l][sub 1][ital [bar l]][sub 1][ital l][sub 2][ital [bar l]][sub 2]+[ital X], where [ital V][sub [ital i]]=[ital W][sup [plus minus]] or [ital Z] and [ital l][sub [ital i]] denotes a lepton, are calculated to [ital O]([alpha][sub [ital s]]). Total and differential cross sections, with acceptance cuts imposed on the final state leptons, are given for the Fermilab Tevatron and CERN LHC center of mass energies. Inclusive and exclusive 0-jet and 1-jet cross sections are given. The transverse momenta spectra of the leptons are significantly enhanced at high [ital p][sub [ital T]] by the QCD radiative corrections, especially at the LHC energy. Invariant mass and angular distributions are scaled up in magnitude by the QCD radiative corrections, but are little changed in shape.
Seasonal performance of several clovers grown as annuals in Southern Alabama

(...) Seven clovers were evaluated at four locations in southern Alabama to determine seasonal yield distribution and dependability. Soils were Malbis fine sandy loam (fine-loamy, siliceous, thermic Plinthic Palendult), Lucedale sandy clay loam (fine-silty, carbonatic, thermic Rendollic Eutrochrept), Sumter clay (fine-silty, carbonatic, thermic Rendollic Eutrochrept), and Cahaba fine sandy loam (fine-loamy, siliceous, thermic Typic Hapludult). The experimental design was a randomized complete block with four replications at each location. Experiments were seeded in autumn at each location each year from 1985 through 1987 (...)
Theory of electronic, vibrational, and superconducting properties of fcc silicon

We present a theoretical calculation of the properties of the fcc, high-pressure structural phase of Si. The electronic and phonon properties have been studied and we predict the system to be a free-electron-like metal with a very stiff lattice. In addition, we estimate the superconducting transition temperature to be approximately 2 K based on calculations of the electron-phonon coupling constant \ensuremath{\lambda}. Comparisons are made with the results of previous calculations for Al.
Situation and person‐centered approaches to promoting leadership behavior in low performance self‐esteem women

In each of 84 mixed-sex dyads, a low performance self-esteem woman was appointed to the role of leader in the dyad's decision-making task. Situation and person-centered approaches to promoting the woman's leadership behavior were tested by providing information regarding the women's task-relevant competence to one, both, or neither dyad member prior to the day of the task. Decision outcome scores and ratings of audio tapes served as measures of dyadic influence. When women were given the leadership information beforehand, they were more leaderlike and their partners were more acquiescent; informing men beforehand had little effect on the interaction, especially when the women had not been informed. Subjects' postdiscussion self-ratings, partner ratings, and perceived partner ratings suggested subtle forms of male defensiveness and more obvious forms of female discomfort with the leader role.
Transformations satisfying homogeneous identities

This note represents the first step in an investigation of linear transformations which satisfy homogeneous identities on commutative algebras [2]. The ultimate goal is to show that such a transformation is formally related in some way, perhaps involving power series, to a derivation or an endomorphism of the algebra. Our purpose here is to describe those transformations which satisfy a homogeneous identity of degree 2 not involving iterates. The next step would be to allow iterates and show that the identity forces the transformation to be something like a Baxter or a Reynolds operator (see [ 1,3]). Examples of the kind of identity we shall consider can be obtained by taking linear combinations of the identity map and either a derivation or an endomorphism. Specifically, if D is a derivation, then T= cl+ D satisfies cx~-XT(~)yT(x) + T(-q), and for E an endomorphism T=Z+cEsatisfies (c+l)q-XT(~)-yT(x)+T(x) T(y)cT(xy) = 0. Throughout this paper, A will denote a commutative algebra with 1 over a field F, and TE Hom,(A, A) {O} so that for some fixed c, E F, not all zero, and all X, y E A,
Linear dimensional accuracy of epoxy resin and stone dies

1 Ideally, d ie material for fixed restorations should be dimensionally accurate, durable, consistent, and of reasonable cost. It should also be simple to manipulate, compatible with currently used impression materials, able to reproduce fine details, and have a stable shelf life. Toreskog et al.’ tested eight different classes of die materials and concluded that no one material was superior. Newman and Williams’ also concluded that “an ideal universal die material is yet to be produced.” There have been several reports on epoxy resin dies.‘.’ Although they have been shown to have superior compressive strength and abrasion resistance,3 their dimensional accuracy has been poor due to shrinkage.” Stone dies are still considered the standard for most fixed partial denture construction. The relative accuracy of stone dies is well documented in clinical and bench studies.’ However, lack of durability during the increased handling that is inherent in extensive reconstructive dentistry often creates problems in the laboratory. The newer formulations and techniques for epoxy resin are said to produce dies that are comparable to stone dies in dimensional accuracy.” If a resin die is as dimensionally accurate as a stone die, its use would be justified because of superior resistance to fracture and abrasion. The purpose of this study was to compare the linear dimensional accuracy of epoxy resin dies to stone dies.
Stereoregulated synthesis of β-lactams from schiff bases derived from threonine esters

Abstract A variety of optically active 3-substituted-2-azetidinones has been prepared by the annelation of Schiff bases derived from cinnamaldehyde and D-threonine esters and their absolute configuration determined. When the β-hydroxyl group of threonine is unprotected, both enantiomeric forms of N-unsubstituted 3,4-disubstituted-2-azetidinones can be prepared from a single β-lactam-forming reaction. On the other hand, by converting the hydroxyl group of D-threonine to a bulky group (e.g., triphenylsilyl ether), very high diastereoselectivity can be induced. The multiple functional groups on these β-lactams can be easily modified to generate useful synthons for optically active sugars, alkaloids, and monocyclic and bicyclic β-lactam antibiotics.
Nonlinear Analysis of a Family of LC Tuned Inverters

four widely used self-oscillating dc-to-square-wave parallel inverters which employ an inductor-capacitor tuned network to determine the oscillation frequency are reduced to a common equivalent RLC network. The techniques of singular-point analysis and state-plane interpretations are employed to describe the steady-state and transient ient behavior of these circuits and to elucidate the three possible modes of operation: quasi-harmonic, relaxation, and discontinuous. Design guidelines are provided through a study of the influence of circuit parameter variations on the characteristics of oscillation and on frequency stability. Several examples are provided to illustrate the usefulness of this analysis when studying such problems as transistor emitter-to-base junction breakdown during oscillations and the design of starting circuits to insure self-excited oscillations in these inverters.
Relationship between intracellular ice formation in oocytes of the mouse and Xenopus and the physical state of the external medium--a revisit.

Abstract We have previously reported that intracellular ice formation (IIF) in mouse oocytes suspended in glycerol/PBS solutions or ethylene glycol (EG)/PBS solutions and rapidly cooled to −50 °C or below occurs at temperatures where a critical fraction of the external water remains unfrozen [P. Mazur, S. Seki, I.L. Pinn, F.W. Kleinhans, K. Edashige, Extra- and intracellular ice formation in mouse oocytes, Cryobiology 51 (2005) 29–53; P. Mazur, I.L. Pinn, F.W. Kleinhans, The temperature of intracellular ice formation in mouse oocytes vs. the unfrozen fraction at that temperature, Cryobiology 54 (2007) 223–233]. For mouse oocytes in PBS or glycerol/PBS that fraction is 0.06; for oocytes in EG that fraction was calculated to be 0.13, more than double. The fractions unfrozen are computed from ternary phase diagrams. In the previous publication, we used the EG data of Woods et al. [E.J. Woods, M.A.J. Zieger, D.Y. Gao, J.K. Critser, Equations for obtaining melting points for the ternary system ethylene glycol/sodium chloride/Water and their application to cryopreservation., Cryobiology 38 (1999) 403–407]. Since then, we have determined that ternary phase diagrams for EG/NaCl/water synthesized by summing binary phase data for EG/water NaCl/water gives substantially different curves, which seem more realistic [F.W. Kleinhans, P. Mazur, Comparison of actual vs. synthesized ternary phase diagrams for solutes of cryobiological interest, Cryobiology 54 (2007) 212–222]. Unfrozen fractions at the temperatures of IIF computed from these synthesized phase diagrams are about half of those calculated from the Woods et al. data, and are in close agreement with the computations for glycerol; i.e., IIF occurs when about 92–94% of the external water is frozen. A parallel paper was published by Guenther et al. [J.F. Guenther, S. Seki, F.W. Kleinhans, K. Edashige, D.M. Roberts, P. Mazur, Extra-and intra-cellular ice formation in Stage I and II Xenopus laevis oocytes, Cryobiology 52 (2006) 401–416] on IIF in oocytes of the frog Xenopus . It too examined whether the temperatures of IIF were related to the unfrozen fractions at those temperatures. It also used the Woods et al. ternary phase data to calculate the unfrozen fractions for EG solutions. As reported here, once again the values of these unfrozen fractions are substantially different from those calculated using synthesized phase diagrams. With the latter, the unfrozen fractions at IIF become very similar for EG and glycerol.
Assessment of the impacts of radio frequency interference on SMAP radar and radiometer measurements

The NASA Soil Moisture Active and Passive (SMAP) mission will measure soil moisture with a combination of L-band radar and radiometer measurements. We present an assessment of the expected impact of radio frequency interference (RFI) on SMAP performance, incorporating projections based on recent data collected by the Aquarius and SMOS missions. We discuss the impacts of RFI on the radar and radiometer separately given the differences in (1) RFI environment between the shared radar band and the protected radiometer band, (2) mitigation techniques available for the different measurements, and (3) existing data sources available that can inform predictions for SMAP.
The psychometric properties of the behavioral inhibition scale in a college-aged sample

The Behavior Inhibition Scale (BIS) (Gest, 1997; Muris, Merckelbach, Wessel, & vand de Ven, 1999) has shown adequate psychometric properties in previous research using samples of children and adolescents. The purpose of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the BIS in a college-aged sample of 112 females and 72 males. The results indicated that the BIS showed good internal consistency, was unitary and the scores were normally distributed. As predicted, BIS scores were significantly correlated with extraversion, neuroticism, self-reported depressive symptomatology and subjective well being. Contrary to previous findings, the BIS scores were not significantly correlated with self-reported anxiety symptomatology, and were more closely aligned with extraversion than neuroticism.