cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Immunohistochemical identification of neurons in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus that project to the medulla or to the spinal cord in the rat

A method that allows the concurrent localization of an antigen and a retrogradely transported fluorescent dye (true blue) was used to identify, immunohistochemically, cells in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVH) that project to autonomic centers in the brainstem or in the spinal cord of the adult albino rat. After placing injections of true blue in the dorsal vagal complex or in upper thoracic segments of the spinal cord, series of evenly spaced sections through the PVH were stained with antisera directed against oxytocin, vasopressin, somatostatin, methionine-enkephalin, or leucine-encephalin. The results indicate that both oxytocin- and vasopressin-stained cells in the PVH project to the spinal cord and (or) to the dorsal vagal complex, although about three times as many oxytocinstained cells were doubly labeled after injections centered in either terminal field. The oxytocin- and vasopressin-stained cells that give rise to these long descending projections were found primarily in caudal parts of the parvo cellular division of the PVH, where immunoreactive cells were shown to be significantly smaller than oxytocin- and vasopressin-stained cells in parts of the nucleus that project to the posterior pituitary. Small populations of cells in the PVH that cross-react with antisera against somatostatin, leucine-enkephalin, or methionine-enkephalin were also shown to project directly to the region of the dorsal vagal complex and to the spinal cord, and to have a unique distribution within the PVH. Collectively, the total number of doubly labeled cells that were identified in these experiments accounts for only about one-fourth of the total number of PVH neurons with long descending projections, thus suggesting that additional neuroactive substances are contained within these pathways.
Content-Based Instruction for Foreign Language Classrooms

Content-based instruction (CBI) is a communicative approach to language teaching that is growing in popularity in both government and academic foreign language cides. The authors define CBI as a curriculum that 1) is based on subject matter, 2) utilizes authentic materials, 3) promotes the learning of new information, and 4) considers specific students' needs. Examples of CBI programs are provided. The Russian and Spanish CBI programs at the Foreign Service Institute are discussed in depth. Readers are requested to share their CBI experience with the authors.
The query language Vizla

We define the query language Vizla, in which answers to queries are built up by pointing to representations of sets and functions in a conceptual model of the data base of an application, and to iconic identifiers of computational operators or control constructs. At its present stage of development the primary use of Vizla is in the validation of conceptual models of information systems, but it is to be developed into a user interface to SF, a prototyping language for information and control systems. Moreover, it can be regarded as a visual programming language in its own right. As such it is based on abstract data types. >
Sex as a Moderator of the Relationships Between Predictor Variables and Counterproductive Work Behavior

The purpose of the current study was to examine sex as a moderator of the relationships between four predictor variables—job satisfaction, organizational commitment, interpersonal conflict, and organizational constraints—and counterproductive work behaviors (CWBs). Using a two-wave design (time lag = 6 months), we collected self-report data from workers employed in a variety of different settings (N = 220). We found relatively stronger predictor–CWB relationships for men than for women in five of the eight interactions that we tested. These moderator effects were partially explained by sex differences in between-person variability of CWBs (i.e., relatively lower variability was observed for women than for men) as well as sex differences in the reliability with which CWBs were assessed (i.e., relatively lower reliability was observed for women than for men). In order to reduce the incidence of CWBs, it is important to gain a better understanding of predictor–CWB relationships. The current study found that predictor variables that are typically examined by CWB researchers might be more useful for predicting CWBs among men than among women. Although several studies have examined the predictors of CWBs, the current study is among the first to examine sex as a moderator of predictor–CWB relationships.
Measurement of the Earth's Gravity Gradient with an Atom Interferometer-Based Gravity Gradiometer

We report the demonstration of an atom interferometer-based gravity gradiometer. The gradiometer uses stimulated two-photon Raman transitions to measure the relative accelerations of two ensembles of laser cooled atoms. We have used this instrument to measure the gradient of the Earth's gravitational field.
Hadrian and the Frontiers of Form

Abstract Architecture often stands in its own sculptural right, but how much richer we are to explore its genesis The emperor Hadrian, ruling a kingdom much like our United States in its cultural diversity and strength of influence, realized a design of marvelous paradox in his Villa at Tivoli. This paper seeks to knit together the formal elements of the villa with the human sensibilities of Hadrian by presenting notes from several seminal works, including Memoires d'Hadrien by Marguerite Yourcenar (Librarie Plon, 1958), and Hadrian's Villa and Its Legacy by William L. MacDonald and John A. Pinto (Yale University Press, 1995).
Preferred temperatures of desert honey ants (hymenoptera: formicidae)

Abstract 1. 1.Preferred temperature ranges were determined for workers of 5 species of Myrmecocystus in a temperature gradient on wet sand. 2. 2.Workers of the diurnally foraging species, M. mendax Wheeler, M romainei Cole, M. depilis Forel, and M. mimicus Wheeler, were distributed between 7 and 45°C, and workers of one nocturnal species, M. mexicanus Wesmael, were distributed between 5 and 35°C. 3. 3.Mean preferred temperatures of the 5 species increased as follows: mexicanus 4. 4.Preferred temperatures of M. romainei and M. mexicanus were higher in the summer than in the fall. 5. 5.After 2 h in the gradient on dry sand, workers of M. romainei were distributed similarly to those on wet sand, but after 8 h on dry sand, most workers were below 12°C where the air was saturated.
Dasatinib Resistance in Patients with Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia: Identification of a Novel bcr-abl Kinase Domain Mutation

Abstract Background Dasatinib is a multi–tyrosine kinase–specific inhibitor with potent inhibitory activity against bcrabl kinase. It has been increasingly used in the treatment of imatinib-resistant chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) and Philadelphia chromosome–positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia. However, despite its excellent activity, a proportion of patients present evidence of dasatinib resistance. Patients and Methods To assess the potential mechanisms of resistance, we have analyzed the bcr-abl kinase domain from 22 patients with CML who demonstrated clinical evidence of dasatinib failure. Results Mutations were present in 16 of 22 patients, and the majority were mapped to the adenosine triphosphate binding pocket. Of these, 7 had panresistant T315I, and 4 had F317L, with 1 F317I mutation. In addition, 3 of 16 patients evaluated had a V299L mutation. All of these mutations were previously reported in association with dasatinib resistance. We also observed that 1 of 7 patients in the chronic phase and 5 of 15 patients in the advanced phase had > 1 mutation in separate clones, as well as compound mutations (1 mRNA had ≥ 2 mutant codons). Interestingly, 4 of 15 patients with documented mutations were found to have a novel V304D mutation, which is located outside of the dasatinib binding site in the β 4-5 loop structure. Conclusion It appears that bcr-abl mutations in advanced-phase CML are more common but occur at lower frequencies in patients with chronic-phase disease (93% vs. 62%, respectively). Our results suggest that selection for T315I and F317L mutations occurs frequently in dasatinib-resistant patients, and both mutations were previously shown to affect dasatinib binding. Two additional mutations (V299L and V304D) have been identified with incidences that exceed random occurrence. The significance of these mutations is being evaluated.
Interstitial cystitis: An overview and discussion of treatment options

Abstract Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic inflammation of the bladder largely defined by its symptoms of urgency, frequency, and pelvic pain. These symptoms can often be severe and incapacitating, leading patients to seek care from multiple providers. The etiology of IC is unknown, and as a diagnosis of exclusion, other entities such as infection, bladder tumors, or bladder instability must be ruled out. Unfortunately, once the diagnosis of IC is made, there still may be considerable delay in relief from symptoms because no single treatment is effective for all patients. Treatment strategies include dietary and behavior modifications, systemic medications, local installation of medication into the bladder, and both cystoscopic and open surgical techniques. It is especially important that patients have an understanding of their disease and that they participate in their treatment to some extent. We suggest starting with conservative therapy, proceeding to more invasive methods as necessary.
Random walk model for viscoelastic response of glassy polymers

Both theory and experiment suggest that reptation plays a minor role in the viscoelastic response of polymers in the glassy state. The time for reptation is so long that the entanglement network can be considered to be permanent, at least for deformation far below Tg. We have developed a network picture of a glassy polymer in which mechanical stresses and strains in the solid are represented in terms of forces and displacement in a harmonic lattice with nearest-neighbor interactions. The intermittent character of segmental motion in the glassy state is modelled in terms of the behavior of a two-state continuous time random walk, one state of which refers to mobilized segments and the second to immobilized segments. The pausing time density for segments in an immobilized state is taken to be negative exponential, and for mobile segments it has an asymptotic stable law form ψ(t)∼t-(α+1), where 0<α<1. We show that the quantity needed to calculate the mechanical response of the network is a fourth-order correlation function which is readily found for a harmonic model. A comparison of the theoretical prediction will be made to experimental data on stress relaxation and recovery of glassy polycarbonate.
Room temperature continuous wave operation of red vertical cavity surface emitting laser diodes

The first room temperature (23°C) continuous wave visible vertical cavity surface emitting laser diodes are reported. Annular contact devices with a 5 μm optical aperture in a 15 μm diameter mesa emit at 670.4 nm with a threshold current of 5 mA at 2.4V. Devices with 20–60 μm diameter mesas operate continuous wave below −13°C.
Branding Conspicuous Goods: An Analysis of the Effects of Social Influence and Competition

Branding decisions are critical for the success of new products. Prior research on branding and brand extension has primarily focused on how branding influences consumers' perceptions of product quality. However, consumers of conspicuous goods care not only about product quality but also about the profile of its users. For example, high-end consumers prefer an exclusive brand. On the other hand, low-end consumers may find a brand more attractive if high-end consumers use it. In this paper, we analyze how social effects and market structure can influence the branding of conspicuous goods. Consistent with intuition, our theoretical analysis shows that a monopolist would prefer not to use umbrella branding when consumers' desire for uniqueness is high. By contrast, in a competitive market, umbrella branding is more profitable than individual branding when consumers have a high level of desire for uniqueness. We also identify conditions in which it is optimal for marketers of conspicuous goods to adopt either an individual branding strategy or asymmetric branding strategies. Furthermore, competing firms may offer umbrella branding even when both firms may be better off if they could commit to using individual branding. Finally, we extend the model to consider a market where consumers' product preference is not related to social status. Again, if consumers are sufficiently snobbish, competing firms earn more profits by adopting an umbrella branding strategy instead of an individual branding strategy. This paper was accepted by J. Miguel Villas-Boas, marketing.
Building systematic heterogeneity into work attitudes and behavior measures

Abstract A discussion and an investigation of the benefits of creating correspondence between general attitude and multifaceted behavior measures as an antidote to narrowing attitude assessments to match the specificity of narrow, isolated behaviors are conducted. We investigate these issues specifically in the realm of job satisfaction and employee adaptation and withdrawal. Results from several samples are presented that show the advantages of building systematic heterogeneity into both attitude and behavioral measures as recommended by attitude theorists. Implications for research in the areas of social and work attitudes are discussed.
Nature of Ptn/TiO2(110) Interface under Water-Gas Shift Reaction Conditions: A Constrained ab Initio Thermodynamics Study

The electronic structure of small Ptn (n = 1–8) clusters supported on the stoichiometric and partially reduced rutile TiO2(110) surface have been investigated using density functional theory. Pt atoms prefer to form a close-packed structure with (111) facet near an oxygen vacancy of the TiO2 support and a less dense structure with (100) facet away from oxygen vacant sites. The main focus of this study is on identifying a realistic catalyst model for the Pt/TiO2 interface under water-gas shift (WGS) reaction conditions. Constrained ab initio thermodynamic simulations on the stability of oxygen vacancies and formation of adsorbed gas phase molecules such as oxygen, CO, and hydrogen at the metal/oxide interface reveal that under WGS reaction conditions the formation of surface oxygen vacancies are thermodynamically favorable, platinum oxide species (PtOx) can easily be reduced and should not be present, CO adsorbs only weakly on interfacial Pt atoms, and CO poisoning of these sites should be less important. ...
Application of caffeine, 1,3,7-trimethylxanthine, to control Escherichia coli O157:H7

The objective of this research was to determine the effectiveness of caffeine on inactivation of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in brain heart infusion (BHI) broth. Overnight samples of five E. coli O157:H7 strains of (E0019, F4546, H1730, 944 and Cider) were used in this study. These strains were individually inoculated at an initial inoculum level of 2 log CFU/ml into BHI broth containing caffeine at different concentrations (0.00%, 0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75%, 1.00%, 1.25%, 1.50%, 1.75%, and 2.00%). Samples were then incubated at 37 °C for 24 h. Bacterial growth was monitored at different time intervals by measuring turbidity at 610 nm using a spectrophotometer. Results revealed that the addition of caffeine inhibited the growth of E. coli O157:H7. Significant growth inhibition was observed with concentration levels of 0.50% and higher. These results indicate that caffeine has potential as an antimicrobial agent for the treatment of E. coli O157:H7 infection and should be investigated further as a food additive to increase biosafety of consumable food products.
Ependymomas produced after intracerebral inoculation of SV40 into new-born hamsters.

EDDY et al.1 have reported that extracts of rhesus monkey kidney cell cultures produce subcutaneous sarcomas when inoculated into new-born hamsters. Sweet and Hilleman2 have shown that a simian virus (SV40) is present in most rhesus monkey kidney cell cultures although it causes no cytopathogenic effect in them. Cytopathogenic effect is produced, however, in cell cultures of kidneys from African green monkeys. Later, Eddy et al.3 found that similar subcutaneous sarcomas in hamsters can be induced after inoculation of preparations containing SV40.
Results from hybrid stochastic simulations of gauge theories with fermions

Abstract We review the status of applications of the hybrid stochastic algorithm of S. Duane to lattice gauge theory with fermion feedback. We illustrate optimization of the algorithm and its application to calculate the chiral condendate in SU(2) and SU(3) gauge theories with four species of almost massless quarks. Studies of the thermodynamics of QCD indicate that fermion feedback eliminates the first order deconfining transitition of the pure gluon theory when the quark mass is small (less than 1.3 Λ ms , roughly).
The trends in health care delivery for women: challenges for medical education.

The author discusses four key trends in the U.S. health care delivery system that affect how women's health care is delivered: the restructuring of primary care, particularly in the context of managed care organizations; initiatives in quality assessment; changes in patterns of health insurance coverage; and threats to the health care safety net. She concludes that medical educators need to link training to these changes in the health care delivery system to prepare physicians to work effectively for women's health in the changing system and to help bring about appropriate, needed transformations of the institutions in which women's health care is provided. Specific recommendations for medical educators are given after the discussion of each trend.
Structural performance of ceramics in a high-fluence fusion environment

The ceramics MgAl/sub 2/O/sub 4/, Al/sub 2/O/sub 3/ (single crystal), Si/sub 3/N/sub 4/, and a SiC/graphite laminate were irradiated to approx. 2 x 10/sup 26/ n/m/sup 2/ (E > 0.1 MeV) at 680 and 815K. Spinel exhibited near-zero dimensional change, while Al/sub 2/O/sub 3/ and Si/sub 3/N/sub 4/ swelled approx. 3 vol % and 1 vol % respectively. Strength of MgAl/sub 2/O/sub 4/ was increased, while strength of Al/sub 2/O/sub 3/ and Si/sub 3/N/sub 4/ were not greatly altered. The SiC/graphite composite, tested only at 680K, suffered almost complete delamination as a result of swelling of the SiC and densification of the graphite. These results are discussed in terms of microstructural alterations and related to various fusion applications.
ON THE EXPLICIT FORMULA IN THE THEORY OF PRIME NUMBERS

In [Complements to Li's criterion for the Riemann hypothesis, J. Number Theory77 (1999) 274–287] Bombieri and Lagarias observed the remarkable identity [1 - (1 - 1/s)n] + [1 - (1 - 1/(1 - s))n] = [1 - (1 - 1/s)n]⋅[1 - (1 - 1/(1 - s))n], and pointed out that the positivity in Li's criterion [The positivity of a sequence of numbers and the Riemann hypothesis, J. Number Theory65 (1997) 325–333] has the same meaning as in Weil's criterion [Sur les "formules explicites" de la theorie des nombres premiers, in Oeuvres Scientifiques, Collected Paper, Vol. II (Springer-Verlag, New York, 1979), pp. 48–61]. Let λn = ∑ρ[1 - (1 - 1/ρ)n] for n = 1, 2, …, where ρ runs over the complex zeros of the Riemann zeta function ζ(s). In this note, a certain truncation of λn is expressed as Weil's explicit formula [Sur les "formules explicites" de la theorie des nombres premiers, in Oeuvres Scientifiques, Collected Paper, Vol. II (Springer-Verlag, New York, 1979), pp. 48–61] for each positive integer n. By using the Bombieri and Lagarias' identity, we prove that the positivity of these truncations implies the Riemann hypothesis. If these truncations have suitable upper bounds, we prove that all nontrivial zeros of the Riemann zeta function lie on the critical line.
Mitochondrial inhibitor as a new class of insulin sensitizer

Insulin resistance is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a drug target in the improvement of insulin sensitivity. Several insulin-sensitizing medicines are able to activate AMPK through inhibition of mitochondrial functions. These drugs, such as metformin and STZ, inhibit ATP synthesis in mitochondria to raise AMP/ATP ratio in the process of AMPK activation. However, chemicals that activate AMPK directly or by activating its upstream kinases have not been approved for treatment of type 2 diabetes in humans. In an early study, we reported that berberine inhibited oxygen consumption in mitochondria, and increased AMP/ATP ratio in cells. The observation suggests an indirect mechanism for AMPK activation by berberine. Berberine stimulates glycolysis for ATP production that offsets the cell toxicity after mitochondria inhibition. The study suggests that mitochondrial inhibition is an approach for AMPK activation. In this review article, literature is critically reviewed to interpret the role of mitochondria function in the mechanism of insulin resistance, which supports that mitochondria inhibitors represent a new class of AMPK activator. The inhibitors are promising candidates for insulin sensitizers. This review provides a guideline in search for small molecule AMPK activators in the drug discovery for type 2 diabetes.
Case report: benign gastric ulcer erosion leading to a gastropericardial fistula in a patient with no known risk factors

A 53-year-old homeless male presented to the emergency department with sudden onset chest pain and was found to have a large pneumopericardium on chest X-ray. The patient had no history of surgery, hiatal hernia, or ulcer disease. A contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan demonstrated the pneumopericardium and raised concern for possible gastropericardial fistula from a benign gastric ulcer. An esophagogastroduodenoscopy confirmed the fistula, as did surgery, and intraoperatively vegetable particular matter was removed from the anatomic space continuous with the pericardium.
Constraint-based automation of multimedia presentation assembly

In this paper, we present a methodology for automated construction of multimedia presentations. Semantic coherency of a multimedia presentation is expressed in terms of presentation inclusion and exclusion constraints. When a user specifies a set of segments for a presentation, the multimedia database system adds segments into and/or deletes segments from the set in order to satisfy the inclusion and exclusion constraints. We discuss the consistency and the satisfiability of inclusion and exclusion constraints when exclusion is allowed. Users express a presentation query by (a) pointing and clicking to an initial set of desired multimedia segments to be included into the presentation, and (b) specifying an upper bound on the time length of the presentation. The multimedia database system then finds the set of segments satisfying the inclusion-exclusion constraints and the time bound. Using priorities for segments and inclusion constraints, we give two algorithms for automated presentation assembly and discuss their complexity. To automate the assembly of a presentation with concurrent presentation streams, we introduce presentation organization constraints that are incorporated into the multimedia data model, independent of any presentation. We define four types of presentation organization constraints that, together with an underlying database ordering, allow us to obtain a unique presentation graph for a given set of multimedia segments. We briefly summarize a prototype system that fully incorporates the algorithms for the segment selection problem.
The kinase IKKα inhibits activation of the transcription factor NF-κB by phosphorylating the regulatory molecule TAX1BP1

In response to stimulation with proinflammatory cytokines, the deubiquitinase A20 inducibly interacts with the regulatory molecules TAX1BP1, Itch and RNF11 to form the A20 ubiquitin-editing complex. However, the molecular signal that coordinates the assembly of this complex has remained elusive. Here we demonstrate that TAX1BP1 was inducibly phosphorylated on Ser593 and Ser624 in response to proinflammatory stimuli. The kinase IKKα, but not IKKβ, was required for phosphorylation of TAX1BP1 and directly phosphorylated TAX1BP1 in response to stimulation with tumor necrosis factor (TNF) or interleukin 1 (IL-1). TAX1BP1 phosphorylation was pivotal for cytokine-dependent interactions among TAX1BP1, A20, Itch and RNF11 and downregulation of signaling by the transcription factor NF-κB. IKKα therefore serves a key role in the negative feedback of NF-κB canonical signaling by orchestrating assembly of the A20 ubiquitin-editing complex to limit inflammatory gene activation.
A Formal Classification of Bursting Mechanisms in Excitable Systems

Burst activity is characterized by slowly alternating phases of near steady state behavior and trains of rapid spike-like oscillations; examples of bursting patterns are shown in Fig. 2. These two phases have been called the silent and active phases respectively [2], In the case of electrical activity of biological membrane systems the slow time scale of bursting is on the order of tens of seconds while the spikes have millisecond time scales. In our study of several specific models for burst activity we have identified a number of different mechanisms for burst generation (which are characteristic of classes of models). We will describe qualitatively some of these mechanisms by way of the schematic diagrams in Fig. 1.
Insulin receptor substrate-1 deficiency promotes apoptosis in the putative intestinal crypt stem cell region, limits Apcmin/+ tumors, and regulates Sox9.

Reduced apoptosis of crypt stem/progenitor cells and elevated insulin and IGFs are linked to colon cancer risk. Insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) mediates the actions of insulin, IGF-I, and IGF-II, but the role of endogenous IRS-1 in crypt apoptosis and cancer is undefined. Using IRS-1−/−, IRS-1+/−, and IRS-1+/+ mice, we tested the hypothesis that reduced IRS-1 expression increases apoptosis of intestinal crypt cells and protects against Apcmin/+ (Min)/β-catenin-driven intestinal tumors. Expression of Sox9, a transcriptional target of Tcf/β-catenin and putative biomarker of crypt stem cells, was assessed in intestine of different IRS-1 genotypes and cell lines. Irradiation-induced apoptosis was significantly increased in the crypts and crypt stem cell region of IRS-1-deficient mice. Tumor load was significantly reduced by 31.2 ± 14.6% in IRS-1+/−/Min and by 64.1 ± 7.6% in IRS-1−/−/Min mice, with more prominent reductions in tumor number than size. Compared with IRS-1+/+/Min, IRS-1−/−/Min mice had fewer Sox9-positive cells in intestinal crypts and reduced Sox9 mRNA in intestine. IRS-1 overexpression increased Sox9 expression in an intestinal epithelial cell line. We conclude that even small reductions in endogenous IRS-1 increase apoptosis of crypt stem or progenitor cells, protect against β-catenin-driven intestinal tumors, and reduce Sox9, a Tcf/β-catenin target and putative stem/progenitor cell biomarker.
Wavelength-dependent photolysis of n-hexanal and n-heptanal in the 280-330-nm region

We have studied the photolysis of n-hexanal (CH3(CH2)4CHO) and n-heptanal (CH3(CH2)5CHO) at 5-nm intervals in the 280−330-nm region by using dye-laser photolysis combined with cavity ring-down spec...
The pancreatic duct epithelium in vitro: Bile acid injury and the effect of epidermal growth factor

Abstract Background . Pancreatic duct epithelial cells form a barrier against parenchymal injury. The capacity of these cells to respond to injury has not been investigated. We hypothesized that epidermal growth factor (EGF), normally found in pancreatic juice, could protect the duct epithelium from damage. Methods . An explant system of duct cell culture developed in our lab with the bovine main pancreatic duct was used. Explants were exposed to bile acid (taurodeoxycholic add [TDCA] 0, 0.05, 0.5, and 1 mmol/L) in the presence or absence of EGF (0, 1, 10, and 100 nmol/L) for 48 hours. Epithelial proliferation, damage, and growth out from the explant edge were assessed histologically. Expression of ductal markers and the extent of cell proliferation were determined by immunohistochemistry using specific antibodies. Results . Explant duct cells proliferated and demonstrated continued expression of key duct antigens in culture. TDCA produced dose-dependent mucosal damage and reduced epithelial density and growth from the edge. EGF increased cellular density in the native epithelium, but did not significantly alter growth from the edge. Mucosal damage created by TDCA exposure was significantly decreased with EGF and both growth from the edge and cell density were preserved. Conclusions . Explants created from the bovine main pancreatic duct serve as an excellent model for the study of duct epithelial cells in vitro. These cells proliferate in response to EGF and are damaged by TDCA at concentrations below those normally associated with detergent-like activity and below levels observed in bile and duodenal secretions. The ability of EGF to protect from this injury suggests a potential physiologic role in the maintenance of the pancreatic duct mucosal barrier.
Some aspects of the wear of polycrystalline diamond tools in rock removal processes

Abstract Polycrystalline diamond compacts of relatively coarse grain size were evaluated for their wear properties by cutting a cylindrical core of sandstone on a lathe in a manner designed to produce a helical groove. It was observed that the diamond-diamond grain boundaries are sufficiently strong to sustain the severe stress and abrasion conditions so that each grain acts like a single-crystal diamond cutter and there is no massive particle pull-out. The wear mode is similar to that of a single-crystal diamond, except that gross cleavage is reduced by deformation bands generated during the sintering process.
Ab ovo or de novo? Mechanisms of centriole duplication

The centrosome, an organelle comprising centrioles and associated pericentriolar material, is the major microtubule organizing center in animal cells. For the cell to form a bipolar mitotic spindle and ensure proper chromosome segregation at the end of each cell cycle, it is paramount that the cell contains two and only two centrosomes. Because the number of centrosomes in the cell is determined by the number of centrioles, cells have evolved elaborate mechanisms to control centriole biogenesis and to tightly coordinate this process with DNA replication. Here we review key proteins involved in centriole assembly, compare two major modes of centriole biogenesis, and discuss the mechanisms that ensure stringency of centriole number.
Simulation of an anion in water: effect of ion polarizability

Abstract A polarizable-polar water model is used to study the structure of wate near a chloride ion. A semi-classical description of ion polarizability is included. Significant changes in the solute-solvent distribution functions are observed. When compared with a simulation without ion polarizability, it is found that the hydration number is further decreased when ion polarizability is present.
Advanced Functionally Graded Plate-Type Structures Impacted by Blast Loading

Abstract The foundation of the theory of functionally graded plates with simply supported edges, under a Friedlander explosive air-blast are developed within the classical plate theory (CPT). Within the development of the theory, the two constituent phases, ceramic and metal, vary across the wall thickness according to a prescribed power law. The theory includes the geometrical non-linearities, the dynamic effects, compressive tensile edge loadings, the damping effects, and thermal effects. The static and dynamic solutions are developed leveraging the use of a stress potential with the Extended Galerkin method and the Runge–Kutta method. Validations with simpler cases within the specialized literature are shown. The analysis focuses on how to alleviate the unwanted effects of large deformations through proper material selection and the proper gradation of the constituent phases or materials.
Does Suppressing the Thought of a Self-Relevant Stigma Affect Interpersonal Interaction?

In the current study, we examined the effects of women's suppressing negative gender stereotypes while interacting with a male confederate. Compared with control participants, those who suppressed negative thoughts about women's ability experienced less self-confidence, lower self-esteem, and were more nonverbally submissive during the interaction, particularly if they were high in stigma consciousness (Pinel, 1999). These findings illustrate the negative intra- and interpersonal consequences of stigma suppression.
Landau–Kleffner syndrome, electrical status epilepticus in slow wave sleep, and language regression in children

The Landau-Kleffner syndrome (LKS) and electrical status epilepticus in slow wave sleep (ESES) are rare childhood-onset epileptic encephalopathies in which loss of language skills occurs in the context of an epileptiform EEG activated in sleep. Although in LKS the loss of function is limited to language, in ESES there is a wider spectrum of cognitive impairment. The two syndromes are distinct but have some overlap. The relationship between the epileptiform EEG abnormalities and the loss of cognitive function remains controversial, even in LKS which is the most widely accepted as an acquired epileptic aphasia. Language regression also occurs in younger children, frequently in the context of a more global autistic regression. Many of these children have epileptiform EEGs. The term autistic regression with epileptiform EEG has been proposed for these children. Whether these children are part of an extended LKS spectrum is very controversial, because there are differences in age of onset, clinical phenotype, and EEG findings. An understanding of the available data on clinical characteristics, EEG findings, pathology, prognosis, and treatment of these syndromes is essential for further progress in this area.
Ill-Conditioned Covariance Matrices in the First-Order Two-Step Estimator

The e rst-order two-step estimator is found to occasionally produce e rst-step covariance matrices with very low, sometimes negative, eigenvalues. These low eigenvalues can cause large errors or meaningless estimates. A single matrix is found, which isshown to havea rank equalto the difference between thenumber of e rst- and second-step states.Furthermore, itisdemonstratedthatthebasisofthecolumnspaceofthismatrixremainse xedoncethelarge initial state error has decreased. A test matrix containing the (constant) basis of this column space and the partial derivative matrix relating e rst and second step states is derived. This matrix numerically drops rank at the same locationsthat thee rst-step covariancedoes.A simple exampleproblem involving dynamicsdescribed by two states and a range measurement illustrates the cause of this anomaly and application of the aforementioned numerical test.Suggestedmodie cationstothee lterthatcanmitigatethenumericalproblemscausedbythisanomalyaregiven.
EFFECT OF THEOPHYLLINE ON VENTILATORY PARAMETERS DURING INSPIRATORY RESISTIVE LOADING

Previous studies suggest that preterm infants lack the ventilatory reserve necessary to compensate for an additional inspiratory load. Theophylline (TH) is often prescribed for apnea of prematurity and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. To evaluate the effect of TH on ventilatory parameters, seven preterm infants (x ± SEM: 29.6 ± .92 weeks gestation; 1.24 ± .14 kg birthweight) were challenged with an externally applied inspiratory resistive load (300 cm H2O/L/sec). The infants were studied at a mean age of 46.3 ± 9.3 days, weight of 1.75 ± .19 kg, and TH level of 7.6 ± .9 mg%. Tidal volume (VT), frequency (f), minute ventilation (MV) inspiratory/total breath time (Ti/Ttot) and work of breathing (WOB) were assessed during spontaneous unloaded (UL) and loaded (L) breathing. Heart rate, transcutaneous O2 and CO2 tensions were continuously monitored. Mean ± SEM values are shown below: These data indicate that theophylline therapy is associated with an increased ventilatory effort in response to an inspiratory resistive challenge. This study suggests that theophylline therapy improves the ventilatory reserve capacity of preterm infants and enhances their ability to maintain ventilation during periods of obstructed breathing.
Single-cell internalization during zebrafish gastrulation

Abstract During gastrulation, germ layers are formed as prospective mesodermal and endodermal cells internalize and come to underlie the ectoderm [1–9]. Despite the pivotal role of gastrulation in animal development, the cellular interactions underlying this process are poorly understood. In zebrafish, mesoderm and endoderm formation requires the Nodal signals Cyclops and Squint and their cofactor One-eyed pinhead (Oep) [10–14]. We found that marginal cells in maternal-zygotic oep (MZ oep ) mutants do not internalize during gastrulation and acquire neural and tail fates at the expense of head and trunk mesendoderm. The lack of internalization in MZ oep embryos and the cell-autonomous requirement for oep in Nodal signaling enabled us to test whether internalization can be achieved by individual cells or whether it depends on interactions within a group of cells. We found that individual MZ oep mutant cells transplanted to the margin of wild-type blastula embryos initially internalize with their neighbors but are unable to contribute to the mesendoderm. In the reciprocal experiment, single wild-type cells transplanted to the margin of MZ oep mutant embryos autonomously internalize and can express the mesendodermal markers axial/foxA2 and sox17. These results suggest that internalization and mesendoderm formation in zebrafish can be attained autonomously by single cells.
Time Trends in the Use of Cholesterol-Lowering Agents in Older Adults: The Cardiovascular Health Study

Objectives To describe recent temporal patterns of cholesterol-lowering medication use and the characteristics that may have influenced the initiation of cholesterol-lowering therapy among those aged 65 years or older. Subjects and Methods A cohort of 5201 adults 65 years or older were examined annually between June 1989 and May 1996. We added 687 African American adults to the cohort in 1992-1993. We measured blood lipid levels at baseline and for the original cohort in the third year of follow-up. We assessed the use of cholesterol-lowering drugs at each visit. Results The prevalence of cholesterol-lowering drug use in 1989-1990 was 4.5% among the men and 5.9% among the women; these figures increased over the next 6 years to 8.1% and 10.0%, respectively, in 1995-1996. There was a 4-fold increase in the use of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors during the 6 years of follow-up, from 1.9% of all participants in 1989-1990 to 7.5% in 1995-1996. The use of bile acid sequestrants, nicotinic acid, and probucol declined from initial levels of less than 1% each. Among the participants who were untreated in 1989-1990, but eligible for cholesterol-lowering therapy after a trial of dietary therapy according to the 1993 guidelines of the National Cholesterol Education Panel, less than 20% initiated drug therapy in the 6 years of follow-up, even among subjects with a history of coronary heart disease. Among participants untreated at baseline but eligible for either cholesterol-lowering therapy or dietary therapy, initiation of cholesterol-lowering drug therapy was directly associated with total cholesterol levels, hypertension, and a history of coronary heart disease, and was inversely related to age, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, and difficulties with activities of daily living. Other characteristics that form the basis of the 1993 National Cholesterol Education Panel guidelines—diabetes, smoking, family history of premature coronary heart disease, and total number of risk factors—were not associated with the initiation of cholesterol-lowering drug therapy. Conclusions Given the clinical trial evidence for benefit, those aged 65 to 75 years and with prior coronary heart disease appeared undertreated with cholesterol-lowering drug therapy.
Evolution of the Sun's Spectral Irradiance Since the Maunder Minimum

Because of the dependence of the Sun's irradi- ance on solar activity, reductions from contemporary levels are expected during the seventeenth century Maunder Min- imum. New reconstructions of spectral irradiance are de- veloped since 1600 with absolute scales traceable to space- based observations. The long-term variations track the en- velope of group sunspot numbers and have amplitudes con- sistent with the range of Ca II brightness in Sun-like stars. Estimated increases since 1675 are 0.7%, 0.2% and0.07% in broadultraviolet, visible/nearinfraredandinfraredspectral bands, with a total irradiance increase of 0.2%.
Hormetic Responses in Neural Systems : Consideration, Contexts, and Caveats

Dr. Edward Calabrese asserts that hormetic responses occur in neural systems, and provides ample review of evidence to support this claim. In this essay, we survey Dr. Calabrese's findings, illustrate the somewhat provocative premise of hormesis, and posit that while evidence suggests that amplification of low-dose effects are operative in neural systems, it is equally important to consider observations and claims of hormesis in greater detail, and framed within the "cultural" and epistemic contexts of science. We offer specific caveats to avoid the overgeneralization of findings, oversimplification of putative effects or mechanisms, and the dogmatic adherence to a restrictive methodologic orientation. Finally, we assert that any meaningful discussion of hormesis must be grounded to methodologic rigor, yet openness, and must allow for a self-critical and self-revisionist epistemic approach. We attempt to show that the work presented by Calabrese takes a first and important step toward the initiation of dialectic, allows for the exchange of ideas, strives toward reconciliation of differences and the amelioration of error, and seeks intellectual synthesis.
Software to study environmental effects of hazardous waste sites

As a result of the Resources Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), the Comprehensive Response Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA), and the Clean Air Act, computer models are being used in the planning and decision making process of hazardous waste sites. Typical activities include remedial investigation, corrective action, remedial action, operation and maintenance, enforcement and assessment for these sites. The computer models are used to assess air dispersion, ground water contamination levels, designing liners, landfills, incinerators, estimating risk and exposures and estimating remedial cost. The development of software for hazardous waste sites has focused on different media, pathways and processes. The available software may be grouped into the following categories: Ground Water Models; and Surface Water Models.
Permissive hypercapnia with high-frequency oscillatory ventilation and one-lung isolation for intraoperative management of lung resection in a patient with multiple bronchopleural fistulae

We report the use of high-frequency oscillatory ventilation in the operating room during repair of multiple bronchopleural fistulae in a 9-year-old boy. In addition, we used principles of permissive hypercapnia to further minimize barotrauma. There were no cardiovascular consequences due to either the high-frequency ventilation or the permissive hypercapnia. Our goals in employing this strategy were to minimize barotrauma, minimize gas flow through the fistulae, and optimize the surgical results.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH—ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION: Anxiety Disorders in Patients with Idiopathic Priapism: Risk Factor and Pathophysiologic Link?

ABSTRACT Introduction A scientific explanation remains elusive for many presentations of recurrent ischemic priapism. Aim The aim of this article was to evaluate the possible clinical association between idiopathic priapism and anxiety disorders. Methods Twenty-one patients without identifiable, presumed etiologies for their priapism disorders presented consecutively to a single practitioner's clinical practice and underwent clinical history evaluation and management over a 2½-year interval. Main Outcome Measures The main outcome is the documentation of patient demographics and clinical profiles relating to medical history and priapism presentations. Results Anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder were self-reported in 10 patients. Conclusions The possible association between idiopathic priapism and anxiety disorders lends support for a central neurobiologic pathophysiology for the erectile disorder. Further neuropsychiatric studies of this clinical population is required to confirm the hypothesis. Burnett AL. Anxiety disorders in patients with idiopathic priapism: Risk factor and pathophysiologic link? J Sex Med 2009;6:1712–1718.
Crossroads of Empire: The Middle Colonies in British North America

This work examines the Middle Colonies-New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania-as a region at the center of imperial contests among competing European powers and Native American nations and at the fulcrum of an emerging British-Atlantic world of culture and trade. Ned C. Landsman traces the history of the Middle Colonies to address questions essential to understanding their role in the colonial era. He probes the concept of regionality and argues that while each territory possessed varying social, religious, and political cultures, the collective lands of New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania came to function as a region because of their particular history and their distinct place in the imperial and Atlantic worlds. Landsman demonstrates that the societal cohesiveness of the three colonies originated in the commercial and military rivalries among Native nations and developed further with the competing involvement of the European powers, eventually emerging as the focal point in the contest for dominion over North America. In relating this progression, Landsman discusses various factors in the region's development, including the Enlightenment, evangelical religion, factional politics, religious and ethnic diversity, and distinct systems of Protestant pluralism. Ultimately, he argues, it was within the Middle Colonies that the question was first posed, What is the American? An insightful and valuable classroom synthesis of the scholarship of the Middle Colonies, Crossroads of Empire makes clear the vital role of New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania in establishing an American identity.