cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Influence of environmental variables on foraging by juvenile American Robins

Juvenile birds lack the experience of adults and, as a result, are typically less efficient foragers. Environmental factors can influence how birds forage and the outcome of foraging bouts, but few investigators have considered the effects of such factors on the foraging behavior of juveniles. We examined the effects of two environmental factors, sunlight and soil moisture, on the foraging behavior of juvenile and adult American Robins (Turdus migratorius). Both factors had a significant effect on robin foraging, with robins more effective at capturing arthropods in the sun and worms in moist soils. However, juveniles were less successful than adults across all conditions. Juveniles were less successful than adults at capturing arthropods and were less efficient at capturing worms. Juveniles captured an average of one worm per minute, whereas adults captured nearly two worms per minute. Additionally, the high failure rates of juveniles (0.44/min) as compared to adults (0.20/min) may be indicative of their inability to choose suitable prey items. Finally, we found that juveniles tended to forage with other robins more than did adults, suggesting that they may use other individuals as cues for locating favorable foraging sites. SINOPSIS Las aves juveniles carecen de la experiencia de los adultos y como resultado son tipicamente menos eficientes en la busqueda de alimento. Variables ambientales pueden influir en como las aves realizan la busqueda de alimento y tambien en el resultado de la busqueda de alimento, pero pocos investigadores han considerado el efecto de estas variables en el comportamiento de busqueda de alimento en juveniles. Evaluamos los efectos de dos variables ambientales, luz solar y humedad del suelo, en el comportamiento de busqueda de alimento en juveniles y adultos de Turdus migratorius. Las dos variables tuvieron un efecto significativo en la busqueda de alimento de los individuos de esta especie, cuales fueron mas efectivos en capturar artropodos en el sol y mas efectivos en capturar gusanos en suelos humedos. Sin embargo, los juveniles fueron menos exitosos que los adultos en relacion a todas las variables. Los juveniles fueron menos exitosos que los adultos en la captura de artropodos y menos eficientes en la captura de gusanos. Los juveniles capturaron en promedio un gusano por minuto, mientras que los adultos capturaron casi dos gusanos por minuto. Adicionalmente, la alta tasa de fracasos de los juveniles (0.44/min) comparado con el de los adultos (0.20/min) puede ser indicativo de su poca habilidad de escoger presas adecuadas. Finalmente, encontramos que en comparacion con los adultos, los juveniles tenian una tendencia mas fuerte de buscar alimento en la compania de coespecificos. Esto sugiere que los juveniles usan otros individuos como guia para localizar lugares favorables para la busqueda de alimento.
Use of an Inspiratory Impedance Valve Improves Neurologically Intact Survival in a Porcine Model of Ventricular Fibrillation

Background— This study evaluated the potential for an inspiratory impedance threshold valve (ITV) to improve 24-hour survival and neurological function in a pig model of cardiac arrest. Methods and Results— Using a randomized, prospective, and blinded design, we compared the effects of a sham versus active ITV on 24-hour survival and neurological function. After 6 minutes of ventricular fibrillation (VF), followed by 6 minutes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with either a sham or an active valve, anesthetized pigs received 3 sequential 200-J shocks. If VF persisted, they received epinephrine (0.045 mg/kg), 90 seconds of CPR, and 3 more 200-J shocks. A total of 11 of 20 pigs (55%) in the sham versus 17 of 20 (85%) in the active valve group survived for 24 hours (P<0.05). Neurological scores were significantly higher with the active valve; the cerebral performance score (1=normal, 5=brain death) was 2.2±0.2 with the sham ITV versus 1.4±0.2 with the active valve (P<0.05). A total of 1 of 11 in the sha...
Discussion: a critique of ``Modeling suspended sediment distribution in continental shelf upwelling/downwelling settings''

A recent one-dimensional numerical model, the so-called GJ model, neglected horizontal advection and diffusion terms and used vague physical definition for its boundary conditions. An alternative two-dimensional numerical model, which corrects the GJ model’s deficiencies, is proposed to evaluate the physical effects of upwelling/downwelling on suspended sediment concentration (SSC) on continental shelves. The general SSC patterns derived from the two models are similar. However, in the case where settling velocity is larger than the maximum upwelling/downwelling velocity, the GJ model shows a homogeneous distribution of SSC, whereas the two-dimensional model identifies a distinct maximum SSC in the middle of the water column in combined upwelling and downwelling systems, and a SSC gradient in upwelling settings. Furthermore, when the maximum upwelling velocity is larger than the settling velocity, the GJ model shows a maximum SSC at the water surface, whereas the SSC is lower at the water surface when using the two-dimensional model.
DNA separation by EFFF in a microchannel

This paper theoretically explores the application of electric field flow fractionation (EFFF) for the size-based separation of DNA strands in a microchannel. An axial electric field cannot separate DNA strands in solution because the electrical mobility of the strands is independent of the length. However, lateral electric fields coupled with an axial Poiseuille flow can separate the DNA strands of different sizes. By using regular perturbation analysis, we obtain the effective diffusivity and the mean velocity of the DNA molecules that are undergoing a pressure driven Poiseuille flow in a 2D channel in presence of a lateral electric field. The mean velocities and the dispersion coefficients are then utilized to determine the scaling for length of the channel and the time required for separation of DNA molecules in different parameter regimes. The results show that EFFF can separate DNA strands in the range of 10 kbp that differ in size by about 2.5 kbp in about half an hour in a 1 cm long channel. While DNA strands can be separated by EFFF, the performance of devices based on EFFF seems to be at best comparable to other techniques such as entropic trapping.
Effect of grain boundary on nanoscale electronic properties of hydrogenated nanocrystalline silicon studied by Kelvin probe force microscopy

Hydrogenated nanocrystalline silicon (nc-Si:H) based alloys have strong potential in cost-effective and flexible photovoltaics. However, nc-Si:H undergoes light induced degradation (LID), which degrades the device efficiency by over 15%. The microstructural processes responsible for the LID are still under debate. Several recent studies suggest that the generation of metastable defects at grain/ grain-boundary (GB) interface enhances density of traps, which limits the charge collection efficiency. Conventional characterization techniques can measure transport properties such as electrical conductivity or carrier mobility averaged over large sample volumes. However, nanoscale characterization tools, such as Scanning Kelvin probe Force Microscopy (KFM), reveal local electronic properties of grains and GBs which may lead to better understanding of microscopic process of metastability. The optoelectronic properties of nc-Si:H films were measured in dark and under illumination to study the effect of LID at the nanoscale. The surface potential and charge distribution were measured in as-deposited and photo-degraded samples using a custom-designed scanning probe microscopy tool installed in an environment controlled glove-box. Photodegradation resulted in an upward bending of the conduction band edge, suggesting accumulation of photo-generated charges at GBs. This effect is attributed to the generation of acceptor like defects (traps) at GBs during illumination. Density of defects is estimated from grain/GB width and absolute value of band bending.
Functional explaining: a new approach to the philosophy of explanation

In this paper, I argue that explanations just ARE those sorts of things that, under the right circumstances and in the right sort of way, bring about understanding. This raises the question of why such a seemingly simple account of explanation, if correct, would not have been identified and agreed upon decades ago. The answer is that only recently has it been made possible to analyze explanation in terms of understanding without the risk of collapsing both to merely phenomenological states. For the most part, theories of explanation were for 50 years held hostage to the historical accident that they far outstripped in sophistication corresponding accounts of understanding.
Moderate predictive value of demographic and behavioral characteristics for a diagnosis of HPV16-positive and HPV16-negative head and neck cancer.

Summary Patients with HPV-positive and HPV-negative head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) are significantly different with regard to sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics that clinicians may use to assume tumor HPV status. Machine learning methods were used to evaluate the predictive value of patient characteristics and laboratory biomarkers of HPV exposure for a diagnosis of HPV16-positive HNSCC compared to in situ hybridization, the current gold-standard. Models that used a combination of demographic characteristics such as age, tobacco use, gender, and race had only moderate predictive value for tumor HPV status among all patients with HNSCC (positive predictive value [PPV] = 75%, negative predictive value [NPV] = 68%) or when limited to oropharynx cancer patients (PPV = 55%, NPV = 65%) and thus included a sizeable number of false positive and false negative predictions. Prediction was not improved by the addition of other demographic or behavioral factors (sexual behavior, income, education) or biomarkers of HPV16 exposure (L1, E6/7 antibodies or DNA in oral exfoliated cells). Patient demographic and behavioral characteristics as well as HPV biomarkers are not an accurate substitute for clinical testing of tumor HPV status.
Growth factor and benign prostatic hyperplasia

We have isolated, purified, and identified the major growth factor (basic fibroblast growth factor, bFGF) in human prostatic tissue. The role of this growth factor, if any, in the genesis of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) had not been established. Recent work identifying bFGF as the major angiogenesis factor in tissue and the finding that it is a potent stimulator of fibrostromal growth have focused attention on this growth factor as the major effector in wound healing and normal tissue repair. Several hypotheses are offered that could account for the action of bFGF in benign prostatic growth. Much additional work will be required to test these hypotheses.
Does surgical intervention significantly prolong the patency of failed angioaccess grafts previously treated with percutaneous techniques

In the last decade, percutaneous techniques have been increasingly used to treat angioaccess graft thrombosis. Often when catheter-based treatment fails, surgeons are called upon to treat these occluded bridge fistulas. It has been our impression that operative intervention has not significantly increased the longevity of angioaccess grafts that have failed percutaneous intervention. During a 2-year period, 101 operative procedures were performed on failed bridge fistulas. All had previously been treated with percutaneous thrombolysis and dilatation. The number of previous interventions ranged from one to five. Primary patency rates of the angioaccess grafts following surgical revision were 43%, 24%, and 12% at 30, 60, and 90 days, respectively. We conclude that surgical intervention does not significantly prolong the patency of angioaccess grafts that have previously failed percutaneous interventions and that its routine use cannot be recommended.
Distribution of 9 trace metals in 17 anatomic sites of dog heart tissue and their classification using pattern recognition

Abstract The concentrations (geometric means of 11 determinations) of 9 trace metals in 17 anatomic regions of dog heart tissue and blood vessels were determined. The relationships recognized within the set of trace metal profiles were comparable to those reported earlier for the cardiovascular systems of pig [ J. Mol. Cell. Cardiol. 6, 383 (1974)] and those of beef [ Bioinorg. Chem. ( in press )]. These included differences in trace metal concentrations that allowed differentaition of the following tissues from each other: (1) ordinary and specialized myocardium from blood vessels and heart valves, (2) blood vessels from heart valves and (3) arterial from venous tissues.
Effect of duration of haloperidol treatment on DA receptor supersensitization in aging C57BL/6J mice

Abstract Apomorphine-induced behavior, striatal [ 3 H]spiperone binding, and striatal choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) activity were assessed in6/12, 13, and 27–30 month-old male C57BL/6J mice following 0, 30, 60 or 90 days treatment with the dopaminergic (DA) antagonist haloperidol. Both apomorphine-induced behavior and [ 3 H]spiperone binding (B max ) increased linearly with duration of haloperidol treatment, with no detectable age difference in the degree of supersensitization, although basal receptor density declined with age. Middle- and old-aged mice showed prolonged stereotypic behavior relative to young mice, suggesting slower apomorphine clearance. No differences in ChAT activity were detected with either age or duration of haloperidol treatment. Although the group means of binding and behavior were highly related, the within group correlations were poor. Overall, the results suggest that aged animals are capable of DA receptor supersensitization when given a sufficient stimulus — in this case, relatively long treatment regimes. Previously reported deficits in neuroleptic-induced supersensitization in old mice may be confined to relatively short treatment periods at low doses.
Aging effects on the detonation velocity of XTX-8003☆

Abstract In this work we measured the effects of time and temperature on the detonation velocity of XTX-8003. We found an initial increase in velocity, followed by a total decrease of 2% after 48 months at the highest temperature. At the lower storage temperatures, the changes in velocity were only slight. Five batches of XTX-8003 were used in the study and each batch was significantly different in a statistical sense. However, all five batches performed satisfactorily. This data was best described by H. Eyring's model for uncased charges, which also can give us calculated values for h, an effects parameter. In general, with increasing exposure in the time-temperature matrix, h initially decreases up to about two years then increases non-linearly in the logarithmic time domain. Projections from our response surface analysis predict that the batches would function after storage of more than 30 years at room temperature (20°C). We established an empirical relationship between service life and storage temperature (°C): Service life (years) = 147 e −.0268) × (T°C).
Numerical solutions of reflected shock-wave flowfields with nonequilibrium chemical reactions

Flow fields construction for normal shock waves with nonequilibrium chemical reactions reflected from shock tube end wall
Umbilical Hernia Repair

n contrast to the vital role played by the umbilicus inutero, it has minimal physiologic importance afterbirth. It can be used as a convenient site for vascularaccess in newborns; neonatologists use umbilical arterialandumbilicalvenouscathetersfrequently.Theumbilicuscan be a portal for infection in newborns (omphalitis).Theumbilicusisfrequentlyusedasanentrysiteforlapa-roscopic procedures. Its psychological importancethroughout life has been observed in individuals whohave had surgical loss of their umbilicus.
Foreign Language Learning Disabilities The Identification of Predictive and Diagnostic Variables

Many students who repeatedly fail foreign language requirements, in spite of intensive tutoring, high academic potential, and motivation, are being referred to programs for learning disabled university students. Guidelines for diagnosing a disability in learning a foreign language, however, are not available. This research presents a method for identifying predictors of success in learning a foreign language at the university level and compares the performance of students identified as learning disabled on these predictors. The scores of regular students enrolled in introductory foreign language classes on the Modern Language Aptitude Test were compared with their foreign language course performance. The fourth and fifth subtests predicted a relationship to learning a foreign language. In addition, university learning disabled students exhibited significantly lower performance on all five of the Modern Language Aptitude subtests. The results of this study suggest that the information provided by the Moder...
Ionic effects on solid phase formation in 1-octadecanol films on levitated water drops

Abstract Levitated drops of water containing dispersed 1-octadecanol particles were evaporated into a flowing gas stream. Evaporation and resulting shrinkage of the drop collected the 1-octadecanol at the drop surface, concentrating the 1-octadecanol to surface densities more than ten times those needed for a phase change in Langmuir trough experiments, before the appearance of the solid (S) surface phase was observed. When acidic species were introduced into the aqueous substrate, this delay was reduced, and for initial pH values less than or equal to 4, the S phase of 1-octadecanol appeared at surface densities predicted from Langmuir trough data, i.e. no delay was observed. Ionic species in pH neutral substrate also speeded the phase change, but less markedly. The addition of NaOH further retarded the phase change at a concentration of 2 × 10 −4 M but exhibited no effect at 2 × 10 −5 M and lower concentrations. The effect of each ionic species added to the substrate on S phase formation was also concentration dependent, being most pronounced at initial concentrations above 1 × 10 −4 M, and indistinguishable from pure water below {4.0 × 10 −7 M . Light-scattering measurements on the experimental mixtures showed that 1-octadecanol in aqueous mixtures exists as small (
The Th17-ELR+ CXC Chemokine Pathway Is Essential for the Development of Central Nervous System Autoimmune Disease

The ELR+ CXC chemokines CXCL1 and CXCL2 are up-regulated in the central nervous system (CNS) during multiple sclerosis (MS) and its animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). However, their functional significance and the pathways regulating their expression are largely unknown. We show that transfer of encephalitogenic CD4+ Th17 cells is sufficient to induce CXCL1 and CXCL2 transcription in the spinal cords of naive, syngeneic recipients. Blockade or genetic silencing of CXCR2, a major receptor for these chemokines in mice, abrogates blood–brain barrier (BBB) breakdown, CNS infiltration by leukocytes, and the development of clinical deficits during the presentation as well as relapses of EAE. Depletion of circulating polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) had a similar therapeutic effect. Furthermore, injection of CXCR2+ PMN into CXCR2−/− mice was sufficient to restore susceptibility to EAE. Our findings reveal that a Th17–ELR+ CXC chemokine pathway is critical for granulocyte mobilization, BBB compromise, and the clinical manifestation of autoimmune demyelination in myelin peptide–sensitized mice, and suggest new therapeutic targets for diseases such as MS.
Brachmann-de Lange syndrome with normal IQ.

The Brachmann-de Lange syndrome is a disorder with a high degree of clinical variability, generally associated with moderate to severe mental retardation. To date, 7 previous cases of Brachmann-de Lange syndrome with normal intelligence (IQ > 70) have been described. We report the eighth case of Brachmann-de Lange syndrome with normal intelligence. In reviewing thr literature, consistent clinical menifestations seen in these 8 patients that are of prognostic value are the absence of significant limb anomalies and birth weight > 2,500 g. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Phyllosilicate alteration of plagioclase studied by transmission electron microscopy

The alteration halo of a sulfide-bearing vein in the Butte, Montana, copper deposit forms by a sequence of reactions over a period of geologic time. With analytical transmission electron microscopy (TEM) this sequence can be followed on a fine scale. We can confirm the general pattern of plagioclase altering to a smectite, which in turn changes through a series of intermediate phyllosilicate phases to 2M1 sericite in the most altered part. TEM reveals that the intermediate phyllosilicates are commonly highly disordered, only a few unit cells wide, with curved lattice planes and abundant interlayering. Before they coarsen they transform into new phases until stable 2M1 sericite is grown.
State of the Art in Stem Cell Research: Human Embryonic Stem Cells, Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells, and Transdifferentiation

Stem cells divide by asymmetric division and display different degrees of potency, or ability to differentiate into various specialized cell types. Owing to their unique regenerative capacity, stem cells have generated great enthusiasm worldwide and represent an invaluable tool with unprecedented potential for biomedical research and therapeutic applications. Stem cells play a central role in the understanding of molecular mechanisms regulating tissue development and regeneration in normal and pathological conditions and open large possibilities for the discovery of innovative pharmaceuticals to treat the most devastating diseases of our time. Not least, their intrinsic characteristics allow the engineering of functional tissues for replacement therapies that promise to revolutionize the medical practice in the near future. In this paper, the authors present the characteristics of pluripotent stem cells and new developments of transdifferentiation technologies and explore some of the biomedical applications that this emerging technology is expected to empower.
Observations on the morphology of the developing primate cornea: Epithelium, its innervation and anterior stroma

A survey is made of some ultrastructural features of the developing cornea of Macaca mulatta. The observations are confined to the anterior central area, starting with the lens vesicle stage and progressing through midgestation, when the morphologic characteristics of the cornea are fully established. Subepithelial filaments and some partially aggregated collagen fibrils are present in the earliest embryo and are of a size and appearance similar to those in the future vitreous cavity. Epithelial secretory activity points to, but does not prove direct contribution to the deposition of the acellular matrix components beneath it. No trace of a structured, orthogonal collagenous stroma can be visualized. The primitive endothelium forms prior to the fibroblast invasion of the distended filamentous matrix. Bowman's layer has undoubted epithelial contributions. Its aggregated collagen fibrils have approximately the same diameter as those of the anterior stroma. Intraepithelial appearance of single nerve fibers and fascicles takes place during the first trimester of gestation, as soon as the two continuous epithelial layers are formed. Terminal areas approach closely to the basal cell's nucleus, without touching it. The plasmalemma of the invaginating nerve fiber is surrounded by that of the epithelial cell in a mesaxon-like manner, with occasional gap junctions uniting adjoining neural and epithelial cell membranes. The fetal neurites contain microtubules, some clear vesicles and dense vacuoles resembling those of mature monamine and non-monamine neurons. Mitochondria are small and compact, their presence indicating a high rate of metabolic activity in the immature terminal area.
Advances in gamma-ray burst astronomy

The paper reviews the current status of observational research into the highly puzzling problem of cosmic gamma-ray bursts. Up to now there is no convincing temporal or spatial correlation with any known celestial processes or objects. The typical burst source strength is somewhere between 10 to the 26th power ergs and 10 to the 52nd power ergs. A list of 39 confirmed and 9 unconfirmed cosmic gamma-ray bursts observed by satellite is given, showing times of occurrence and in some cases, the size in erg per square centimeter. Several approaches to the problem of source object identification are discussed: (1) accumulation of observation statistics with their present poor resolution and research for correlative phenomena, (2) mapping out celestial source distributions with moderate resolution in order to search for galactic or other anisotropies in direction or to look for repeating source regions, and (3) very high-accuracy localization of the source directions of one or several bursts in order to pinpoint a tiny fraction of the celestial sphere for correlative radio, optical and X-ray studies. Planned future instrumentation for deep space probes and multiple-balloon studies is described.
Effects of age and diet upon fat body volume and composition in adult female Habrobracon juglandis.

The volume of the visceral fat body in the adult female of the wasp Habrobracon juglandis (Hymemoptera: Braconidae) declines drastically within the first week after emergence and then remains constant until death. The peripheral fat body also declines in volume but more slowly. The number of cells in both components changes only slightly. The loss in volume is due mainly to loss of reserve substances. Protein reserve granules are lost completely within the first week, but glycogen and lipid are still found in some cells after the first week. The volume of the visceral fat body initially declines less rapidly with starvation than with host-feeding. Although the fat body volume declines as rapidly in sugar-fed wasps as in host-fed wasps, the sugar-fed individuals survive longer when subsequently starved. The results are discussed in relation to the ecology of the wasp.
Some notes on singular integral techniques in boundary element analysis

The paper presented here reviews the numerical techniques used currently to calculate the singular integrals and nearly singular integrals in the boundary element analysis. Some incorrect algorithms published before are discussed and a new numerical technique to calculate the nearly singular integral is developed. The numerical results show a significant improvement in both accuracy and efficiency compared to the traditional adaptive Gaussian quadrature and subdivision techniques.
Using Film to Analyze Pedestrian Behavior

Previous research on individual, interpersonal, and collective units of pedestrian behavior is briefly summarized and critically evaluated. An alternative theoretical framework and methodological procedure are presented. The imposition of cartesian coordinates on a film record, corrected for “foreshortened perspective,” permits the accurate location, and systematic measurement of distances between, directions, and velocities of individual pedestrian movement. An index of coordinated movement permits the identification and comparison of the extent of collective locomotion within pedestrian streams and other aggregations of persons in public places. The framework and procedures are illustrated with the analysis of a film record of a short sequence of pedestrian behavior. Implications are discussed for several theoretical and applied problems.
Estimating spatially-variable first-order rate constants in groundwater reactive transport systems

Numerical reactive transport models are often used as tools to assess aquifers contaminated with reactive groundwater solutes as well as investigating mitigation scenarios. The ability to accurately simulate the fate and transport of solutes, however, is often impeded by a lack of information regarding the parameters that define chemical reactions. In this study, we employ a steady-state Ensemble Kalman Filter (EnKF), a data assimilation algorithm, to provide improved estimates of a spatially-variable first-order rate constant λ through assimilation of solute concentration measurement data into reactive transport simulation results. The methodology is applied in a steady-state, synthetic aquifer system in which a contaminant is leached to the saturated zone and undergoes first-order decay. Multiple sources of uncertainty are investigated, including hydraulic conductivity of the aquifer and the statistical parameters that define the spatial structure of the parameter field. For the latter scenario, an iterative method is employed to identify the statistical mean of λ of the reference system. Results from all simulations show that the filter scheme is successful in conditioning the λ ensemble to the reference λ field. Sensitivity analyses demonstrate that the estimation of the λ values is dependent on the number of concentration measurements assimilated, the locations from which the measurement data are collected, the error assigned to the measurement values, and the correlation length of the λ fields.
Androgen-deprivation Therapy and Diabetes Control Among Diabetic Men with Prostate Cancer

Abstract Background Androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) for prostate cancer (PCa) is associated with decreased insulin sensitivity and increased diabetes risk among nondiabetic men. Few data are available about the effects of ADT on diabetes control among men with diabetes. Objective We examined care for men who had diabetes at the time of PCa diagnosis to assess the effect of ADT on diabetes control, as measured by hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels and the intensification of diabetes pharmacotherapy. Design, setting, and participants This was an observational cohort study using US Department of Veterans Affairs registry data and administrative data to assess HbA1c levels and intensification of diabetes pharmacotherapy among 2237 pairs of propensity-matched men with PCa and diabetes who were or were not treated with ADT. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis We calculated the difference in difference of HbA1c levels at baseline and at 1 and 2 yr in the two groups, compared using a paired Student t test. We used a Cox proportional hazards model to estimate time to intensification of diabetes pharmacotherapy. Results and limitations The mean HbA1c at baseline was 7.24 (standard error [SE]: 0.05) for the ADT group and 7.24 (SE: 0.04) for the no-ADT group. HbA1c increased at 1 yr for men treated with ADT to 7.38 (SE: 0.04) and decreased among men not treated with ADT to 7.14 (SE: 0.04), for a difference in differences of +0.24 ( p =0.008). Results were similar at 2 yr ( p =0.03). The worsening HbA1c control occurred despite ADT being associated with an increased hazard of addition of diabetes medication (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.20; 95% confidence interval, 1.09–1.32). The limitation of this study was that it was observational and relied on administrative data. Conclusions ADT is associated with worsening of diabetes control and increases in HbA1c levels despite the use of additional diabetes medications.
The Center for Microanalysis of Materials

“Excuse me,” said a graduate student that I’ve not seen before, “I’d like to get some time on the Auger.”
GexSi1−x Waveguides Grown by Rapid Thermal Processing Chemical Vator Deposition

We report the growth and characterization of GexSi1−x films for optical waveguiding. GexSi1−x/Si waveguides were grown by rapid thermal processing chemical vapor deposition. An average attenuation of 3.3 dB/cm was achieved for a 1 μm thick Ge0.04Si0.96 layer patterned into rib waveguides 2000 A deep with widths of 5 μm. Directional couplers were also fabricated. Average coupling efficiencies of 85% were achieved for 1.5 μm interwaveguide separation.
Androgen receptor drives transcription of rat PACAP in gonadotrope cells.

Gonadotropin expression is precisely regulated within the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis through the complex interaction of neuropeptides, gonadal steroids. and both gonadal- and pituitary-derived peptides. In the anterior pituitary gland, the neuropeptide pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) modulates gonadotropin biosynthesis and secretion, acting both alone and in conjunction with GnRH. Steroid hormone feedback also influences gonadotropin expression via both direct and indirect mechanisms. Evidence from nonpituitary tissues suggests that PACAP may be a target for gonadal steroid regulation. In the present study, we show that androgen markedly stimulates rat (r) PACAP promoter-reporter activity in the LβT2 mature mouse gonadotrope cell line. 5′-Serial deletion analysis of reporter constructs identifies 2 regions of androgen responsiveness located at (−915 to −818) and (−308 to −242) of the rPACAP promoter. Androgen receptor (AR) binds directly to DNA cis-elements in each of these regions in vitro. Site-directed mutagenesis of 3 conserved hormone response element half-sites straddling the (−308 to −242) region dramatically blunts androgen-dependent PACAP promoter activity and prevents AR binding at the mutated promoter element. Chromatin immunoprecipitation demonstrates that endogenous AR binds the homologous region on mouse chromatin in LβT2 cells in both the presence and absence of androgen. These data demonstrate that androgen stimulates PACAP gene expression in the pituitary gonadotrope via direct binding of AR to a specific cluster of evolutionarily conserved hormone response elements in the proximal rPACAP gene promoter. Thus, androgen regulation of pituitary PACAP expression may provide an additional layer of control over gonadotropin expression within the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.
Acanthosis nigricans and obesity: acquired and intrinsic defects in insulin action.

Six obese, severely acanthotic females were evaluated for insulin resistance by an oral glucose tolerance test, intravenous insulin tolerance test, and insulin binding to freshly isolated monocytes, as well as studies of cultured skin fibroblasts. After baseline studies were obtained, the acanthotic subjects were maintained for 14 days on a 500 calorie diet, and the evaluations were repeated. Initial evaluation demonstrated normal glucose tolerance, but marked fasting hyperinsulinemia (57 ± 5 μU/mL) and dramatically blunted response to exogenous insulin (KITT, 2.0%/min) when compared with five nonacanthotic weight-matched controls (insulin, 15 ± 2 μU/mL; KITT, 5.2%/min). Monocyte insulin binding for the acanthotic group (0.251 ± 0.050%106 cells) was only 56% of the binding seen in the obese controls (0.447 ± 0108%). After the acanthotic females dieted for 14 days, their hyperinsulinemia and monocyte insulin binding improved, but failed to normalize. The response to exogenous insulin was unchanged and remained drastically blunted. In contrast to the normal insulin binding found in the cultured fibroblasts from the nonacanthotic obese controls, insulin binding to fibroblasts from the acanthotic group was decreased by 40%, suggesting that an intrinsic defect in insulin binding was present. Thus, we conclude that this cohort of acanthotic obese females are considerably more insulin-resistant than nonacanthotic weight-matched females. Furthermore, these studies suggest that the severe insulin resistance results from a combination of an acquired defect related to obesity and an inherent cellular defect in insulin action at, or beyond, the receptor.
On the stochastic geometrical foundations of metric multidimensional scaling

Abstract This paper deals with the topological and measure theoretic probability foundations of metric multidimensional scaling. The first four sections develop minimal separation properties for a set of points or space to model a stimulus. The next three sections give measure theoretic probabilistic structure to random stimulus points and their random connecting paths.
Abnormal translation in SLAP lesions on magnetic resonance imaging abducted externally rotated view.

Purpose The purpose of this study was to measure in vivo axial-plane translation of the glenohumeral joint by use of magnetic resonance imaging in patients with and without SLAP lesions between the conventional adducted neutral rotation (AD) view and an abducted externally rotated (ABER) view. Methods Seven patients with an intraoperative SLAP lesion that was unstable and required repair were selected into the SLAP group. Although they did not have normal shoulders, 15 patients were selected into the control or comparison group, most of whom had rotator cuff pathology. The glenohumeral contact point (CP) and humeral head center (HHC) were calculated and compared with the glenoid surface as a relative anterior or posterior translation. The relative posterior translation between the ABER and AD views for each patient was calculated as ΔCP and ΔHHC. These values were compared between the SLAP and control groups. Results There was a significant difference in ΔCP between the SLAP and control groups (3.62 v 0.79 mm of relative posterior translation, P = .005). There was not a similar significant difference found in ΔHHC between the SLAP and control groups (3.19 mm v 1.48 mm of relative posterior translation, P = .14). There was a significant difference between the mean translations of the SLAP-ABER group and the SLAP-AD group for both CP (−3.65 mm v −0.04 mm, P = .008) and HHC (−2.22 mm v +0.97 mm, P = .03). The difference between the control-ABER group and the control-AD group was not as pronounced. Conclusions The magnetic resonance imaging ABER view in patients with unstable SLAP lesions requiring repair showed in vivo glenohumeral posterior translation relative to the adducted neutral rotation view of greater than 3 mm. Clinical Relevance This finding furthers the understanding of the pathokinematics in SLAP lesions.
Early invasive adenocarcinoma of the cervix

BACKGROUND Adenocarcinoma of the cervix is increasing in frequency. There is a dearth of specific detail concerning the histomorphology, histogenesis, and associated findings in early invasive cervical adenocarcinoma. METHODS Forty cases of cervical adenocarcinoma invasive to 5 mm or less were examined in detail. RESULTS Mean patient age was 40.9 years. In 78% of the cases, the midpoint of the invasive focus was in the region of the squamocolumnar junction or transformation zone; more than 1 invasive focus was present in 4 cases. Eighty-five percent of cases also had adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS). In 9 of 10 minimally invasive cases, small invasive glands were present in the stroma adjacent to AIS. In some of these, the AIS had preinvasive buds that were still attached. Endometrioid adenocarcinomas were associated with AIS but were located higher in the canal than the more common endocervical type. All three adenosquamous carcinomas were associated with both squamous intraepithelial neoplasia and AIS. Vascular space invasion was observed in two cases, microglandular hyperplasia in four. CONCLUSIONS Adenocarcinoma in situ is the precursor to most adenocarcinomas of the cervix with an average interval between clinically detected AIS and early invasion of approximately 5 years, supporting the potential for Papanicolaou test screening to prevent this disease. However, the existence of small carcinomas in the absence of AIS suggests the possibility of rapid progression in some cases. Invasion occurs by budding from or expansion of AIS glands, usually in the region of the squamocolumnar junction. Multifocal invasion is uncommon, as is vascular invasion in early lesions. The endometrioid variant has the same histogenesis as the endocervical type but may arise higher in the canal. The precursor of adenosquamous carcinoma has a similar bimorphic differentiation potential. Microglandular hyperplasia is not related to early invasive adenocarcinoma. Cancer 2000;89:1048–55. © 2000 American Cancer Society.
Effects of field length and management practices on dissolved organic carbon export in furrow irrigation

Abstract Farming practices, including tillage, cover cropping and residue management can have profound effects on the efficiency of irrigation practices. The effects of three field management practices (FMPs) standard tillage and winter-fallow (ST), standard tillage and winter-cover crop (STCC), and no-till and winter-fallow (NT) and two field lengths (122 and 366 m) on runoff and export of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) were investigated in a furrow-irrigated cropping system over two years. The residue cover was 40, 32 and 11% in 2007, and 58, 61 and 11% in 2008 for STCC, NT and ST, respectively. Furrow irrigation experiments were conducted prior to crop planting following the cover crop. The inflow was kept constant across all treatments, and infiltration and runoff were estimated using a volume balance model (VBM). The DOC concentration tended to increase with increasing field length, but did not differ among the FMPs. A threefold increase in field length increased infiltration by 40%, and decreased runoff by 60–90% and DOC export by 65–83%. In both years, infiltration was highest in STCC. In NT, infiltration was lowest in 2007, which was likely due to soil sealing, and intermediate among the three FMPs in 2008 perhaps due to the increase in residue cover in the second year. The DOC budget analysis showed that fields and FMPs acted as DOC sinks exporting less DOC than was applied in the irrigation water. The results suggest that longer furrows and STCC were greater DOC sinks compared to ST and shorter field practices. The VBM, as applied in this study to estimate infiltration and runoff, could be used to predict optimal field length to minimize runoff and promote DOC adsorption to soil within the constraints of water quality and availability and soil conditions.
Mononuclear leukocyte fatty acid composition and inflammatory phenotype in periparturient and lactating sows

Increased plasma NEFA concentrations and compromised immune responses are associated with increased disease susceptibility during farrowing and lactation. Increased plasma NEFA concentrations cause changes in the fatty acid (FA) content of plasma lipid fractions and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) that could modify inflammatory responses. The goals of this study were to describe changes in plasma lipid composition and to characterize the FA content and proinflammatory phenotype of PBMC in periparturient and lactating sows. Blood samples from 10 sows were collected at 2 wk prefarrow, at 2 d after farrowing (hereafter referred to as farrowing), and at 18 d of lactation (hereafter referred to as lactation). Total lipids and lipid fractions were extracted from plasma and PBMC. Isolated PBMC also were assessed for gene expression of proinflammatory cytokines and enzymes involved in lipid mediator biosynthesis using quantitative PCR. The FA profile of plasma NEFA, phospholipids, neutral lipids, and PBMC phospholipids differed from the composition of total lipids in plasma. At farrowing and lactation, the proportion of palmitic and stearic acids increased (P<0.05) in the plasma NEFA and phospholipid fractions in comparison with prefarrowing concentrations. At the same time, the concentration of palmitic and linoleic acids increased (P<0.05) in the PBMC phospholipid fraction. Omega-3 FA, including docosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic, increased (P<0.05) at farrowing in plasma and PBMC phospholipids compared with prefarrowing and lactation. Gene expression of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) decreased (P<0.05) after farrowing and in lactation. Similarly, cyclooxygenase expression was reduced during lactation when compared with farrowing (P<0.05). This study demonstrated changes in FA composition of serum lipid fractions and PBMC cellular membranes. Furthermore, it provided an initial assessment of inflammatory responses in mononuclear cells as a function of plasma and PBMC content of saturated and omega-3 FA. Future studies need to address the effect of increased NEFA concentrations, the main hallmark of lipid mobilization, and changes in plasma and cellular lipid profiles on immune function.
Anomalous Solid-Particle Erosion Rate of Hot-Pressed Silicon Carbide

The steady-state erosion rate of a commercial hot-pressed SiC was investigated using angular Al/sub 2/O/sub 3/ particles. An anomalous size dependence was observed which may be due to grain boundries. (DLC)
Tail Regeneration in Xenopus laevis as a Model for Understanding Tissue Repair

Augmentation of regenerative ability is a powerful strategy being pursued for the biomedical management of traumatic injury, cancer, and degeneration. While considerable attention has been focused on embryonic stem cells, it is clear that much remains to be learned about how somatic cells may be controlled in the adult organism. The tadpole of the frog Xenopus laevis is a powerful model system within which fundamental mechanisms of regeneration are being addressed. The tadpole tail contains spinal cord, muscle, vasculature, and other terminally differentiated cell types and can fully regenerate itself through tissue renewal--a process that is most relevant to mammalian healing. Recent insight into this process has uncovered fascinating molecular details of how a complex appendage senses injury and rapidly repairs the necessary morphology. Here, we review what is known about the chemical and bioelectric signals underlying this process and draw analogies to evolutionarily conserved pathways in other patterning systems. The understanding of this process is not only of fundamental interest for the evolutionary and cell biology of morphogenesis, but will also generate information that is crucial to the development of regenerative therapies for human tissues and organs.
Experimental ectopic cardiac rhythms

Abstract Sodium chloride, sodium oxalate, sodium citrate, and veratrine in various concentrations were injected subepicardially into the exposed heart of the dog. In twenty-two of twenty-nine experiments these substances elicited transient ectopic rhythms. The rate of these rhythms showed a constant relationship to that of the sinus rhythm and therefore a constant relationship among themselves; this relationship was independent of the concentration of the substances used as well as the area of injection in the right or left ventricle. Certain forms of these ectopic rhythms depended on whether the ectopic ventricular beats were reversely conducted back to the atria. Firing of ectopic beats in groups was observed, and the propensity of different hearts to this form of impulse formation was pronounced in some animals and absent in others. The similarity between the rates of the prevailing sinus rhythm and the ectopic rhythm produced electrocardiographic tracings simulating the preexcitation syndrome. An attempt is made to explain the mechanism of these rhythms on the basis of data obtained in neurophysiology and skeletal muscle physiology.
Effect of ovine corticotropin-releasing hormone administered during insulin-induced hypoglycemia on plasma adrenocorticotropin and cortisol.

The factors that mediate the hypothalamic-pituitary response to hypoglycemia in man are unknown. To investigate the role of CRH in the plasma ACTH response to hypoglycemia, two different doses of ovine CRH (oCRH) were given to normal men during insulin-induced hypoglycemia. We hypothesized that if the endogenous CRH response to hypoglycemia were less than maximally stimulating, administration of oCRH during hypoglycemia would result in a greater peak plasma immunoreactive (IR) ACTH response. Six normal men were given 1) 0.15 U/kg regular insulin, iv; 2) insulin plus 1 μg/kg oCRH, iv, 5 min after serum glucose fell to 40 mg/dL or less; and 3) oCRH alone. The degree and duration of hypoglycemia were the same when insulin was given alone or with oCRH. Plasma IR-ACTH after insulin alone and insulin plus oCRH rose at the same rate to similar peaks of 226 ± 37 (mean ± sem) and 213 ± 53 pg/mL, respectively, both of which were greater (P < 0.05) than the peak plasma IR-ACTH after oCRH alone (61 ± 19 pg/mL). The p...