cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Interleukin-4 suppresses IL-1-induced expression of matrix metalloproteinase-3 in human gingival fibroblasts.

283 Background: In periodontitis, matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3, stromelysin 1) is present at increased levels in active disease sites compared to inactive or healthy sites, and the levels are correlated with clinical parameters and associated with progression of the disease. Interleukin (IL)-4 has been shown in human skin and synovial fibroblasts and articular chondrocytes to suppress IL-1‐induced expression of MMP-3, but this has not been shown in human gingival fibroblasts. The objective of this study is to determine the effects of IL-4 on the IL-1‐induced expression of MMP-3 in human gingival fibroblasts isolated from patients with periodontitis. Methods: Northern blot analysis was performed to determine the effects of IL-4 on the IL-1 induction of MMP-3 mRNA. MMP-3 protein levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and prostaglandin E 2 (PGE 2 ) levels were measured by enzyme immunoassay (EIA). DNA binding of activator protein (AP)-1 and nuclear factor (NF)-κB was assessed by electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). Results: Northern blot analysis revealed that co-incubation of gingival fibroblasts with IL-1 and IL-4 resulted in a significant decrease in MMP-3 mRNA levels compared to IL-1 alone, with a concomitant decrease in protein levels. This inhibition is dosedependent, and is apparent as early as 3 hours after stimulation. IL-1-induced production of PGE 2 was not affected in four of six cultures isolated from different individuals. Addition of exogenous PGE 2 had no effect on the suppressive effects of IL4. DNA binding of transcription factors AP-1 and NF-κB was not affected by IL-4. Conclusions: IL-4 inhibits the IL-1 induction of MMP-3 in human gingival fibroblasts isolated from patients with periodontitis. This effect is independent of PGE 2 and is not due to inhibition of the DNA binding activity of known transcription factors binding to the MMP-3 promoter. J Periodontol 2004;75:283-291.
Depressed Pregnant Black Women Have a Greater Incidence of Prematurity and Low Birthweight Outcomes

Pregnant black depressed women were compared to pregnant black non-depressed women on self-report stress measures and cortisol levels at mid and late pregnancy and on neonatal outcomes. The depressed women had higher anxiety, anger, daily hassles, sleep disturbance scores and cortisol levels at both prenatal visits. These higher stress levels may have contributed to the greater incidence of prematurity and low birthweight neonatal outcomes noted in the depressed group, and they may partially explain the higher rate of prematurity and low birthweight among black women.
Design, Implementation and Evaluation of a New Core Learning Objectives Curriculum for a Urology Clerkship

Purpose: Until recently, medical students at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health participated in a traditional 2-week urology clerkship. We hypothesized that a new curriculum with core learning objectives and student oriented didactic sessions would increase learning and satisfaction compared to a traditional clerkship.Materials and Methods: Between July 2008 and June 2009, 55 medical students completed the urology clerkship following the traditional curriculum. Between July 2009 and June 2010, 51 students followed the core learning objectives curriculum. We compared the curriculum outcomes using objective and subjective measures. Overall student participation was 90%, with 95 of 106 students completing both assessment tools.Results: The objective scores of the students following the core learning objectives were higher than those of the students following the traditional curriculum. The t test to evaluate the difference between the 2 curricula was statistically significant (t...
Independence and Special Tight Closure

Abstract In this paper we introduce two new notions and show how they contribute to a better understanding of tight closure.
Plant dermatitis due to the compositae (Asteraceae) family

Dermatitis due to members of the Compositae (Asteraceae) family of plants has been reported for many years from several parts of the world. Nevertheless, it seems to be overlooked by many present-day clinicians, undoubtedly because clinically it mimics photodermatitis or an airborne contact dermatitis of nonplant origin. This clinical review summarizes the rich literature on the subject, emphasizes the remarkably consistent clinical picture, and updates for readers relevant advances in botanical biochemistry and clinical implications, as well as current methods for diagnosis, attempts at treatment, and concepts of pathogenesis. It is hoped that the review will focus needed attention on this syndrome and will enhance prospects for accurate diagnosis, as well as further investigations into treatment and prevention.
Time Use and the Impact of Technology Examining workspaces in the home

Times have changed. The distinctions between work time and household time are no longer limited by the constraints of physical space. Indeed, the boundaries of time and space between the home and the outside world have been blurred by home computers, faxes, email, pagers, and other technologies, bringing home into the workplace and work into the home space. The purpose of this manuscript is to re-examine the time–space relationship as new patterns of time use are necessitated by home workspaces. My particular interest lies in proposing and developing a conceptual schema that helps researchers to examine the intra-household time interactions that result when workspaces are integrated within the home space. In the present study, I develop a set of research propositions and a conceptual framework for analytical use.
On mysticism and esotericism among the Zoroastrians

The idea of Zoroastrian mysticism might at first glance seem a contradiction in terms. The Good Religion, after all, is cimig, "rational," above all else: Zoroaster elegantly solved the most intractable mystery of all faiths, theodicy, by the revelation of cosmic dualism.' The mere assertion that there are esoteric doctrines within Zoroastrianism has been criticized.2 This criticism springs in part from a flawed perception of mysticism itself, which, as it will be argued, is not an independent entity, everywhere the same. Rather, each religion has a mysticism of its own, often irreconcilable in some of its features with the mainstream, and, in the case of Zoroastrianism, with some of the religion's plain logic. Also, the existence of mysticism within a religious tradition does not imply its centrality to that tradition. Mysticism exists in Christianity, but could scarcely be called essential to it, considering the claim, elaborated as the Christian church rose to universal prominence, to the radically overt and suffi
Dimorphism and haploid fruiting in Cryptococcus neoformans: association with the alpha-mating type

Cryptococcus neoformans is a major opportunistic fungal pathogen in AIDS and other immunosuppressed patients. We have shown that wild-type haploid C. neoformans can develop an extensive hyphal phase under appropriate conditions. Hyphae produced under these conditions are monokaryotic, possess unfused clamp connections, and develop basidia with viable basidiospores. The ability to undergo this transition is determined by the presence of the alpha-mating type locus and is independent of serotype. The association of the hyphal phase with the alpha-mating type may explain the preponderance of this mating type in the environment and the nature of the infectious propagule of C. neoformans.
Synthesis of alpha fetoprotein by immature rat uterus.

Abstract Reported free and bound molecular forms of alpha fetoprotein detected in immature uterine cytosol could be due to either selective uptake from the serum and/or intracellular synthesis by this tissue. In this study immature rat uterus synthesized initially immunounreactive bound alpha fetoprotein, which becomes immunoreactive after treatment with 0.4M KCl, but failed to synthesize free alpha fetoprotein. This indicates that bound alpha fetoprotein is not a conversion product of the free form, and suggests a relationship between alpha fetoprotein synthesis and uterine growth and development.
Intramolecular vibrational relaxation: Effects on electronic nonradiative relaxation rates

The effects of intramolecular vibrational relaxation (IVR) on radiationless transition rates are investigated. IVR has previously been suggested as an explanation of the observed saturation of the decay rate in tetracene S1→S0 internal conversion and in toluene T1→S0 intersystem crossing at high vibrational energies. Explicit calculations for transition rates under weak coupling in the statistical limit are presented which demonstrate that when IVR is operative a slow exponential increase of the nonradiative decay rate with vibrational energy is expected, in contrast to the experimentally observed rapid initial increase followed by saturation at higher vibrational energies. Speculations of alternative decay mechanisms are presented, and new, simple approximate formulas are derived for the relative nonradiative decay rates of single vibronic levels.
Exercise effects on polyp burden and immune markers in the ApcMin/+ mouse model of intestinal tumorigenesis

Many observational epidemiologic studies suggest an association between exercise and colon cancer risk. The mechanisms contributing to a preventative effect of exercise on colon cancer are complex and multifaceted. Altered immune system function is one possible mechanism that has been largely unexplored. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the effects of exercise on markers associated with macrophages and select T cell populations in a mouse model of intestinal tumorigenesis and to relate this to polyp characteristics. Male Apc(Min/+) mice were randomly assigned to either sedentary (Sed) or exercise (Ex) treatment (n=6-9/group). The exercise treatment consisted of treadmill running for 1 h/day and 6 days a week at 15 m/min from 4 until 16 weeks of age. Intestinal polyps were counted and categorized by size. Mucosal tissue was analyzed for mRNA expression of overall macrophages (F4/80), for genes associated with M1 (IL-12, IL-23 and Nos2) and M2 (CD206, IL-10, IL-4, CCL17, CCL22 and Arg-1) macrophages and the macrophage chemoattractants MCP-1, fetuin A and CXCL14. Markers for cytotoxic T cells (CTLs) and regulatory T cells were also examined by measuring mRNA expression of CD8 and Foxp3, respectively. While there was no significant difference in overall polyp number between the groups (Sed, 23.3±4.3; and Ex, 16.5±4.3), Ex did have a reduction in the number of large polyps (Sed, 6.1±1.1; and Ex, 3.0±0.6) (P<0.05). This was consistent with a decrease in spleen weight (P<0.05). Similarly, Ex reduced mRNA expression of overall macrophages (F4/80) as well as markers associated with both M1 (IL-12) and M2 (CD206, CCL22 and Arg-1) subtypes (P<0.05) but there was no significant decrease in macrophage chemoattractants. CD8 expression was increased while Foxp3 expression was decreased with Ex (P<0.05). Overall the data provide important new information on immune regulation as a possible mechanism for the documented benefits of exercise training on reducing colon cancer progression.
Lung Cancer Chemoprevention

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States, and the majority of diagnoses are made in former smokers. Although avoidance of tobacco abuse and smoking cessation clearly will have the greatest impact on lung cancer development, effective chemoprevention could prove to be more effective than treatment of established, advanced-stage disease. Chemoprevention is the use of dietary or pharmaceutical agents to reverse or block the carcinogenic process and has been successfully applied to common malignancies other than lung (including recent reports on the prevention of breast cancer in high-risk individuals). Despite previous studies in lung cancer chemoprevention failing to identify effective agents, our ability to define the highest-risk populations and the understanding of lung tumor and premalignant biology continue to make advances. Squamous cell carcinogenesis in the bronchial epithelium starts with normal epithelium and progresses through hyperplasia, metaplasia, dysplasia, and c...
An IncY plasmid-encoded single-stranded DNA-binding protein from Escherichia coli shows the identical pattern of stacked tryptophan residues as the chromosomal ssb gene product

In an extension of earlier studies on the Escherichia coli plasmid-encoded single-stranded DNA-binding proteins pIP71a SSB, F SSB and R64 SSB [Khamis, M. I., Casas-Finet, J. R., Maki, A. H., Ruvolo, P. P. & Chase, J. W. (1987) Biochemistry 26, 3347-3354; Casas-Finet, J. R., Khamis, M. I., Maki, A. H., Ruvolo, P. P. & Chase, J. W. (1987) J. Biol. Chem. 262, 8574-8593], we have investigated the binding of pIP231a SSB to natural and heavy-atom-derivatized single-stranded homopolynucleotides. Fluorimetric equilibrium binding isotherms indicate that pIP231a SSB has a greater solubility at low ionic strength than any other plasmid SSB protein investigated. Furthermore, its complex with mercurated poly(uridylic acid) [poly(Hg5U)] shows a greater resistance to disruption by salt than the other plasmid SSB complexes. Essentially complete binding of pIP231a SSB to poly(Hg5U) could be achieved, and time-resolved optically detected triplet-state magnetic resonance (ODMR) techniques could be applied to the complex. These methods allowed complete resolution of the three Trp chromophores of pIP231a SSB. Comparison of wavelength-selected ODMR results with those obtained for the poly(Hg5U) complex of a point-mutated chromosomal ssb gene product (Eco SSB) carrying substitutions of Phe for Trp [Khamis, M. I., Casas-Finet, J. R., Maki, A. H., Murphy, J. B. & Chase, J. W. (1987) J. Biol. Chem. 262, 10938-10945] confirm that Trp40 and Trp54 of pIP231a SSB are stacked in the complex, while Trp88 is not. This is the same distribution of stacked Trp residues found in Eco SSB. These results are confirmed further by specific effects observed on the ODMR signals of pIP231a SSB upon binding to poly(Br5U) and poly(dT), which are known to be caused by the stacking of Trp54 with nucleic acid bases.
Alleviating the Adverse Effects of Residual Stress in RF MEMS Switches

This paper presents two methods for counteracting the unwanted deflection due to warping or buckling effects, which are serious potential problems in many fabrication processes of microelectromechanical (MEMS) structures due to thin film phenomena. This study is primarily suited for electrostatically actuated RF MEMS switches whose RF and DC performance can be significantly deteriorated by out of plane warping. It can also be applied to MEMS accelerometers, resonators and other similar systems. The first technique focuses on modifying the support structure and the spring constant of the switch, while the second involves a more complicated fabrication process, which selectively increases the switch thickness. Both these techniques yield switches with two to ten times less warping under the same fabrication conditions. The second method, however, presents the additional advantage of maintaining the actuation voltage almost unaffected.
Sloshing motions in excited tanks

A fully non-linear finite difference model has been developed based on inviscid flow equations. Numerical experiments of sloshing wave motion are undertaken in a 2-D tank which is moved both horizontally and vertically. Results of liquid sloshing induced by harmonic base excitations are presented for small to steep non-breaking waves. The simulations are limited to a single water depth above the critical depth corresponding to a tank aspect ratio of hs/b = 0.5. The numerical model is valid for any water depth except for small depth when viscous effects would become important. Solutions are limited to steep non-overturning waves. Good agreement for small horizontal forcing amplitude is achieved between the numerical model and second order small perturbation theory. For large horizontal forcing, non-linear effects are captured by the third-order single modal solution and the fully non-linear numerical model. The agreement is in general good, both amplitude and phase. As expected, the third-order compared to the second-order solution is more accurate. This is especially true for resonance, high forcing frequency and mode interaction cases. However, it was found that multimodal approximate forms should be used for the cases in which detuning effects occur due to mode interaction. We present some test cases where detuning effects are evident both for single dominant modes and mode interaction cases. Furthermore, for very steep waves, just before the waves overturn, and for large forcing frequency, a discrepancy in amplitude and phase occurs between the approximate forms and the numerical model. The effects of the simultaneous vertical and horizontal excitations in comparison with the pure horizontal motion and pure vertical motion is examined. It is shown that vertical excitation causes the instability associated with parametric resonance of the combined motion for a certain set of frequencies and amplitudes of the vertical motion while the horizontal motion is related to classical resonance. It is also found that, in addition to the resonant frequency of the pure horizontal excitation, an infinite number of additional resonance frequencies exist due to the combined motion of the tank. The dependence of the non-linear behaviour of the solution on the wave steepness is discussed. It is found that for the present problem, non-linear effects become important when the steepness reaches about 0.1, in agreement with the physical experiments of Abramson [Rep. SP 106, NASA, 1966].
Frequency Locked Microtoroid Optical Resonators as a Non-Invasive Tumor Biopsy Alternative

Whispering gallery mode optical resonators offer an unusual coupling of rapid response time and ultra-sensitive biological and chemical detection. We have improved the signal to noise ratio of microtoroid optical resonators ∼1000-fold over standard techniques by using laser frequency locking and have applied this to assay tumor progression in mice by sensing the low concentrations of exosomes, shed by tumor cells, in serum samples collected from the animals. Serum samples from normal or experimental mice cause no shift in the resonance wavelength of the microtoroids; however, after using antibodies toward specific tumor markers to sensitize the toroid surface, we detected changes in the resonance frequency of the microtoroid when exposed to the serum of tumor-implanted mice. Serum from control (tumor-free) mice caused no shift. The wavelength shifts observed were 600 times the noise and drift of the sensor, even for a million fold dilution of the serum sample. Analysis of the shifts showed unitary steps of ∼ 0.5 fm, suggesting that the assay may be sensitive enough to detect individual binding events, offering a means to analyze the size of the biomolecules that are binding to the resonator. If validated, this approach offers a non-invasive tumor “biopsy,” exploiting the circulation of blood to collect a sample of tumor surfaces without the need to find or access the tumors.
Increased expression of basic fibroblast growth factor in squamous carcinogenesis of the head and neck is less prevalent following smoking cessation.

Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), a potent angiogenic peptide, is thought to provide a growth advantage to a number of tumors including squamous cancer of the head and neck. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the in situ expression of bFGF in lesions of the upper aerodigestive tract (UADT) and to correlate that with clinical parameters and known risk factors for carcinoma. On surgical specimens from 52 patients, we used a colorimetric in situ hybridization assay to determine the expression of bFGF mRNA in normal and pathologic conditions commonly seen in squamous mucosa. The extent of reactivity for the bFGF transcript was recorded on a subjective scale from 1+ to 3+, based on the visual intensity of labeling. These findings were subsequently correlated with clinical data. Basic fibroblast growth factor mRNA was detected at low to moderate levels in all sections of normal mucosa, with no distinction between patients with or without squamous cancer. Inflamed mucosa had comparatively strong expression of bFGF mRNA. Among lesions implicated in the stepwise nature of squamous carcinogenesis, we found increases in bFGF expression that were most significant at the level of carcinoma in situ, persisting through the invasive and nodal metastatic stages of the disease ( P P = 0.02). We have established the expression of bFGF mRNA in normal, inflammatory, and neoplastic tissue within the UADT. Furthermore, we note for the first time that increased expression is associated with the acquisition of more aggressive biologic behavior in squamous carcinogenesis.
HSTNT LEVELS PREDICT NUMBER OF DISEASED VESSELS IN PATIENTS WITH SUSPECTED ACS

High sensitivity troponin T (hsTnT) has higher sensitivity than previous generation troponin (cTnT) for diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in emergency department (ED) but lower specifity. Our aim was to assess whether an association exists between hsTnT and number of vessels with
eCAM: An Emerging Linkage with Ethnopharmacology?

When thinking about congruence, several synonyms come to mind: similarity, correspondence, equivalence, resemblance, analogy, comparison; certainly the antonym: (dissimilarity) does not. So let us compare two relevant, seemingly parallel ideas, concepts especially in the discipline of integrative and complementary medicine. In recent discussions, it proved useful to examine in some depth, what may seem superficial but that probably represents a true and future linkage or congruence. A quick reading of published works does suggest congruence perhaps not immediate, but clearly interdependence and sometimes overlap. Perhaps for one of the two, they dig like an archeologist, discover like a paleontologist whereas the other reaps the harvest of those diggings and seeks to understand what all the pieces mean and how they fit together: one discovers shards, the other glues them together. And so it goes, ethnophamacology and evidence based approaches can link and share characteristics.
An ROC analysis of pain reactions in dysmenorrheic and nondysmenorrheic women

Reactions to radiant heat stimuli were measured in dysmenorrheic and nondysmenorrheic women across a 4-week period. (Dysmenorrhea is a condition in which pain accompanies menstruation.) Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve parameters were computed for each of the phases of the menstrual cycle. When painful stimuli were used, a group × phase interaction was found in the analysis on the d’e scores. Nondysmenorrheic women were found to vary cyclically in their ability to discriminate painful from nonpainful stimuli, whereas dysmenorrheic women showed consistent pain reactions throughout the whole cycle. Cyclic effects were not apparent in the analyses on the response criteria or in those on reactions to thermal stimuli. The results suggest that women who experience pain with menstruation differ from women who do not differ in their perception of pain across the menstrual cycle. The sensory differences between the groups of women were not characteristic of responses to thermal stimuli and were not accompanied by shifts in willingness to report pain. Biochemical differences between dysmenorrheic and nondysmenorrheic women are believed to be the cause of the differences in pain reactions across phase.
Toxin or medicine? Explanatory models of radon in Montana health mines.

Environmental protection and public health agencies in the United States and elsewhere label radioactive radon gas a toxic environmental hazard and a major cause of lung cancer. Paradoxically, in Europe and Japan radon gas is also used as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory, as one choice in the spectrum of conventional medical care. Although it is possible to find radon therapy in the United States, it exists only as an unconventional practice in Montana “radon health mines.” In this article, I examine the use of radon therapy by Americans despite intensive public health education media campaigns. Using the notion of explanatory models as an analytical framework, I argue that American health mine clients adjust or replace “toxic models” of radon with new kinds of explanatory models that allow radon to be redefined as a healing substance. The manner of this adjustment varies according to peoples' individual needs, their own preexisting cultural models and experiences, and their individual personalities; the source of authoritative knowledge accepted by each person is a strong influence. Through these altered explanatory models, mine clients are able to view their use of radon therapy as a rational course of action.
A New Symmetry Breaking Pattern for SO(10) and Proton Decay

Abstract We discuss a “new” pattern of symmetry breaking for SO(10) grand unified models in which SO(10) breaks to SU(5)' ×U(1) and then further breaks to SU(3) C ×SU(2) L ×U(1) at lower scale. In this pattern of breaking electric charge is not a generator of the SU(5)' group. The predictions for proton decay branching ratios are markedly different from those of the Georgi-Glashow SU(5) model.
State dependence of olfactory perception as a function of taste cortical inactivation

As anyone who has suffered through a head cold knows, food eaten when the olfactory system is impaired tastes 'wrong', an experience that leads many to conclude that taste stimuli are processed normally only when the olfactory system is unimpaired. Evidence that the taste system influences olfactory perception, however, has been vanishingly rare. We found just such an influence; if taste cortex was inactivated when an odor was first presented, later presentations were properly appreciated only if taste cortex was again inactivated.
GE: description of the NLTooLSET system as used for MUC-3

The GE NLTooLSET is a set of text interpretation tools designed to be easily adapted to new domains. This report summarizes the system and its performance on the MUC-3 task.
Finding the right job in clinical practice or academia: advice for young clinicians and investigators.

Over the many years of my academic career, I have often been consulted by cardiology and internal medicine trainees who are completing their education and who are now looking for the “right job” for the rest of their professional lives. I have tried to give them practical and, I hope, common-sense advice about their job searches and the negotiations that follow once they find the position that they desire. When I was asked to write this essay, my first thought was “I really don’t have that much to say about this topic.” In gathering my thoughts further, it seemed reasonable to explore the Internet for some concise and organized comments on the topic. I was pleasantly surprised when 2 Google searches on the topics “finding a job–general rules” and “finding a job–physician” produced a wealth of excellent articles with just the right amount of practical, common-sense recommendations. Thus, this article is based on my own experience over >3 decades in advising trainees about their job searches, along with material gleaned from my Internet search. The list of recommended reading at the end of this article contains the Web addresses of those sites that I found particularly helpful in defining this topic. The remarks in this article are organized around a number of simple strategy questions that, if followed in the order given, should assist any trainee in finding the right job. One of the wonderful things about a medical education is that it offers so many potential career paths: clinical investigation, basic science investigation, clinical practice (private or group practice), clinical practice combined with teaching, industry-related positions, hospital-based employment, and healthcare administration. Each of these paths can be followed at universities, private hospitals, government institutions, industry, and/or the armed services. This is the first thing that the physician seeking employment …
Forum77: An Analysis of an Online Health Forum Dedicated to Addiction Recovery

Prescription drug abuse is a pressing public health issue, and people who misuse prescription drugs are turning to online forums for help. Are such forums effective? We analyze the process of opioid withdrawal, recovery and relapse on Forum77, MedHelp.org's online health forum for substance abuse recovery. Applying Prochashka's Transtheoretical Model for behavior change, we develop a taxonomy describing phases of addiction expressed by Forum77 members. We examine activity and linguistic features across the phases USING, WITHDRAWING and RECOVERING. We train statistical classifiers to identify addiction phase, relapse and whether a user was RECOVERING at the time of her last post. Applying our classifiers to 2,848 users, we find that while almost 50% relapse, the prognosis for ending in RECOVERING is favorable. Supplementing our results with users' own accounts of their experiences, we discuss Forum77's efficacy and shortcomings, and implications for future technologies.
Progress on understanding chorus emissions from data of the electric and magnetic field instrument suite and integrated science (EMFISIS) on the Van Allen Probes

The physics of the creation, loss, and transport of radiation belt particles is intimately connected to the electric and magnetic fields which mediate these processes. A key wave-particle interaction important to both acceleration and loss in the radiation belts is the of whistler-mode chorus interacting with energetic electrons. To measure this important radiation belt interaction, the two-satellite Van Allen Probes mission utilizes one of the most complete sets of measurements ever made in the inner magnetosphere. As part of the mission, the Electric and Magnetic Field Instrument Suite and Integrated Science (EMFISIS) investigation is an integrated set of instruments consisting of a tri-axial fluxgate magnetometer (MAG) and a Waves instrument which includes a tri-axial search coil magnetometer (MSC). These wave measurements allow sophisticated diagnosis of a variety of features important for whistlermode chorus including wave normal direction, direct waveform capture of the full electric and magnetic vector fields to investigate individual chorus elements, and determination of the key background parameters of plasma density and background magnetic field. Examples are shown of these measurements as well as progress on understanding aspects of chorus emission such as the gap at one-half the electron cyclotron frequency, comparison with the electron measurements in the energy range important for generation of chorus emission, and comparison with electrons that are energized by chorus.
ILSim: a compact simulation tool for interferometric lithography

Interference imaging systems are being used more extensively for R&D applications where NA manipulation, polarization control, relative beam attenuation, and other parameters are explored and projection imaging approaches may not exist. To facilitate interferometric lithography research, we have developed a compact simulation tool, ILSim, for studying multi-beam interferometric imaging, including fluid immersion lithography. The simulator is based on full-vector interference theory, which allows for application at extremely high NA values, such as those projected for use with immersion lithography. In this paper, ILSim is demonstrated for use with two-beam and four-beam interferometric immersion lithography. The simulation tool was written with Matlab, where the thin film assembly (ambient, top coat, resist layer, BARC layers, and substrate) and illumination conditions (wavelength, polarization state, interference angle, demodulation, NA) can be defined. The light intensity distributions within the resist film for 1 exposure or 2-pass exposure are displayed in the graph window. It also can optimize BARC layer thickness and top coat thickness.© (2005) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The Anatomy of the Ribs and the Sternum and Their Relationship to Chest Wall Structure and Function

As with all parts of the body, the anatomy and physiology of the chest wall are intimately intertwined. To carry out the unique functions performed by the chest wall, the anatomic structures are formed precisely for maximal efficiency. This article focuses on the unique structural characteristics in the internal thoracic diameters. It discusses the specific anatomy of the ribs and costal cartilages, along with the sternum. How these parts interrelate through joints is described also. Finally, it describes the muscles that cause the motion in the chest wall.
Statistically Significant Differences between Standard Scores on the Woodcock Reading Mastery Tests-Revised.

Standard scores on the Woodcock Reading Mastery Tests—Revised may be used to diagnose strengths and weaknesses in reading achievement. However, decisions regarding discrepancies that are based on visual inspection are tenuous because apparent differences may be a function of the unreliability of the tests being compared. A table was produced to facilitate paired comparisons between Woodcock Reading Mastery Tests—Revised standard scores. Use of this table can assist in determining intra-individual strengths and weaknesses, and thus, contribute to instructional planning.
Is Burch or mid-urethral sling better with abdominal sacral colpopexy?

Introduction and hypothesis This study aims to compare the post-operative rates of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) after abdominal sacral colpopexy (ASC) with either Burch or mid-urethral sling, tension-free vaginal tape (TVT), or no anti-incontinence procedure. The null hypothesis was there would be no difference in SUI among groups.
Initial internal consistency evidence on the Daniel Memorial Independent Living Assessment: A research note

Abstract This study evaluated the internal consistency of the Daniel Memorial Independent Living Assessment (DMILA). This scale has been used extensively in the Independent Living (IL) intervention field with foster care youths across the U.S. in the last two decades. However, DMILA has unknown validity and reliability. The present study was based on a convenience sample and included 49 adults between the ages of 18 and 26 (mean age 20), who emancipated from Florida District 11's foster care system. Data were collected via a mailed survey that included the DMILA test and a pre-addressed, postage-paid envelope. Results suggest that the DMILA assessment has mediocre reliability, with its most consistent subscales being interpersonal skills, money management skills, job seeking skills, and job maintenance skills. Based on statistical item deletion analyses, specific recommendations are concluded for improving the internal consistency of the DMILA scale.
George Washington and the Building of the Constitution: Presidential Interpretation and Constitutional Development

As first president, George Washington was in an historically unique position to shape the forms and customs of the newly-ratified Federal Constitution. Unlike most previous accounts of his presidency that focus on Washington's symbolic contributions, this essay suggests that he had a very clear substantive constitutional agenda–an agenda which he consciously sought to shape. Specifically, Washington attempted to graft his own views of separation of powers, executive privilege, federalism, and the rule of law on to the Constitution. More of the “original formsrdquo; of the Constitution, then, bear Washington's distinctive mark than heretofore thought.
Encouraging the flight of error: Ethical standards, evidence standards, and randomized trials

Thomas Jefferson recognized the value of reason and scientific experimentation in the eighteenth century. This chapter extends the idea in contemporary ways to standards that may be used to judge the ethical propriety of randomized trials and the dependability of evidence on effects of social interventions.
Low temperature magnetic field modulation of delayed fluorescence in anthracene and naphthalene

Abstract The magnetic field modulation of delayed fluorescence in anthracene and naphthalene crystals at 60 K and lower has been measured. Resonances occur in field directions which most closely parallel the molecular axes. The resonance positions are insensitive to temperature and field intensity. The origin of these resonances is discussed.
Chemokine regulation of inflammatory-mediated nervous system diseases.

(1999). Chemokine regulation of inflammatory-mediated nervous system diseases. Journal of Neurovirology: Vol. 5, No. 1, pp. 1-2.
Surface Structure Determination of C(2×2) N2/Ni(100) and Low and Intermediate Coverages of Co/Cu(111) by Angle-Resolved Photoemission Fine Structure (Arpefs) Using Synchrotron Radiation

We have determined the adsorption site and interlayer spacings of c(2×2) N 2 /Ni(100),(√3 × √3)R30° and (1.5 × 1.5)R18° CO adsorbed on Cu(111), using ARPEFS and a full Multiple-Scattering, Spherical Wave (MSSW) calculation program. The nitrogen molecule stands upright at an atop site, with a N-Ni bond length of 2.25(1) A, a N-N bond length of 1.10(7) A, and a first layer Ni-Ni spacing of 1.76(4) A. The C-Cu bond length is 1.91 (1) A in the (√3 × √3)R30° phase and 1.91(2) A in the (1.5 × 1.5)R18° phase. The first layer Cu-Cu spacing is 2.07(3) A in the (√3 × √3)R30° phase. The first layer Cu-Cu spacing in the (1.5 × 1.5)R18° phase is 2.01(4) A, a contraction of 3 % from the clean metal value of 2.07 A.
Metabolic suppressors of a regulatory mutant in Neurospora.

The synthesis of a number of enzymes of sulfur assimilation in Neurospora crassa is controlled by the sulfur source. Mutants in one regulatory gene, cys-3, are unable to make any of the enzymes. This locus is thought to specify a macromolecule that is required for the expression of the structural genes. A mutant, sconc, of another regulatory gene is nonrepressible for the synthesis of the enzymes. We report here the isolation of suppressed sconc strains which are actually the double mutant, sconc,cys-3. These strains are phenotypically indistinguishable from single mutants at the cys-3 locus. Thus cys-3 is epistatic to sconc. Evidence that the expression of the cys-3 gene is itself controlled is also presented.
Studies on the in Vitro Interaction of Electrical Stimulation and Ca++ Movement in Sarcoplasmic Reticulum

Sarcoplasmic reticulum fragments (S.R.F.) were isolated from skeletal and heart muscles. These fragments were found to take up Ca++ very actively from media. When monophasic square waves were passed through the S.R.F. suspension, the Ca++ uptake by S.R.F. was decreased. When the suspension was stimulated electrically after the Ca++ was taken up by S.R.F., the initiation and the cessation of the stimulation were followed by the release and re-uptake of Ca++ by S.R.F., respectively. The degree of inhibition of the Ca++ uptake as well as of the Ca++ release by electrical stimulation was dependent on the voltage and the frequency of stimulation. The presence of inorganic phosphate or oxalate modified the influence of electrical stimulation on the release and the uptake of Ca++ by S.R.F. Attempts were made to observe the release of Ca++ by electrical stimulation from unfractionated sarcoplasmic reticulum remaining in myofibers, and the interaction of the released Ca++ with myofibrils in vitro. For this purpose, the glycerol-extracted fiber was selected as a muscle model, since it contains both sarcoplasmic reticulum and myofibrils. It was found that electrical stimulation of skeletal and heart glycerol-extracted fibers resulted in the contraction of fibers. It appeared that the contraction of glycerol fibers by electrical stimulation was caused by the Ca++ release from sarcoplasmic reticulum by stimulation.
Ionic conductivity in Li+-Na+ beta and beta″ alumina

Abstract In this paper we will report and discuss measurements of ionic conductivity in Li-exchanged Na + beta and beta″ alumina crystals. We will show that Li + beta alumina has one of the highest Li + conductivities reported in a solid, 2.7·10 −3 ohm −1 cm −1 at 25°C and that its activation energy is constant at 0.24eV between -80° and 400°C. We will also report a mixed alkali effect in Li + -Na + beta alumina; the room temperature resistivity and the activation energy both pass through maxima as the mobile ion content is varied from 100% Na + to 100% Li + . We will interpret this effect in terms of Hendrickson and Bray's (1) theory of the mixed alkali effect and the interstitialcy mechanism of conduction in beta alumina. We will discuss the crystal cracking observed in all Li-exchanged beta″ alumina crystals.
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA levels in palatine tonsils and autologous serum from EBV carriers.

A real-time polymerase chain reaction was employed to detect and quantitate Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA in tonsils and autologous sera from EBV-seropositive children. EBV DNA was found in 95% of tonsils from 21 children and in 50% from 18 children with serum IgG titers to the virus capsid antigen (VCA) of ≥1:160 and 1:10 to 1:80, respectively (P = 0.002). Tonsils from children with titers ≥1:160 harbored more EBV DNA copies per mg tissue (mean, 1,237; range, < 2–13,998) than from children with titers 1:10 to 1:80 (mean, 23; range, < 2–226; P < 0.0001). By contrast, EBV DNA was detected only in serum from 25% of 20 children with titers ≥ 1:160. Thus, ample differences in tonsillar EBV replication are mirrored inconstantly by detectable EBV in autologous serum suggesting that EBV DNA quantitation in tonsils may serve for refined monitoring of individuals at risk of EBV-associated lymphoproliferation. J. Med. Virol. 67:54–58, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Low-Energy Electron Transport by the Method of Discrete Ordinates

The one-dimensional discrete ordinates code ANISN has been adapted to simulate the transport of low-energy (on the order of a few MeV) electrons. Two different calculational techniques have been ut...
Response elimination: A comparison of four procedures

Abstract Four procedures for eliminating an operant response were compared within a multiple schedule. Response reduction was most rapid when reinforcement was provided for a specific alternative response. The decline in responding produced by extinction and differential reinforcement of other behavior was similar. Responding initially increased and then gradually decreased when reinforcers were delivered independently of responding at fixed times. Removal of reinforcement from the alternative-response and DRO procedures did not result in recovery of the target response. However, the shift from response-independent dilivery of reinforcers to extinction caused an initial increase in responding.
Damping in the calculation of polaron mobility

Damping in the form of complex frequencies is introduced into the expression for the mobility of a polaron derived by Feynman, Hellworth, Iddings and Platzman. To the system of electron plus lattice oscillators is added a suitable quantized heat sink to dampen the oscillations of the lattice. The calculation is found to call for the time evolution of the Heisenberg operators in the problem of a damped harmonic oscillator.
Studies of the neuronal transdifferentiation process in cultured human pheochromocytoma cells: effects of steroids with differing functional groups on catecholamine content and cell morphology

The neuronal differentiation of adrenal pheochromocytoma cells from human subjects was studied in vitro for periods of up to 65 days. Changes with time in culture were observed in both intracellular catecholamine content (progressive decreases in epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine, except for a possible transient early increase in the latter) and in morphology (increases in neurite outgrowth) of cells cultured in control medium; supplementation of cultures with nerve growth factor resulted in a substantial increase in neurite formation. The effects on these changes of the presence in the culture medium of various steroids were examined. The addition of 11-oxygenated steroids (aldosterone, corticosterone, cortisol, or dexamethasone) at 10−5 M concentrations caused at least 2.5-fold increases in mean intracellular dopamine and norepinephrine levels; with dexamethasone, 9–10-fold increases were observed. Intracellular epinephrine content was also enhanced by 11,17-oxygenated steroids (dexamethasone and cortisol), but not by the other 11-oxygenated compounds studied. These two 11,17-oxygenated glucocorticoids also inhibited the morphologic changes seen with extended periods in culture, decreasing the outgrowth of neurite projections and causing cells to attain a vacuolated and granular appearance; the presence of dexamethasone strongly inhibited the morphologic changes induced by nerve growth factor. 11-Deoxy steroid intermediates (pregnenolone, 11-deoxycorticosterone, and 11-deoxycortisol) had little or no effect on catecholamine content or on morphology. Preliminary observations suggest that C-18 and C-19 sex steroid hormones (17 β-estradiol and testosterone) may have morphologic effects opposite to those of the 11-oxygenated compounds, showing a slight stimulatory influence on the formation of neurite projections, but no significant effect on catecholamine content.
Affinity-labeling steroids as biologically active probes of antiglucocorticoid hormone action.

The role of the glucocorticoid receptor in the expression of antiglucocorticoid action has been investigated with a chemically-reactive derivative of three glucocorticoid steroids with differing biological potencies, i.e. the C-21 mesylates of cortisol, dexamethasone and deacylcortivazol. Dexamethasone 21-mesylate (Dex-Mes) was the most useful derivative due to its favorable balance of high receptor affinity and predominantly irreversible antiglucocorticoid activity. A number of criteria have been used to conclude that [3H]Dex-Mes covalently labels glucocorticoid receptors in the steroid-binding cavity. The available data indicate that covalent Dex-Mes-labeled receptors (mol. wt approximately equal to 98,000) are responsible for the irreversible antiglucocorticoid activity while the partial agonist activity of Dex-Mes is due to non-covalent Dex-Mes-bound receptors. Further support for this hypothesis comes from the observations that deacylcortivazol 21-mesylate was a full glucocorticoid and did not affinity label receptors (and marginally labeled cytosol proteins) although it was capable of covalently-labeling bovine serum albumin. Several mechanisms for the expression of irreversible antiglucocorticoid activity by covalent Dex-Mes-labeled receptors were examined and can be eliminated. Covalent receptor-Dex-Mes complexes formed in whole HTC cells were found to have a decreased capacity for nuclear binding. This decreased nuclear-binding capacity could be responsible for the whole-cell irreversible antiglucocorticoid activity of Dex-Mes.
Civil Non-State Actors in Peacekeeping and Peacebuilding in West Africa

This paper advances the notion of civil non-state actors in peacekeeping and peacebuilding. Using Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Cote d’Ivoire as cases studies, the paper identifies three kinds of civil non-state actors in war-torn countries: international non-governmental organizations (NGOs), community-based NGOs, and ad hoc community organizations. In addition, it argues that civil non-state actors play a critical problem-solving role in peacekeeping and peacebuilding and complement the role of state actors. The paper examines the role of civil non-state actors through their dialectical affinity with state actors in the peacekeeping and peacebuilding processes. It further expands the notion of non-state actors in peacekeeping and peacebuilding to encompass community-based NGOs and ad hoc community organizations. Moreover, it points to the positive role of civil non-state actors and the wide range of activities they perform, especially in peace mediation and post-war reconstruction.