cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Isolation of rodent pancreatic acinar cells and acini by collagenase digestion

Isolated pancreatic acini and acinar cells can be prepared from rat, mouse, and guinea pig pancreas using a collagenase digestion and used for studies of secretion, ligand binding, substrate uptake, protein synthesis and second messenger generation. Acinar size and integrity are highly dependent on the type of collagenase used and the application of shearing forces. After digestion acini can be purified away from ducts, islets and blood vessels by filtration and density sedimentation. This review describes the method used in our laboratory to isolate acini, variations in the method as used by others and ways of assessing the quality of the acinar preparation based on morphology and amylase secretion. Maintenance of acinar structure requires
Theoretical accuracy analysis of N-Ocular vision systems for scene reconstruction, motion estimation, and positioning

Theoretical models are derived to analyze the accuracy of N-Ocular vision systems for scene reconstruction, motion estimation and self positioning. Covariance matrices are given to estimate the uncertainty bounds for the reconstructed points in 3D space, motion parameters, and 3D position of the vision system. Simulation results of various experiments, based on synthetic and real data acquired with a 12-camera stereo panoramic imaging system, are given to demonstrate the application of these models, as well as to evaluate the performance of the panoramic system for high-precision 3D mapping and positioning.
Legal Publishing in Antebellum America: Birth of the Law Book Trade

GENERAL BOOKSELLERS From early in the colonial period, there were both lawyers and law books in North America. By the eighteenth century, the average American bookseller almost always carried among its general stock some law books. Of course, these were mainly books on English common law. We know from both catalogues of lawyers' libraries and booksellers' advertisements that it was far from impossible for an eighteenth-century lawyer to amass a good working law library in the major urban centers. Thomas Jefferson's library was one such in Virginia. Edwin Wolf, in his The Book Culture of a Colonial American City , has shown that eighteenth-century Philadelphia had an active, if somewhat small, law book trade. For the most part, our information about the size and scope of the law book trade in the period before the Revolution comes from newspaper advertisements and, in some cases, separately printed catalogues. These reveal that as the eighteenth century progressed, the number of law books being sold became significant. James White, who carried on a printing and bookselling business in Boston from 1778 until 1801, published a listing of law books he had for sale in the Independent Chronicle and Advertiser of 11 July 1799, a newspaper he published in 1799 and 1800. He listed eighty-two titles for sale. The vast majority of these were English reports and treatises, including two editions of Blackstone's Commentaries .
The role of gender as it relates to confidence among university outdoor programs’ staff

Historically the great outdoors has been considered a man's domain and thus males by extension are thought to be more confident than females. Lee (2001) suggested, that it is more difficult for women to feel confident when engaged in an activity seen to be inappropriate for their gender. Johnson (2003) observed that women typically do not perform well in ego-oriented environments, instead preferring task-oriented environments where the standards used are perceived as achievable regardless of gender. Dingle and Kiewa (2006) in a study of college students participating in an elective kayaking course, found the competitive kayaking culture provided a source of stress for women, many of whom felt uncomfortable performing in front of more skillful male peers. They also found that women sought a different teaching method than males instead seeking an instructor who was more aware of their fears and â€œnot just a good paddler.â€ Self-determination theory suggests that confidence is integral to intrinsic motivation with it being the most effective stimulant for continuing participation (Dingle & Kiewa, 2006). Fear, on the other hand, whether linked to failure or embarrassment, frequently leads to a destructive cycle of decreasing confidence. In sum, Dingle and Kiewa (2006) highlighted the potentially destructive nature of an ego-oriented learning environment for women.
A Latent Semantic Analysis-Based Approach to Geographic Feature Categorization from Text

Geographic feature categorization from text addresses the need for querying and finding geographic features from text documents. Although many text classification techniques have been developed, there are limitations to apply to geographic features due to the uniqueness of the geography features. In this paper we propose a method to classify geographic features based on latent semantic analysis and domain knowledge. The empirical experiment indicates that the proposed method achieves satisfactory categorizing effectiveness.
Inactivation of seed exudate stimulants of Pythium ultimum sporangium germination by biocontrol strains of Enterobacter cloacae and other seed-associated bacteria

Abstract Strains of Enterobacter cloacae and other seed-associated bacteria, effective in suppressing Pythium seed rot and damping-off, were tested for their ability to reduce the stimulatory activity (STA) of plant seed exudates to sporangia of the seed-rotting fungus, Pythium ultimum. Our results have shown that E. cloacae can utilize seed exudate from a number of plant species as a sole carbon and energy source and, at the same time, rapidly reduce the STA of exudate to P. ultimum sporangia. At higher cell densities of E. cloacae, the STA was inactivated more rapidly than at lower cell densities. Concentrates prepared from E. cloacae-treated exudate, when added to untreated exudate, did not reduce STA as compared with unamended exudate, indicating that sporangium germination inhibitors are not produced by E. cloacae during growth on cotton seed exudate. Bacteria, consisting largely of Pseudomonas species, were isolated from seeds of various plant species. Many of the seed-associated bacterial strains could reduce STA within 24 h to amounts supporting germination of less than 20% of P. ultimum sporangia. Four of 21 strains were as effective as E. cloacae strain EcCT-501 in reducing STA. When tested for their ability to inactivate STA of linoleic acid (a predominant stimulant found in cotton seed exudate), only one strain was as effective as E. cloacae strain EcCT-501. A positive correlation (correlation coefficient=0.507) was observed between levels of linoleic acid STA inactivation and of cotton seed exudate STA inactivation by seed-associated bacteria other than EcCT-501. Furthermore, a negative correlation (correlation coefficient=−0.423) was observed between the amounts of linoleic acid STA inactivation and seedling stands following seed treatment with these bacterial strains. However, a poor correlation (correlation coefficient=0.270) was found between the inactivation of exudate STA and seedling stands with seed-associated bacteria other than EcCT-501. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that E. cloacae strain EcCT-501 inactivates STA of seed exudates by metabolizing the active stimulatory molecules, including linoleic acid, present in the exudate and that this trait is important in biological control of Pythium seed rot by this strain. However, other traits may function among other genera and species of seed-associated bacteria
Enhancing system-wide power integrity in 3D ICs with power gating

Power gating is a commonly used method to reduce subthreshold leakage current in nanoscale technologies. In through silicon via (TSV) based three-dimensional (3D) integrated circuits (ICs), power gating can significantly degrade system-wide power integrity since the decoupling capacitance associated with the power gated block/plane becomes ineffective for neighboring active planes, as demonstrated in this paper. A reconfig-urable decoupling capacitor topology is investigated to alleviate this issue by exploiting the ability of via-last TSVs to bypass plane-level power networks when delivering the supply voltage. Reconfigurable decoupling capacitors placed within a plane can provide charge to neighboring planes even when the plane is power gated, thereby significantly reducing both RMS power supply noise (by up to 46%) and RMS power gating (in-rush current) noise (by up to 85%) at the expense of a slight increase in area (by 1.55%) and peak power consumption (by 1.36%).
TRPC3 channels are necessary for brain-derived neurotrophic factor to activate a nonselective cationic current and to induce dendritic spine formation

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) exerts prominent effects on hippocampal neurons, but the mechanisms that initiate its actions are poorly understood. We report here that BDNF evokes a slowly developing and sustained nonselective cationic current (IBDNF) in CA1 pyramidal neurons. These responses require phospholipase C, IP3 receptors, Ca2+ stores, and Ca2+ influx, suggesting the involvement of transient receptor potential canonical subfamily (TRPC) channels. Indeed, IBDNF is absent after small interfering RNA-mediated TRPC3 knockdown. The sustained kinetics of IBDNF appears to depend on phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-mediated TRPC3 membrane insertion, as shown by surface biotinylation assays. Slowly emerging membrane currents after theta burst stimulation are sensitive to the scavenger TrkB–IgG and TRPC inhibitors, suggesting IBDNF activation by evoked released of endogenous, native BDNF. Last, TRPC3 channels are necessary for BDNF to increase dendritic spine density. Thus, TRPC channels emerge as novel mediators of BDNF-mediated dendritic remodeling through the activation of a slowly developing and sustained membrane depolarization.
Cognitive anxiety as a function of speaker role for fluent speakers and persons who stutter

Abstract Fransella [Personal change and reconstruction. London: Academic Press] suggested that persons who stutter experience a lack of meaningfulness of their fluent speaker role and demonstrated that a Personal Construct Psychology approach to therapy with persons who stutter may be useful. Few studies, however, have investigated her claims. This study investigated the “meaningfulness” with which fluent and disfluent persons were able to construe themselves in stuttering and non-stuttering speaker roles. Results indicated that persons who stuttered displayed greater cognitive anxiety (difficulty integrating their experience meaningfully) in a fluent speaking role than in a stuttering role, whereas the reverse was found for fluent speakers. These results suggest the relevance of assessing and addressing the meaningfulness of the “dominant” disfluent speaker role in treating persons who stutter, insofar as a tendency to maintain the predictability of this familiar role may contribute to stuttering maintenance and relapse. The refined guidelines developed for applying the Cognitive Anxiety Scale to the content analysis of self-descriptions of persons who stutter can make a practical contribution to this effort. Educational objectives: The reader will learn about and be able to (1) describe the potential influence of speaker roles in the maintenance of stuttering; (2) define cognitive anxiety and how it relates to meaningful interpretations of experience; (3) detect potential signs that a person who stutters may be engaged in “defending” a stutterer role; and (4) describe the clinical implications of this view of stuttering maintenance.
The production of beta-glucuronidase and hyaluronidase by Streptococcus mitis.

Abstract 1. 1. Microorganisms, isolated from human saliva, carious dentine, and periodontal pockets, which produced both beta-glucuronidase and hyaluronidase were alpha hemolytic streptococci, Streptococcus mitis . 2. 2. The finding of three different strains of Streptococcus mitis is reported. 3. 3. Beta-glucuronidase and hyaluronidase titers from Streptococcus mitis were found to parallel one another. 4. 4. Beta-glucuronidase produced by Streptococcus mitis was found to be predominantly extracellular. 5. 5. Optimum conditions for the assay of beta-glucuronidase activity by Streptococcus mitis are described. 6. 6. The effect of sucrose in acid production on hyaluronidase and beta-glucuronidase activity by Streptococcus mitis was measured.
Epigenomic regulation of host–microbiota interactions

The trillions of beneficial commensal microorganisms that normally reside in the gastrointestinal tract have emerged as a critical source of environmentally-derived stimuli that can impact health and disease. However, the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms that recognize commensal bacteria-derived signals and regulate mammalian homeostasis are just beginning to be defined. Highly coordinated epigenomic modifications allow mammals to alter the transcriptional program of a cell in response to environmental cues. These modifications may play a key role in regulating the dynamic relationship between mammals and their microbiota. We review recent advances in understanding the interplay between the microbiota and mammalian epigenomic pathways, and highlight emerging findings that implicate a central role for histone deacetylases (HDACs) in orchestrating host–microbiota interactions.
Invasive micropapillary carcinoma of the breast: A prognostic study☆

Invasive micropapillary carcinoma (IMC) of the breast is a rare variant of infiltrating ductal carcinoma that has been associated with an extremely high incidence of lymph node metastases. Follow-up studies on patients with pure IMC breast cancer histology have been limited by low patient numbers, short duration of follow-up, and a lack of multivariate analyses. Using invasive breast cancers from 1,287 patients (median follow-up, 13.8 years), histological review showed 21 cases (1.7%) with pure IMC histology. Pure IMC histology was associated with high-grade histology (P = .04), metastases to regional lymph nodes (P < .001), a high mitotic index (P = .02), and erbB-2 immunopositivity (P = .007). Univariate analyses showed a strong association between IMC histology and shortened survival (disease-free survival [DFS], P = .0052; median, 44 months for IMC and 63 months for non-IMC; disease-specific survival [DSS], P = .014; medians, 71 and 78 for IMC and non-IMC, respectively) only in an analysis of all patients. Because only 1 case of node-negative IMC histology was available, univariate analysis of IMC histology was performed only on node-positive patients without significance. Multivariate analyses comparing IMC histology with either node-positive or all other breast cancers failed to show independent prognostic significance. In summary, breast cancer patients with pure IMC histology showed survival rates similar to those of other patients with equivalent numbers of lymph node metastases.
Absorption and tissue concentrations of vitamin B12 in obese rats.

SummaryRats made obese by feeding high fat diet had more Vit. B12 in the liver and higher plasma Vit. B12 levels than control lean rats receiving same concentration of Vit. B12 in low fat diet. The obese rats absorbed more of orally administered radioactive Vit. B12 than the controls. The increased absorption in obese rats, however, was not directly due to high percentage of fat in the diet and would therefore be accounted for by obesity. The possible involvement of this vitamin in lipid metabolism as based on these findings has been discussed.
Direct Scouring of Greige Cotton Fabrics with Proteases

Our previous work demonstrated that proteases are effective scouring agents for boiling-water pretreated cotton fabrics. In this study, we investigate whether proteases are effective scouring agent...
Contact angles of drops on curved superhydrophobic surfaces.

Abstract Superhydrophobic surfaces have contact angles that exceed 150 degrees and are known to reduce surface fouling, protect surfaces, and improve liquid–liquid separations. Electrospun sub-micron fiber mats can perform as superhydrophobic surfaces. Superhydrophobic behavior is typically measured on planar surfaces, whereas applications may require curved surfaces. This paper discuses the measurement of water contact angles of fiber mats formed on cylindrical surfaces to create superhydrophobic behavior on curved surfaces. Equations are derived that relate the radius of curvature of spherical and cylindrical surfaces and drop size to the observed contact angle on the curved surfaces. Calculations from the equations agree well with experimental observations on spherical surfaces reported in literature and on cylindrical surfaces created in our lab.
Theory & Methods: Bias due to Ignoring the Sample Design in Case–Control Studies

Case–control studies allow efficient estimation of the associations of covariates with a binary response in settings where the probability of a positive response is small. It is well known that covariate–response associations can be consistently estimated using a logistic model by acting as if the case–control (retrospective) data were prospective, and that this result does not hold for other binary regression models. However, in practice an investigator may be interested in fitting a non–logistic link binary regression model and this paper examines the magnitude of the bias resulting from ignoring the case–control sample design with such models. The paper presents an approximation to the magnitude of this bias in terms of the sampling rates of cases and controls, as well as simulation results that show that the bias can be substantial.
Endoscopic Management of Esophageal Cancer After Definitive Chemoradiotherapy

Concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is a potentially curative non-surgical option for locally advanced esophageal cancer, with pathological complete response (CR) ranging from 13 to 49 %. The rate of persistent and recurrent disease within the esophagus remains high at 40–60 %, and treatment of these tumors may improve disease-free survival. The aim of this review is to assess the efficacy of salvage endoscopic therapies for recurrent esophageal cancer. Medline and Embase were searched for relevant studies published in the English-language literature that reported use of endoscopic modalities, including photodynamic therapy (PDT), endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), and spray cryotherapy, as salvage therapies for esophageal cancer. A total of 12 studies were identified. In small case series of PDT, CR varied from 20 to 100 %, with 1-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival rates of 65–80, 34–47, and 36 %, respectively. Data from three studies of EMR in squamous cell cancer show CR in 50 % of cases, with 3- and 5-year overall survival of 56–81 and 49 %, respectively. Endoscopic spray cryotherapy has recently been used in this setting with an observed CR of 37.5 %. Endoscopic salvage therapies are options for those patients with disease limited to the superficial esophageal wall and those who are unfit to undergo salvage esophagectomy. Widespread application of endoscopic salvage therapies is limited by the lack of awareness and guidelines for endoscopic surveillance post-CRT and limited data on the effectiveness of endoscopic therapies.
ERK acts in parallel to PKCδ to mediate the connexin43-dependent potentiation of Runx2 activity by FGF2 in MC3T3 osteoblasts

The gap junction protein, connexin43 (Cx43), plays an important role in skeletal biology. Previously, we have shown that Cx43 can enhance the signaling and transcriptional response to fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) in osteoblasts by increasing protein kinase C-δ (PKCδ) activation to affect Runx2 activity. In the present study, we show by luciferase reporter assays that the ERK signaling cascade acts in parallel to PKCδ to modulate Runx2 activity downstream of the Cx43-dependent amplification of FGF2 signaling. The PKCδ-independent activation of ERK by FGF2 was confirmed by Western blotting, as was the Cx43-dependent enhancement of ERK activation. Consistent with our prior observations for PKCδ, flow cytometry analyses show that Cx43 overexpression enhances the percentage of phospho-ERK-positive cells in response to FGF2, supporting the notion that shared signals among gap junction-coupled cells result in the enhanced response to FGF2. Western blots and luciferase reporter assays performed on osteoblasts cultured under low-density and high-density conditions revealed that cell-cell contacts are required for Cx43 to amplify ERK activation and gene transcription. Similarly, inhibition of gap junctional communication with the channel blocker 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid attenuates the Cx43-dependent enhancement of Runx2-transcriptional activity. In total, these data underscore the importance of cell-cell communication and activation of the ERK and PKCδ pathways in the coordination of the osteoblast response to FGF2 among populations of osteoblasts.
Theory and experimental results on gravitational effects on monocellular algae.

Abstract The orientation of a body which has an anisotropic distribution of mass and which is suspended in water is biased by gravitational torque, so that the center of gravity lies below the center of buoyancy. Many species of unicellular swimming algae are gravitationally oriented in this manner. Their axis of propulsion is essentially fixed within their bodies, so that when the cells swim, they swim upwards. Gravitaxis is an exotaxis, which requires no sensory processing. Nevertheless, gravity affects the lives of these cells both individually and collectively. For single cells, gravity intervenes in the execution and mechanism of sense-dependent taxes, such as phototaxis, it provides for fail-safe locomotion toward the upper interface of their habitat, the source of light and air, and it may cause up-accumulation. Populations of single cells, swimming in the presence of gravity, are coupled through fluid- mechanical interactions which cause spatial and temporal patterns of fluid convection and cell concentration. These patterns modify the cell's environmental interactions, by facilitating downward migrations of cell populations, by mixing the embedding fluid and its contents, and by providing a collective mechanism for controlling light intensity at the individual cell level. Summarizing, gravity modulates the interaction of algal cells with each other and with their environment.
A first generation numerical geomagnetic storm prediction scheme

Abstract Geomagnetic and auroral disturbances cause significant interference on many electrical systems. Therefore, it is essential to develop a reliable geomagnetic and auroral storm prediction scheme. Present geomagnetic storm prediction schemes rely entirely on statistical results, so that they can hardly provide quantitative information on the intensity of a geomagnetic storm caused by a particular solar event. It is for this reason that we have been developing a first generation numerical prediction scheme. The scheme consists of two major computer codes which in turn consist of a large number of subroutine codes and of empirical relationships. First of all, when a solar flare occurs, six flare parameters are determined as the input data set for the first code which is devised to show the simulated propagation of solar wind disturbances in the heliosphere to a distance of 2 a.u. Thus, one can determine the relative location of the propagating disturbances with the Earth's position. The solar wind speed ( V ) and the three interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) components ( B x , B y , B z , or B , 0, φ) are then computed as a function of time at the Earth location or any other desired (space probe) locations. These quantities in turn become the input parameters for the second major code which computes first the power (ϵ) of the solar wind-magnetosphere dynamo as a function of time. The power thus obtained and the three IMF components can be used to compute or infer: (i), the predicted geometry of the auroral oval; (ii), the cross-polar cap potential; (iii), the two geomagnetic indices AE and Dst ; (iv), the total energy injection rate into the polar ionosphere; (v), the atmospheric temperature, etc. At the present time, the weakest part of the scheme arises from the fact that causes of changes of the IMF B z (or θ) component are not well understood. Further, several empirical relationships are incorporated in the present scheme in the second major code. Thus, there are still a number of solar and geomagnetic storm features which require theoretical studies and proper modeling efforts to eventually replace the empirical relationships by theoretical ones, as our understanding of solar-terrestrial physics advances.
Evaluation of the Corrosivity of Smoke Using a Laboratory Radiant Combustion Exposure Apparatus

A laboratory radiant combustion/exposure apparatus is being used to evaluate the corrosion of copper test probes due to smoke from burning polymers. This apparatus, which is under consideration as an ASTM standard test method, was developed at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) under contract to the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS). Although it was designed for smoke toxicity studies, the significant features of the device make it equally suitable for smoke toxicity and for smoke corrosivity investigations. The ever-increasing uses of computers and other electrical and electronic equipment have made the subject of smoke corrosivity an important one. A relatively small fire could potentially cause corrosion that would cost much more money than the actual fire damage. The increasing dependence on automation makes it even more urgent that the topic of corrosion due to smoke atmospheres be understood. Small specimens are burned under controlled radiant combustion conditions, and the smoke is captured in an enclosed volume. Copper resistance probes are used to evaluate the corrosive properties of the smoke. Some of the variables that are still under consideration in the development of a standard test method include the following: the heat flux level, specimen size, and duration of combustion; the corrosion probe, its location and orientation; atmospheric conditions such as humidity, and exposure and post-exposure duration. The results from this test method will be valuable in the assessment of the fire hazard of products in use.
Threat Without Efficacy? Climate Change on U.S. Network News

This study investigates how U.S. network television news stories have conveyed threat and efficacy information about climate change, both directly and indirectly, through the discussion and framing of climate change impacts and actions. Results show that while impacts and actions are discussed independently in a majority of broadcasts, they are rarely discussed in the same broadcast. Moreover, while news coverage frequently conveys the threat of climate change, it provides an inconsistent efficacy message, often including both positive and negative efficacy cues. Finally, impacts are framed primarily in terms of environmental consequences, whereas actions are framed in terms of political conflict.
The cotranslational function of ribosome-associated Hsp70 in eukaryotic protein homeostasis.

SUMMARY In eukaryotic cells a molecular chaperone network associates with translating ribosomes, assisting the maturation of emerging nascent polypeptides. Hsp70 is perhaps the major eukaryotic ribosomeassociated chaperone and the first reported to bind cotranslationally to nascent chains. However, little is known about the underlying principles and function of this interaction. Here, we use a sensitive and global approach to define the cotranslational substrate specificity of the yeast Hsp70 SSB. We find that SSB binds to a subset of nascent polypeptides whose intrinsic properties and slow translation rates hinder efficient cotranslational folding. The SSBribosome cycle and substrate recognition is modulated by its ribosome-bound cochaperone, RAC. Deletion of SSB leads to widespread aggregation of newly synthesized polypeptides. Thus, cotranslationally acting Hsp70 meets the challenge of folding the eukaryotic proteome by stabilizing its longer, more slowly translated, and aggregation-prone nascent polypeptides.
Differential distribution of γδT-cell receptor lymphocyte subpopulations in blood and spleen of young and adult cattle

A panel of monoclonal antibodies to bovine leukocyte differentiation molecules was used to evaluate peripheral blood and splenic lymphocytes from cattle of various ages. The major population of peripheral blood lymphocytes from neonatal calves was gamma delta T-cell receptor (TCR1) positive, as determined by TCR1-N12 expression. TCR1-N12+ lymphocytes were decreased in number in older calves, and were lowest in adult cattle. The major subpopulation of TCR1-N12+ cells from peripheral blood coexpressed WC1, but not BoCD2. A small subpopulation of peripheral blood TCR1-N12+ cells from cattle of all ages coexpressed BoCD2, but not WC1. The TCR1-N12+ BoCD2+ lymphocytes made up the largest TCR1-N12+ lymphocyte subpopulation in spleens of both calves and adults. The TCR1-N12+WC1+ splenic lymphocytes were present as a small population. The data indicate that two subpopulations of TCR1+ lymphocytes are present in cattle of all ages. These two subpopulations are differentially distributed between blood and spleen, with TCR1-N12+WC1+ lymphocytes predominating in blood, and TCR1-N12+BoCD2+ cells predominating in spleen.
Premorbid cognitive deficits in young relatives of schizophrenia patients.

Neurocognitive deficits in schizophrenia are thought to be stable trait markers that predate the illness and manifest in relatives of patients. Adolescence is the age of maximum vulnerability to the onset of schizophrenia and may be an opportune “window” to observe neurocognitive impairments close to but prior to the onset of psychosis. We reviewed the extant studies assessing neurocognitive deficits in young relatives at high risk (HR) for schizophrenia and their relation to brain structural alterations. We also provide some additional data pertaining to the relation of these deficits to psychopathology and brain structural alterations from the Pittsburgh Risk Evaluation Program (PREP). Cognitive deficits are noted in the HR population, which are more severe in first-degree relatives compared to second-degree relatives and primarily involve psychomotor speed, memory, attention, reasoning, and social-cognition. Reduced general intelligence is also noted, although its relationship to these specific domains is underexplored. Premorbid cognitive deficits may be related to brain structural and functional abnormalities, underlining the neurobiological basis of this illness. Cognitive impairments might predict later emergence of psychopathology in at-risk subjects and may be targets of early remediation and preventive strategies. Although evidence for neurocognitive deficits in young relatives abounds, further studies on their structural underpinnings and on their candidate status as endophenotypes are needed.
Adrenergic innervation of the tibial and vagus nerves in rats of different ages.

Abstract Adrenergic nerve fibers innervatng blood vessels in the epi-perineurium and endoneurium of the tibial and vagus nerves of male Fischer-344 rats of different ages were examined using formaldehyde-induced fluorescence technique and fluorescence microscopy. Between 6 and 24 months of age, no significant difference in the mean density of perivascular innervation in the epi-perineurium of the nerves was found, whereas between 24 months and 30 months the density decreased in both nerve types. The intensity of noradrenaline fluorescence of nerve fibers also was decreased in the oldest age group. In the endoneurium, the density of adrenergic nerve fibers was reduced by 57% at 24 months, and by more than 98% at 30 months as compared with 18 months. Age-related differences were similar in the tibial and vagus nerves. The results suggest that adrenergic neuronal control of the microcirculation in the rat tibial and vagus nerves is lost during aging as it is in other organs of the cardiovascular system.
High-temperature failure of a cast soot blower lance tube nozzle

A cast stainless steel lance tube nozzle failed prematurely in a brittle manner after one to two years of service. Metallographic examination of the nozzle revealed a Widmanstatten structure, likely resulting from the precipitation of sigma phase. The presence of this structure suggests that the component was exposed to temperatures beyond the specified operating range.
Buoyancy-driven instability in a vertical cylinder - Binary fluids with Soret effect

Buovancy-driven instability of a monocomponent or binarv fluid which is completely contained in a vertical circular cylinder is investigated. including the influence of the Soret effect for t,he binary mixture. The Boussinesq approximation is used, and the resulting linear stability problem is solved using Galerkin's technique. The analysis considers various types of fluid mixtures, ranging from gases to liquid metals, in cylinders with a variety of radius-to-height ratios. The flow structure is found to depend stronglv on both the cylinder aspect ratio and the magnitude of the Soret effect. Comparisons are made with experiments and other theories, and the predicted stability limits are shown to agree closely with observations.
Effect of Proportion of Concentrates in Herd Ration on Lactation Curves

The proportion of net energy in the herd's ration derived from concentrates as reported to Dairy Herd Improvement was the basis for defining five groups of milk production records from New York and New England. The relative daily milk production by season and stage of lactation was estimated for each group at two ages by a generalized least squares procedure. These solutions showed little variation due to the grouping by proportion of concentrates, but season of freshening and age were important. The mean yield did increase with an increasing proportion of concentrates, and, consequently, extension factors would differ by group due to these different means.
Paths to energy efficient ICs

IC power consumption is not only a thermal management challenge but also responsible for a few percent of world electricity usage while expected to grow fast. Reducing power usage is basically about reducing fCV DD 2. SOI may play a significant role.
On-line sulfur determination in coal with prompt gamma neutron activation

Abstract The prompt gamma neutron activation method has been found to be a useful technique for the on-line industrial measurements of bulk media. Based on this method, a system was developed for the on-line sulfur determination in coal. A 252Cf source is used for the production of neutrons and a high purity germanium (HPGe) detector is used for the detection of the gamma rays emitted. The system has been found to be linear over the range tested (0.5–6% in weight sulfur). Neutron-absorbing trace elements in coal such as Cl, were found to have no influence on the sulfur determination of the samples.
Determination of concentration of surface states at the illuminated semiconductor—electrolyte interface

Abstract Surface states at the semiconductor—electrolyte interface under illumination have been determined. The faradaic reaction involved at the (CdTe and GaP) interface is the photo-electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide to carbon monoxide in dimethylformamide—water mixtures. A new equivalent circuit has been proposed to account for the impedance data. Surface states act as faradaic mediators for the reduction of carbon dioxide. Surface state density at a given bias potential has been calculated to be of the order of 1014 cm−2. Adsorbed ions induce surface states. Surface state density induced by tetraalkylammonium ions decrease with increase of alkyl chain length. The number of surface states increases with water concentration. The resistance for the surface states in the Tafel region is larger than the resistance of those in the space—charge region indicating that the rate determining step lies on the solution side of the interface. However, in the limiting current density region, the space charge resistance is larger than the surface state resistance.
Goiter formation as a result of therapy with phenylbutazone and vitamin A.

ABSTRACT The development of a nontoxic goiter in a man who has psoriatic arthritis is reported. The goiter was reversible and was related to his therapy. It did not develop while he received either phenylbutazone or vitamin A individually, but occurred during each of 2 periods during which both drugs were administered. No effect on thyroid size or function was observed in 2 other men who received the combination of phenylbutazone and vitamin A in the same dosage as the patient and for a similar period of time. Therefore, it seems likely that not only the combined action of these two drugs, both of which are known to interfere with thyroid function, is necessary for goiter formation, but also an idiosyncrasy of unknown basis.
Energy efficiency: Teaching for accreditation, ethics, and technology

Increased energy demand in IT is growing rapidly as the world becomes more industrialized. Projections show that IT growth will continue to increase, with annual network growth at 45%. Increasing worldwide energy demands results in an increase in both costs and climate change. Using the energy efficiency topic, we address 5+ ABET learning outcomes, including ethics and local/global impact. One learning goal of this section is for students to learn what constitutes sound ethical reasoning and what does not (e.g. egoism). Another goal is to categorize the social implications of the technology into spheres of concern (local/national/global) and basic ethical theories (virtue/deontology/consequentialism). One of the best ways to teach ethics is to engage the students in identifying the ethical perspectives in use. We have created a table of justifications for energy efficiency and categorized them by ethical theory. Our main source for these reasons is Hot, Flat, and Crowded, by Thomas L. Friedman. For homework, students write a paper that includes both a technical and societal/ethical component to it.
Oxalate absorption and endogenous oxalate synthesis from ascorbate in calcium oxalate stone formers and non-stone formers

● Background: Increased rates of either oxalate absorption or endogenous oxalate synthesis can contribute to hyperoxaluria, a primary risk factor for the formation of calcium oxalate– containing kidney stones. This study involves a comparative assessment of oxalate absorption and endogenous oxalate synthesis in subpopulations of stone formers (SFs) and non–stone formers (NSFs) and an assessment of the effect of ascorbate supplementation on oxalate absorption and endogenous oxalate synthesis. Methods: Twenty-nine individuals with a history of calcium oxalate kidney stones (19 men, 10 women) and 19 age-matched NSFs (8 men, 11 women) participated in two 6-day controlled feeding experimental periods: ascorbate-supplement (2 g/d) and no-supplement treatments. An oxalate load consisting of 118 mg of unlabeled oxalate and 18 mg of 13 C2-oxalic acid was administered the morning of day 6 of each experimental period. Results: Mean 13 C2-oxalic acid absorption averaged across the ascorbate and no-supplement treatments was significantly greater in SFs (9.9%) than NSFs (8.0%). SFs also had significantly greater 24-hour post– oxalate load urinary total oxalate and endogenous oxalate levels with both treatments. Twenty-four– hour urinary total oxalate level correlated strongly with both 13 C2-oxalic acid absorption (SFs, r 0.76; P < 0.01; NSFs, r 0.62; P < 0.01) and endogenous oxalate synthesis (SFs, r 0.95; P < 0.01; NSFs, r 0.92; P < 0.01). Conclusion: SFs are characterized by greater rates of both oxalate absorption and endogenous oxalate synthesis, and both these factors contribute to the hyperoxaluric state. The finding that ascorbate supplementation increased urinary total and endogenous oxalate levels suggested that this practice is a risk factor for individuals predisposed to kidney stones. Am J Kidney Dis 44:1060-1069. © 2004 by the National Kidney Foundation, Inc.
External financing for Korea: The next phase

Abstract This paper suggests that future external finance arrangements for Korea will exhibit increasing reliance on securitized instruments (bonds and equity) in preference to loans. Such a shift in the composition of financing is warranted by the evolution of Korea's needs, constraints and opportunities as reflected in such ongoing or anticipated developments as: the vulnerability to external trade and finance shocks, the gradual disengagement of government from financial, trade and industrial intervention, the substantial improvement in competitiveness arising from the realignment of OECD exchange rates and the associated improvement in Korea's credit- worthiness, and changing lender preferences as expressed in the trend towards securitization in international finance markets.
Design Of An Infrared Interferometer

The increased demand for large, aspheric, optical components requires an interferometer that can accurately measure phase errors during the fabrication process. To meet this need, a phase-shifting infrared interferometer is being developed. This paper describes the design of the interferometer head.
A People and its Soldiers: The American Citizen as Soldier, 1775–1861

Military service was the vehicle by which American soldiers from the War of Independence through the Civil War demonstrated and defined their beliefs about the nature of American republicanism and how they, as citizens and soldiers, were participants in the republican experiment. This military ethos of republicanism, an ideology that was both derivative and representative of the larger body of American political beliefs and culture, illustrates American soldiers’ faith in an inseparable connection between bearing arms on behalf of the United States and holding citizenship in it. Patterns of thought and behavior within the ethos were not exclusively military traits, but were characteristic of the larger patterns within American political culture.
Study of memory partitioning for multiprogramming systems with virtual memory

In this paper, we investigate the effect that the shape of the lifetime function has on the optimal partition of the main memory of a computer among N programs, where the criterion of optimality is maximization of CPU utilization. We used a simple queuing model as a base for understanding this interrelationship. The lifetime function is the average of the execution intervals of a program as a function of the amount of memory allocated. When the lifetime function is convex and is proportional to mα, where m is the size of memory, then the optimal partition is obtained by dividing the main memory equally among q of the N programs (q is the optimal degree of multiprogramming). Thus, the best partition is always one of two policies: allocate all memory equally among the q programs or allocate all memory to one program. When the lifetime function has a degenerate S shape (is proportional to mα when m ≤ m0; and remains constant beyond m0), then there exists a memory size m such that no program can have a memory size other than m or m0; if any program has a memory size greater than m0, each other program should have a memory size that is equal to or greater than m0.
Volume Rendering Phenotype Differences in Mouse Placenta Microscopy Data

The authors examine phenotype differences in wildtype and retinoblastoma (Rb) knockout specimens of mouse placenta. Their method for volume visualization of tissue-level intermixing at a microscopic scale reveals differences between the specimens that aren't obvious in a stack of 2D images alone
Column studies on BTEX biodegradation under microaerophilic and denitrifying conditions

Abstract Two column tests were conducted using aquifer material to simulate the nitrate field demonstration project carried out earlier at Traverse City, Michigan. The objectives were to better define the effect nitrate addition had on biodegradation of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylenes, and trimethylbenzenes (BTEX) in the field study, and to determine whether BTEX removal can be enhanced by supplying a limited amount of oxygen as a supplemental electron acceptor. Columns were operated using limited oxygen, limited oxygen plus nitrate, and nitrate alone. In the first column study, benzene was generally recalcitrant compared to the alkylbenzenes (TEX), although some removal did occur. The average benzene breakthroughs were 74.3 ± 5.8%, 75.9 ± 12.1%, and 63.1 ± 9.6% in the columns with limited oxygen, limited oxygen plus nitrate, and nitrate alone, respectively, whereas the corresponding average effluent TEX breakthroughs were 22.9 ± 2.3%, 2.9 ± 1.1%, and 4.3 ± 3.3%. In the second column study, nitrate was deleted from the feed to the column originally receiving nitrate alone and added to the feed of the column originally receiving limited oxygen alone. Benzene breakthrough was similar for each column. Breakthrough of TEX decreased by an order of magnitude once nitrate was added to the microaerophilic column, whereas TEX breakthrough increased by 50-fold once nitrate was removed from the denitrifying column. Although the requirement for nitrate for optimum TEX removal was clearly demonstrated in these columns, there were significant contributions by biotic and abiotic processes other than denitrification which could not be quantified.
Couple corrosion among alloys for skeletal prostheses

Using a metallographic technique to identify and count corrosion pits, the tendency for passive film breakdown has been studied under conditions that simulate a crevice and a combination of two different materials. Potential corrosion couples were formed among: 316L stainless steel, cast CoCrMo alloy, wrought CoCrWNi alloy, Ti–6% Al–4% V alloy, a CoNiCrMo (multiphase) alloy and graphite. Only 316L stainless steel seems significantly prone to pitting corrosion in a crevice condition. Dissimilar metals in the crevice configuration did not seem to accelerate the corrosion of stainless steel.
Epigenetics in human autoimmunity: (Epigenetics in autoimmunity—DNA methylation in systemic lupus erythematosus and beyond)

Epigenetic mechanisms are essential for normal development and function of the immune system. Similarly, a failure to maintain epigenetic homeostasis in the immune response due to factors including environmental influences, leads to aberrant gene expression, contributing to immune dysfunction and in some cases the development of autoimmunity in genetically predisposed individuals. This is exemplified by systemic lupus erythematosus, where environmentally induced epigenetic changes contribute to disease pathogenesis in those genetically predisposed. Similar interactions between genetically determined susceptibility and environmental factors are implicated in other systemic autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and scleroderma, as well as in organ specific autoimmunity. The skin is exposed to a wide variety of environmental agents, including UV radiation, and is prone to the development of autoimmune conditions such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and some forms of vitiligo, depending on environmental and genetic influences. Herein we review how disruption of epigenetic mechanisms can alter immune function using lupus as an example, and summarize how similar mechanisms may contribute to other human autoimmune rheumatic and skin diseases.