cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Progress in Developing the 2nd Generation Adaptive Optics Scanning Laser Ophthalmoscope (AOSLO)

We present the compact optical system design, optimal photon detection, low coherence light source and pseudo-video signal conditioning technique. We introduce the MEMS deformable mirror based adaptive optics in the new instrument.
Proton capture cross section of 7Be and the flux of high energy solar neutrinos

The low energy cross section for the 7Be(p, γ)8B reaction has been measured by detecting the delayed α particles from the 8B beta decay. Detailed discussion is presented of the analysis of the radioactive 7Be target including the use of two independent methods to determine the 7Be areal density. The direct capture part of the cross section is subtracted from the total cross section to deduce resonance parameters for the 1+ first excited state in 8B. The zero-energy astrophysical S factor inferred from the present experiment is compared with previous values. The effect on the 37Cl solar neutrino capture rate, predicted by the standard solar model, is also discussed.
Effects of bunamidine on the isolated perfused rat heart.

Abstract 1. 1. Bunamidine caused a dose-dependent decrease in spontaneous heart rate, coronary flow and isometric systolic tension, but increased diastolic tension at 10,000 ng/ml. 2. 2. Bunamidine altered electrical activity by prolonging PR, QRS and QT intervals. It also produced partial heart block and ventricular standstill. 3. 3. Bunamidine diminished cardiac glycogen, ATP and creatine phosphate and increased tissue content of d -glucose-6-phosphate, l -(−)-glycerol-1-phosphate and lactate. Conversion of phosphorylase b to a was increased. 4. 4. The increase in phosphorylase a activity and isometric systolic tension caused by epinephrine (0.5 μg) was the same in control and bunamidine-perfused hearts.
New compactifications of ten- and eleven-dimensional supergravity on manifolds which are not direct products

Solutions of ten and eleven dimensional supergravity are presented for which the space-time metric is a product of an anti-de Sitter metric and a strictly positive scalar function of the internal coordinates. The critical point of the potential of seven dimensional maximal supergravity with SO(4) symmetry is identified with such a solution.
Rehabilitation Considerations for the Older Adult with Heart Failure: A Review of the Literature

Affecting more than 5.1 million Americans in 2013, heart failure (HF) is a debilitating syndrome that causes dyspnea, reduced exercise tolerance, fatigue, and diminished quality of life. Most commonly diagnosed in individuals over 65 years of age, the prevalence of HF and its associated health care costs are expected to grow significantly. Aerobic exercise, resistance training, and inspiratory muscle training (IMT) are interventions that are currently used in the treatment of older adults with HF. A literature search was conducted for meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and large randomized control trials to evaluate the effect of aerobic exercise, resistance training, and IMT interventions on exercise tolerance and quality of life in individuals with HF. Overall, aerobic exercise, resistance training, and IMT appear to be safe and effective in appropriately selected individuals for improving exercise tolerance and quality of life in individuals with HF. The benefits of resistance training in isolation are not clear.
Light-induced self-assembly of nanofibers inside liposomes

Spatially confined self-assembly of peptide amphiphile nanofibers inside liposomes is triggered by light.
Near term mitigation policy for global change under uncertainty: Minimizing the expected cost of meeting unknown concentration thresholds

An aggregate integrated assessment model is used to investigate the relative merits of hedging over the near term against the chance that atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide will be limited as a matter of global policy. Hedging strategies are evaluated given near term uncertainty about the targeted level of limited concentrationsand the trajectory of future carbon emissions. All uncertainty is resolved in the year 2020, and strategies that minimize the expected discounted value of the long term cost of abatement, including the extra cost of adjusting downstream to meet unexpected concentration limits along unanticipated emission trajectories, are identified. Even with uncertainties that span current wisdom on emission futures and restriction thresholds that run from 550 ppm through 850 ppm, the results offer support for at most modest abatement response over the next several decades to the threat of global change.
Computed Ground‐State Properties of FH and CH

The accuracy of existing comprehensive calculations of wavefunctions of first‐ and second‐row hydrides in close to the Hartree—Fock approximation is confirmed by performing test calculations, with larger Slater‐function basis sets, on FH and ClH.Dipole moments, quadrupole moments, magnetic susceptibilities, rotational g factors, forces on the nuclei, field gradients at the nuclei, and polarizabilities are then discussed and estimated from either computation alone, or by combining computed expectation values with observed properties. Excellent agreement between computation and observation is demonstrated for the quadrupole coupling constant for 35Cl and 37Cl nuclei in ClH. The following estimates of molecular properties not available elsewhere are made: rotational g factor is −0.033 for 19FH and +0.006 for 35ClH; diamagnetic anisotropy (ξ∥−ξ⊥) is −2.1 × 10−6 erg/G2·mole for FH, and −3.3 × 10−6 erg/G2·mole for ClH; eqQ(2H) = 0.34 Mc/sec in FH and 0.18 Mc/sec in ClH. For FH the axial components of the molecu...
Nitrification potentials in early successional black locust and in mixed hardwood forest stands in the southern Appalachians, USA

Soil nitrogen mineralisation and nitrification potentials, and soil solution chemistry were measured in black locust (Robinia pseudo-acacia L.), in pine-mixed hardwood stands on an early successional watershed (WS6), and in an older growth oak-hickory forest located on an adjacent, mixed hardwood watershed (WS14) at Coweeta Hydrologic laboratory, in the southern Appalachian mountains, U.S.A. Nitrification potentials were higher in black locust and pine-mixed hardwood early successional stands than in the oak-hickory forest of the older growth watershed. Ammonification rates were the main factor controlling nitrification in the early successional stands. There was no evidence of inhibition of nitrification in soils from the older growth oak-hickory forest site. Within the early successional watershed, black locust sites had net mineralisation and nitrification rates at least twice as high as those in the pine mixed-hardwood stands. Concentrations of exchangeable nitrate in the soil of black locust stands were higher than in pine-mixed hardwoods at 0–15 cm in March and they were also higher at 0–15, 16–30 and 31–45 cm depth in the black locust dominated sites in July. Soil solution nitrate concentrations were higher under black locust than under pine-mixed hardwoods. Areas dominated by the nitrogen fixing black locust had greater nitrogen mineralisation and nitrification rates, resulting in higher potential for leaching losses of nitrate from the soil column in the early successional watershed.
Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT)-Coated Silica Spheres: Electrochemical Modulation of the Optical Properties of a Hydrogel-Stabilized Core−Shell Particle Suspension

In situ electrochemical methods involving both oxidative and reductive mediators were employed to modify the oxidation state (doping level) of PEDOT polymers in colloidal PEDOT-coated silica core−s...
Pinpointing a puzzling polymerase.

One of the surprising discoveries in the genomic age was the presence in plant genomes of two noncanonical DNA-dependent RNA polymerases involved in small RNA–mediated gene silencing. Two recent studies map the binding sites of RNA polymerase V, uncovering new mysteries concerning the targeting and function of this enigmatic enzyme.
The oscillator strengths and the transition probabilities of the first sharp series doublet lines of indium

Abstract The oscillator strengths and the transition probabilities of the first sharp series doublet (5 p − 6 s ) lines of indium (λλ4511 and 4101) were determined from the extrapolations to zero foreign gas pressure of the plots between the integrated line absorption and the relative densities of foreign gases. The f -values turned out to be 0.1000 and 0.0959 for the two components respectively and the transition probabilities are respectively 5.93 × 10 8 and 5.39 × 10 8 . Helium pressures produced no observable effect on the integrated line contours, while the increase of argon pressure caused profound increase in absorption. Due to uncertainties in the concentration of absorbing atoms under various pressures of foreign gases, it is unreliable to associate the observed increase in the integrated line absorption with the increase of f -values of the lines concerned.
The magnetospheric reflection of whistlers

Abstract This paper provides an analytical description of the propagation of magnetospherically reflecting, non-ducted whistler-mode waves, and attempts to evaluate which features of the magnetospheric plasma govern the wave reflection process. A new approximate wave dispersion relationship is derived valid for wave propagation vectors nearly normal to the ambient field direction and for frequencies below the lower hybrid frequency. This is then used to evaluate the instantaneous radius of curvature of non-ducted whistler ray paths. It is found that the major contribution to the ray curvature results from the gradient in the magnetic field strength along the direction of the field. Analytical expressions for the whistler ray paths suggest that waves near the lower hybrid frequency bounce back and forth across the geomagnetic equatorial plane, more or less along a given field line. At lower frequencies the waves are more confined to the equatorial plane and their penetration on each bounce across field lines is larger.
In Vitro Analysis of The Control of Keratinocyte Proliferation In Human Epidermis By Physiologic and Pharmacologic Agents

Human keratinocytes grown in vitro as epithelial outgrowths or as organ cultures maintain many of their normal functions such as proliferation and keratinization. These in vitro systems have been used to analyze the effect of various agents on proliferation. All adenine nucleotides, including dibutyryl cyclic AMP, blocked mitosis in the G 2 part of the cell cycle at concentrations of 1 × 10 -4 M. Some nonadenine nucleotides also showed this effect, but only at higher concentrations, an indication that the effect was specific for adenine nucleotides. Dibutyryl cyclic AMP and theophylline both depressed the incorporation of [ 3 H]thymidine into DNA. Catecholamines such as isoproterenol, epinephrine, and norepinephrine were also potent inhibitors of mitosis (G 2 block) at concentrations of 1 × 10 -8 to 1 × 10 -10 M. The fact that the effect could be blocked by the beta-blocking agent, propranolol, suggests the existence of specific membrane receptor sites. However, dichloroisoproterenol, another beta blocker, had distinct inhibitory properties in itself and thus indicated that the mechanism of action of catecholamines in human keratinocytes is complex and may involve more than binding to specific receptor sites. Histamine at a concentration of 2 × 10 -6 M was also a strong mitotic inhibitor. This finding is directly opposed to that in rat skin where mitosis is stimulated. Imidazole acetate, a histamine breakdown product, was found to be a striking mitotic stimulator in organ culture. A water-extractable protein (chalone) from human skin also caused a block in G 2 . Most of the substances tested occur naturally in the cell or organism and their ability to stimulate or depress proliferation in vitro suggests that they play a regulatory role in vivo.
Morphology and Stability of the Glass Phase in Glass Ceramic Systems

An explanation is given for the apparent stability of a minor phase in a two-phase system, such as a glass in a glass ceramic, even though normally the glass would be expected to dissolve completely into the crystalline phase. It is shown that the glass would be stable only if it is segregated to the triple-junction nodes and only if the dihedral angle is <π/3. The size and morphology of the glass pocket are obtained in terms of the interface energies, the undercooling below the solidus temperature, and the dihedral angle.
B-aggressive lymphoma family proteins have unique domains that modulate transcription and exhibit poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase activity

BAL1 (B-aggressive lymphoma 1) was originally identified as a risk-related gene in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. BAL1 encodes a nuclear protein with N-terminal macro domains and a putative C-terminal poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) active site. Macro domains are sequences homologous to the non-histone region of histone macroH2A. Several lines of evidence suggest that these domains may modulate transcription, including a high concentration of histone macroH2A in the inactive X chromosome, direct interference with transcription factor binding in a positioned nucleosome, and structural similarity to DNA binding domains. Poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation is a critical post-translational modification that regulates chromatin configuration and transcription. In this report we describe two additional BAL family members, BAL2 and BAL3, with N-terminal macro domains and putative C-terminal PARP active sites and assess the function of these specific regions in BAL family members. Herein, we demonstrate that BAL macro domains repress transcription when tethered to a promoter. In addition, we show that BAL2 and BAL3, but not BAL1, exhibit PARP activity. In agreement with these data, BAL1 lacks several critical donor and acceptor residues that are conserved in the BAL2 and -3 PARP active sites. Of interest, BAL family members with inactive or functional PARP domains differed in their ability to repress transcription. BAL family members are the only described proteins with both PARP and macro domains, underscoring the potential functional significance of this unique combination.
Competition kin selection and evolutionary stable strategies

In his investigations on animal fighting behavior, John Maynard Smith (Ref. 1) coined the term “evolutionarily stable strategy” (ESS) to denote a behavioral strategy that is stable against invasion by a small number of individuals who employ a “mutant,” or deviant strategy. The notion of an ESS is quite similar—but not identical to—the concept of a Nash equilibrium in game theory. Several authors had previously attempted to apply game theoretic formalisms to evolutionary problems (e.g., Lewontin, Ref. 2; Slobodkin and Rappoport, Ref. 3; Rocklin and Oster, Ref. 4). With the exception of Maynard Smith’s analyses, however, few empirically verifiable predictions were generated. Moreover, with the exception of Stewart (Ref. 5), the models were mostly restricted to static games. In this study we shall present a number of models that treat ESSs from a dynamic viewpoint. In particular, we shall attempt to generalize conventional competition theory by permitting the competing parties to adjust their strategies. Rather than seeking dynamically stable equilibria, as in Volterra-Lotka theory, we shall look for strategically stable solutions, or ESSs (cf. Maynard Smith, Ref. 6). Ultimately, one must extend competitive models to the level of the genetic loci influencing the strategies. Unfortunately, the efforts in this direction usually lead to models that are mathematically intractible (cf. Rocklin and Oster, Ref. 4); therefore, there is some justification for taking a phenomeno-logical approach such as game theory.
Applications of a mechanical differential analyzer to electrical engineering

The pertinence of the differential analyser to the solution of certain types of electrical problems is explained by citing three examples. These examples have to do with magnetic amplifiers, pulse transformers, and particle (electron) accelerators.
Evidence of a sex-dependent restrictive epigenome in schizophrenia

When compared to women, men have a higher incidence of schizophrenia, with increases in negative and cognitive symptoms, and an overall poorer disease course. Schizophrenia is conceptualized as a disorder of aberrant gene transcription and regulation. Thus, epigenetics, the study of environmentally induced changes in gene regulation, could advance our understanding of the molecular underpinnings of schizophrenia. Peripheral histone methyltransferase (HMT) mRNA levels have been previously shown to be significantly increased in patients with schizophrenia and correlate with symptomology. In this independent study, peripheral lymphocytes were extracted and clinical symptoms were measured on 74 participants, (40 patients with schizophrenia (19 women, 21 men) and 34 healthy individuals (19 women, 15 men)). HMT (G9α, SETDB1 and GLP) mRNA levels and their resulting histone modification H3K9me2 were measured with RT-PCR and ELISA respectively. Plasma estradiol levels were also measured via ELISA and correlated with HMT mRNA. Clinical symptoms were measured utilizing the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and the Heinrichs Carpenter Quality of Life Scale (QLS). The results indicate that men with schizophrenia expressed the highest levels of G9α, SETDB1 mRNA and H3K9me2 protein levels. Additionally, higher levels of symptom presentation and an overall poorer quality of life were correlated with higher HMT mRNA and H3K9me2 protein levels in a sex-dependent pattern. These data support the hypothesis of a sex-dependent restrictive epigenome contributing towards the etiology of schizophrenia. The histone methyltransferases measured here could be potential future therapeutic targets for small molecule pharmacology.
Encore Parenting: When Grandparents Fill the Role of Primary Caregiver:

This literature review explores the issues of grief and the interruption of developmental stages often experienced by grandparents who raise their grandchildren and presents a case study to illustr...
Mortality level, desired family size and population increase: Further variations on a basic model

A series of computer-simulation models relating mortality level to fertility behavior and to rates of natural increase assuming that couples made use of a perfect means of birth control, that they wanted to be highly certain of having at least one son survive to the father’s 65th birthday, and that all women were biologically capable of having the same number of children were reported earlier. A model identical to one presented earlier but assuming women to be of variable fecundity is presented here; the results are quite similar. Also, the results of models assuming that parents want to be highly certain of at least two surviving children regardless of sex are compared with models assuming parental desire to be highly certain of at least one surviving son. At high levels of mortality the rates of natural increase are quite similar. When mortality is at intermediate to medium-low levels, the two-surviving-children model shows a lower rate of natural increase than the surviving-son model. At very low levels of mortality, such as now experienced by the most advanced nations, the two-surviving-children model manifests a higher rate of natural increase than the surviving-son model.
Transgenic microRNA inhibition with spatiotemporal specificity in intact organisms

Tissue-specific expression of microRNA sponges allows precise regulation of microRNA activity in living flies. The authors investigate the role of miR-8 in the formation of neuromuscular junctions in detail.
Immune Function Is More Compromised After Closed Bone Fracture and Hemorrhagic Shock Than Hemorrhage Alone

Objective: To determine whether closed bone fracture in conjunction with hemorrhagic shock compromises immune functions more severely than hemorrhagic shock alone. Design: In a randomized, controlled trial, closed bone fracture of the right lower leg and/or hemorrhagic shock (mean±SEM arterial blood pressure, 35±5 mm Hg for 90 minutes) were induced in male C3H/HeN mice (weight, 25 g). Animals subjected to hemorrhage were resuscitated with the shed blood and lactated Ringer solution. At 72 hours after the experiment, all animals were killed to obtain whole blood, splenocytes, and splenic and peritoneal macrophages. Macrophage interleukin-1 and splenocyte interleukin-2 and interleukin-3 release were determined by bioassay, and splenocyte proliferation was measured by tritiated thymidine incorporation. Results: Closed bone fracture alone did not affect immune functions 72 hours after the trauma. Hemorrhagic shock, however, induced a significant depression of splenocyte and macrophage functions. Bone fracture followed by hemorrhagic shock further depressed splenocyte proliferation and splenocyte interleukin-2 and interleukin-3 release as well as interleukin-1 release. Conclusion: Since bone injury coupled with hemorrhagic shock produces more severe depression of immune functions than hemorrhage alone, bone injury appears to play a contributory role in further depressing immune functions in trauma patients who experience major blood loss. Arch Surg. 1996;131:995-1000
C2 Nerve Root Sectioning in Posterior C1-2 Instrumented Fusions

Objective To analyze qualitatively C2 nerve dysfunction after its transection in C1-2 posterolateral instrumented fusions. Methods From 2002–2010, 20 consecutive patients underwent posterolateral instrumented fusions using C1 lateral mass and C2 pars or pedicle screws, mainly for type 2 dens fractures. Screws were placed under lateral fluoroscopic guidance using standard techniques. Bilateral C2 nerve roots were coagulated and transected in all patients. Mean follow-up was 30.7 months and consisted of clinical and radiographic examinations, telephone interviews, and mailed visual analogue scale (VAS) questionnaires assessing C2 nerve dysfunction. Results One patient was lost to follow-up after the initial postoperative visit. Fusion was evident in all patients with 12 months of follow-up and two of three patients with Conclusions This study is the first series to describe C2 nerve function after posterior atlantoaxial instrumented fusion in adults of all ages. Sacrifice of the C2 nerve root increases fusion surface, allows for better preparation and decortication of the atlantoaxial joint, improves visualization for screw placement, and decreases blood loss and operative time without major clinical consequences.
In VINI veritas: realistic and controlled network experimentation

This paper describes VINI, a virtual network infrastructure that allows network researchers to evaluate their protocols and services in a realistic environment that also provides a high degree of control over network conditions. VINI allows researchers to deploy and evaluate their ideas with real routing software, traffic loads, and network events. To provide researchers flexibility in designing their experiments, VINI supports simultaneous experiments with arbitrary network topologies on a shared physical infrastructure. This paper tackles the following important design question: What set of concepts and techniques facilitate flexible, realistic, and controlled experimentation (e.g., multiple topologies and the ability to tweak routing algorithms) on a fixed physical infrastructure? We first present VINI's high-level design and the challenges of virtualizing a single network. We then present PL-VINI, an implementation of VINI on PlanetLab, running the "Internet In a Slice". Our evaluation of PL-VINI shows that it provides a realistic and controlled environment for evaluating new protocols and services.
Do urological symptoms cluster among women? Results from the Boston Area Community Health Survey

OBJECTIVES To conduct a cluster analysis of urological symptoms among women in the Boston Area Community Health (BACH) Survey, to describe the distribution of urological symptoms within each cluster, and to determine whether comorbidities, demographic characteristics, and lifestyle factors were associated with cluster membership. SUBJECTS AND METHODS The BACH Survey is a racially and ethnically diverse random sample (3205 women) of community-dwelling residents of Boston, MA, USA, aged 30-79 years. Fourteen urological symptoms measured by participant self-report (using previously validated scales) were included in this analysis. Cluster analyses were conducted using hierarchical and non-hierarchical (k-means) methods. Within clusters, demographic characteristics, risk factors for urological symptoms and the interference of symptoms with daily activities were also assessed. RESULTS Three-quarters of the sample reported at least one urological symptom; four symptom clusters were identified. Most symptomatic women (54%) were assigned to Cluster 1, which was characterized by storage symptoms (nocturia and urinary frequency) with an accompanying low prevalence of other urological symptoms; a second cluster was distinguished by frequency symptoms. Clusters 3 and 4 were characterized by a high prevalence of urinary incontinence and had increased interference scores and more symptoms overall (including voiding and post-voiding symptoms) than the other two clusters. Cluster 4 (8% of symptomatic women) was characterized by a high prevalence of nearly all urological symptoms and the highest interference score. In this most symptomatic cluster, body size and waist circumference were markedly higher, as was the prevalence of diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease than in the other cluster groups or asymptomatic women. Women in Cluster 4 were more likely to be surgically menopausal, or to have had other forms of urogynaecological surgeries than women in the other clusters. CONCLUSION Four distinct clusters of urological symptoms were identified among symptomatic women in the BACH Survey, two of which had a high prevalence of urinary incontinence. These cluster patterns provide a novel, empirically-based framework for investigating aetiological mechanisms and management outcomes for common urological symptoms in women.
Cellulose Biosynthesis in Higher Plants and the Role of the Cytoskeleton

Cellulose is a polysaccharide consisting of a linear chain of β (14) linked d-glucose and it is the most abundant polymer on earth. As a major structural component of the cell wall, cellulose accounts for about one-third of plant mass. The regulation of cellulose biosynthesis is essential to plant development. Cellulose is synthesised by the cellulose synthase (CESA) complex in the plasma membrane. This article reviews the composition and regulation of the cellulose synthase complex with a focus on the role of cytoskeleton in higher plants. In this article, the evolving views in the field of cellulose biosynthesis are discussed and the unresolved questions, such as in vitro cellulose synthesis, structure of CESA and mechanism underlying microtubule–microfibril alignment hypothesis, are highlighted. Key Concepts: Cellulose is a polysaccharide consisting of a linear chain of β (14) linked d-glucose. Cellulose is synthesised by large membrane-bound protein complexes known as cellulose synthase complexes (CSCs). Microtubule–microfibril alignment hypothesis states that there is a causal link between the orientation of cortical microtubules and nascent microfibrils. Primary cell wall surrounds all plant cells and is formed during cell division and expansion. Secondary cell wall is formed between the primary cell wall and the plasma membrane in cells that are subject to mechanical stress. Keywords: cellulose; cellulose synthase complex; rosette; microtubule; cytoskeleton
Protective actions of nebivolol on chronic nitric oxide synthase inhibition-induced hypertension and chronic kidney disease in the rat: a comparison with angiotensin II receptor blockade

Background. Nitric oxide (NO) deficiency contributes to chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression and hypertension. The b-blocker, nebivolol (N), also enhances NO production, and we studied whether N attenuates CKD and hypertension caused by chronic NO synthase inhibition (CNOSI). Methods. Male Sprague–Dawley rats on 6 weeks of CNOSI (L-NAME, 150 mg/L drinking water) received placebo (P), N (10 mg/kg/day), olmesartan (O, 2.5 mg/ kg/day) or N 1 O. Blood pressure (BP) and urine protein and NOx (metabolites of NO) were monitored throughout. We measured glomerular sclerosis (GS), creatinine clearance (CCr) and components of the NO and oxidant pathways in the renal cortex. Results. BP increased >50 mmHg in P by weeks 4–6, but no change occurred in N, O or N 1 O. P rats developed proteinuria and GS and CCr was ~30% of normal. In N, O and N 1 O, all values remained normal. In renal cortex of P, p22phox and nitrotyrosine abundance as well as H2O2 levels were higher and extracellular superoxide dismutase (EC SOD) was lower versus normal kidneys. N, O and N 1 O normalized p22phox, H2O2 and EC SOD and increased Mn SOD above normal. The cortical neuronal NO synthase (nNOS) b abundance increased in P and this was prevented by N, O and N 1 O. Conclusion. We suggest that the major benefit from both N and O is reduction in oxidative stress in the renal cortex, which may potentiate residual local NO. There was no additive benefit of N 1 O since each drug effectively prevented injury, but a combination may be beneficial where protection is incomplete with each drug. The increased nNOSb protein seen early in the course of the CKD may contribute to the evolving GS.
Mechanisms of nicotine-induced inhibition of pancreatic secretion of bicarbonate in the dog.

The effect of nicotine upon pancreatic secretion of fluid and bicarbonate was studied in conscious dogs prepared with pancreatic and gastric fistulas. Secretion was stimulated either by intravenous infusion of exogenous secretin in various doses or by the endogenous release of secretin elicited by intraduodenal infusion of hydrochloric acid. Nicotine was administered to inhibit pancreatic secretion; the alkaloid was infused intravenously or applied topically to the duodenal mucosa. Intravenous infusion of nicotine inhibited pancreatic secretion stimulated by all doses of exogenous secretin and by endogenously released secretin. Intraduodenal nicotine inhibited pancreatic secretion stimulated by endogenously released secretin but not by intravenous secretin. The depression of exogenously stimulated pancreatic secretion by intravenous nicotine showed characteristics of competitive inhibition. Nicotine appears to inhibit pancreatic bicarbonate and water secretion by a direct action on that organ and also by decreasing the endogenous release of secretin from the duodenal mucosa. Nicotine did not have a significant effect on pancreatic protein output stimulated by either secretin or cholecystokinin.
5-Aza-2-deoxycytidine and trichostatin A increase COUP-TFII expression in antiestrogen-resistant breast cancer cell lines

COUP-TFII is reduced in endocrine-resistant breast cancer cells and is negatively associated with tumor grade. Transient re-expression of COUP-TFII restores antiestrogen sensitivity in resistant LCC2 and LCC9 cells and repression of COUP-TFII results in antiestrogen-resistance in MCF-7 endocrine-sensitive cells. We addressed the hypothesis that reduced COUP-TFII expression in endocrine-resistant breast cancer cells results from epigenetic modification. The NR2F2 gene encoding COUP-TFII includes seven CpG islands, including one in the 5' promoter and one in exon 1. Treatment of LCC2 and LCC9 endocrine-resistant breast cancer cells with 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (AZA), a DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitor, +/- trichostatin A (TSA), a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, increased COUP-TFII suggesting that the decrease in COUP-TFII is mediated by epigenetic changes. Methylation-specific PCR (MSP) revealed higher methylation of NR2F2 in the first exon in LCC2 and LCC9 cells compared to MCF-7 cells and AZA reduced this methylation. Translational importance is suggested by Cancer Methylome System (CMS) analysis revealing that breast tumors have increased COUP-TFII (NR2F2) promoter and gene methylation versus normal breast.
Multiple myeloma: the death of VAD as initial therapy

Comment on Cavo et al, page [35][1] In a matched case-control study of 200 patients, Cavo and colleagues show that thalidomide plus dexamethasone (Thal-Dex) yields significantly higher response rates compared with VAD as pretransplant induction therapy for multiple myeloma. In recent years, the
Marital Conflict Behaviors and Implications for Divorce over 16 Years.

This study examined self-reported marital conflict behaviors and their implications for divorce. Husbands and wives (N = 373 couples; 47% White American, 53% Black American) reported conflict behaviors in Years 1, 3, 7, and 16 of their marriages. Individual behaviors (e.g., destructive behaviors) and patterns of behaviors between partners (e.g., withdrawal-constructive) in Year 1 predicted higher divorce rates. Wives' destructive and withdrawal behaviors decreased over time, whereas husbands' conflict behaviors remained stable. Husbands reported more constructive and less destructive behaviors than wives, and Black American couples reported more withdrawal than White American couples. Findings support behavioral theories of marriage demonstrating that conflict behaviors predict divorce and accommodation theories indicating that conflict behaviors become less negative over time.
Active multi-model control for dynamic maneuver optimization of unmanned air vehicles

We present a wavelet-based multi-resolution dynamic maneuver optimization method for UAV route planning. We use a combination of evolutionary computing and interior point based dynamic optimization algorithm to satisfy constraints imposed by vehicle dynamics as well as obstacle avoidance.
Spinal extradural arachnoid cysts: clinical, radiological, and surgical features

Extradural arachnoid cysts in the spine are rare and are seldom a cause of spinal cord compression. They are thought to arise from congenital defects in the dura mater, and they almost always communicate with the intrathecal subarachnoid space through a small defect in the dura. The mainstay of treatment in patients with neurological symptoms is surgical removal of the cyst together with ligation of the communicating pedicle and closure of the dural defect. In the present paper the authors review the literature and discuss the clinical and pathological features, mechanisms of pathogenesis, neuroimaging characteristics, and surgical management of spinal extradural arachnoid cysts. The surgical technique for removal of these lesions is illustrated in a patient with a large thoracolumbar spinal extradural arachnoid cyst causing neurogenic claudication.
Ground-based remote profiling in atmospheric studies: an overview

Over the last 25 years, ground-based remote profiling has found increasing applications in atmospheric studies where its high vertical and temporal resolution and extended vertical coverage are giving scientists a clearer understanding of atmospheric processes in the troposphere. The authors describe the current status of techniques for vertical profiling of mean wind speeds, temperature, and humidity, and discuss options for combining them. >
MAPK/ERK Signaling Pathway Analysis in Primary Osteoblasts From Patients With Nonsyndromic Sagittal Craniosynostosis.

Objective: The MAPK/ERK signaling pathway has been implicated in several craniosynostosis syndromes and represents a plausible target for therapeutic management of craniosynostosis. The causes of sagittal nonsyndromic craniosynostosis (sNSC) have not been well understood and the role that MAPK/ERK signaling cascade plays in this condition warrants an investigation. We hypothesized that MAPK-signaling is misregulated in calvarial osteoblasts derived from patients with sNSC. Methods: In order to analyze if the MAPK/ERK pathway is perturbed in sNSC, we established primary calvarial osteoblast cell lines from patients undergoing surgery for correction of this congenital anomaly. Appropriate negative and positive control cell lines were used for comparison, and we examined the levels of phosphorylated ERK by immunoblotting. Results: Primary osteoblasts from patients with sNSC showed no difference in ERK1/2 phosphorylation with or without FGF2 stimulation as compared with control osteoblasts. Conclusion: Under ...
Necessity and natural categories

Our knowledge of natural categories includes beliefs not only about what is true of them but also about what would be true if the categories had properties other than (or in addition to) their actual ones. Evidence about these beliefs comes from three lines of research: experiments on category-based induction, on hypothetical transformations of category members, and on definitions of kind terms. The 1st part of this article examines results and theories arising from each of these research streams. The 2nd part considers possible unified theories for this domain, including theories based on ideals and norms. It also contrasts 2 broad frameworks for modal category information: one focusing on beliefs about intrinsic or essential properties, the other focusing on interacting causal relations.
How Mayan mothers with different amounts of schooling organize a problem-solving discussion with children

This study investigated how two groups of Guatemalan Mayan mothers varying in schooling experience organized children’s participation in a problem-solving discussion. Twenty-eight foursomes of mothers and three children (ages 6-12 years) were videotaped discussing how to solve the shortage of drinking water in their town. Mayan mothers with no or very little schooling (0-2 grades) more often facilitated children’s verbal contributions through open invitations without assigning particular children to respond, whereas Mayan mothers with greater schooling experience (12 or more grades) more often structured children’s contributions through individual turn taking and test questions. These observed differences in mothers’ structuring of children’s participation may be associated with how western schooling and other practices associated with modernization are affecting the cultural practices of a Mayan community that is becoming increasingly more modernized.
Parallel content-based sub-image retrieval using hierarchical searching

Motivation: The capacity to systematically search through large image collections and ensembles and detect regions exhibiting similar morphological characteristics is central to pathology diagnosis. Unfortunately, the primary methods used to search digitized, wholeslide histopathology specimens are slow and prone to inter- and intra-observer variability. The central objective of this research was to design, develop, and evaluate a content-based image retrieval system to assist doctors for quick and reliable content-based comparative search of similar prostate image patches. Method: Given a representative image patch (sub-image), the algorithm will return a ranked ensemble of image patches throughout the entire whole-slide histology section which exhibits the most similar morphologic characteristics. This is accomplished by first performing hierarchical searching based on a newly developed hierarchical annular histogram (HAH). The set of candidates is then further refined in the second stage of processing by computing a color histogram from eight equally divided segments within each square annular bin defined in the original HAH. A demand-driven master-worker parallelization approach is employed to speed up the searching procedure. Using this strategy, the query patch is broadcasted to all worker processes. Each worker process is dynamically assigned an image by the master process to search for and return a ranked list of similar patches in the image. Results: The algorithm was tested using digitized hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stained prostate cancer specimens. We have achieved an excellent image retrieval performance. The recall rate within the first 40 rank retrieved image patches is � 90%. Availability and implementation: Both the testing data and source code can be downloaded from http://pleiad.umdnj.edu/CBII/ Bioinformatics/.
Efficacies of liposome-encapsulated streptomycin and ciprofloxacin against Mycobacterium avium-M. intracellulare complex infections in human peripheral blood monocyte/macrophages.

Current treatments of disseminated infection caused by the Mycobacterium avium-M. intracellulare complex (MAC) are generally ineffective. Liposome-mediated delivery of antibiotics to MAC-infected tissues in vivo can enhance the efficacy of the drugs (N. Duzgunes, V. K. Perumal, L. Kesavalu, J. A. Goldstein, R. J. Debs, and P. R. J. Gangadharam, Antimicrob. Agents Chemother. 32:1404-1411, 1988; N. Duzgunes, D. A. Ashtekar, D. L. Flasher, N. Ghori, R. J. Debs, D. S. Friend, and P. R. J. Gangadharam, J. Infect. Dis. 164:143-151, 1991). We investigated the therapeutic efficacies of liposome-encapsulated streptomycin and ciprofloxacin against growth of the MAC inside human peripheral blood monocyte/macrophages. Treatment was initiated 24 h after infection of macrophages with the MAC and stopped after 20 h, and the cells were incubated for another 7 days. The antimycobacterial activity of streptomycin was enhanced when the drug was delivered to macrophages in liposome-encapsulated form, reducing the CFU about threefold more than the free drug did throughout the concentration range studied (10 to 50 micrograms/ml). With 50 micrograms of encapsulated streptomycin per ml, the CFU were reduced to 11% of the initial level of infection. Liposome-encapsulated ciprofloxacin was at least 50 times more effective against the intracellular bacteria than was the free drug: at a concentration of 0.1 microgram/ml, liposome-encapsulated ciprofloxacin had greater antimycobacterial activity than the free drug at 5 microgram/ml. With liposome-encapsulated ciprofloxacin at 5 micrograms/ml, the CFU were reduced by more than 1,000-fold at the end of the 7-day incubation period, compared with untreated controls. These results suggest that liposome-encapsulated ciprofloxacin or other fluoroquinolones may be effective against MAC infections in vivo.
HIV-associated neurologic disease incidence changes: Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study, 1990–1998

This study examined the temporal trends in the incidence rates of HIV dementia, cryptococcal meningitis, toxoplasmosis, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, and CNS lymphoma from January 1990 to December 1998 in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study. The incidence rates for HIV dementia, cryptococcal meningitis, and lymphoma decreased following the introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). The proportion of new cases of HIV dementia with a CD4 count in a higher range (i.e., 201 to 350) since 1996 may be increasing.
On the Use of the Inverted Abel Integral for Evaluating Spectroscopic Sources

A numerical method for evaluating the inverted Abel integral employing cubic spline approximations is described along with a modification of the procedure of Cremers and Birkebak, and an extension of the Barr method. The accuracy of the computations is evaluated at several noise levels and with varying resolution of the input data. The cubic spline method is found to be useful only at very low noise levels, but capable of providing good results with small data sets. The Barr method is computationally the simplest, and is adequate when large data sets are available. For noisy data, the method of Cremers and Birkebak gave the best results.
Effect of muscle glycogen content on exercise-induced changes in muscle T2 times

Effects of gastrocnemius glycogen (Gly) concentration on changes in transverse relaxation time (T2; ms) were studied after 5-min plantar flexion at 25% of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC). Gastr...
Mad as hell or scared stiff? The effects of value conflict and emotions on potential whistle-blowers

Existing whistle-blowing models rely on “cold” economic calculations and cost-benefit analyses to explain the judgments and actions of potential whistle-blowers. I argue that “hot” cognitions – value conflict and emotions – should be added to these models. I propose a model of the whistle-blowing decision process that highlights the reciprocal influence of “hot” and “cold” cognitions and advocate research that explores how value conflict and emotions inform reporting decisions. I draw on the cognitive appraisal approach to emotions and on the social-functional value pluralism model to generate propositions.
Preparedness for Pandemics: Does variation among states affect the nation as a whole?

Objective: Since states public health systems differ as to pandemic preparedness, this study explored whether such heterogeneity among states could affect the nations overall influenza rate. Design: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention produced a uniform set of scores on a 100-point scale from its 2008 national evaluation of state preparedness to distribute materiel from the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS). This study used these SNS scores to represent each states relative preparedness to distribute influenza vaccine in a timely manner and assumed that "optimal" vaccine distribution would reach at least 35% of the states population within 4 weeks. The scores were used to determine the timing of vaccine distribution for each state: each 10-point decrement of score below 90 added an additional delay increment to the distribution time. Setting and Participants: A large-scale agent-based computational model simulated an influenza pandemic in the US population. In this synthetic population each individual or agent had an assigned household, age, workplace or school destination, daily commute, and domestic intercity air travel patterns. Main Outcome Measures: Simulations compared influenza case rates both nationally and at the state level under 3 Scenarios: no vaccine distribution (baseline), optimal vaccine distribution in all states, and vaccine distribution time modified according to state-specific SNS score. Results: Between optimal and SNS-modified scenarios, attack rates rose not only in low-scoring states but also in high-scoring states, demonstrating an interstate spread of infections. Influenza rates were sensitive to variation of the SNS-modified scenario (delay increments of 1 day versus 5 days), but the interstate effect remained. Conclusions: The effectiveness of a response activity such as vaccine distribution could benefit from national standards and preparedness funding allocated in part to minimize interstate disparities. Copyright © 2012 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
A Statistical Model for Stationary Atmospheric Cloudiness, Liquid Water Content, and Rate of Precipitation

Abstract A simple model is developed whereby we compute the men hydrological elements in the atmosphere including fractional cloudiness, liquid water content, rate of precipitation, and the water vapor field over a large area. The atmosphere is modeled by an ensemble of many air parcels moving randomly in the vertical direction. The adiabatic expansion of the air parcel generates the condensation of water vapor, which in turn forms cloud droplets and precipitates as rain or snow. These processes are formulated in a simple manner based on the assumption of stationary equilibrium between the growth of cloud droplets and the precipitation due to gravity. Also, a high statistical correlation between vertical velocities and the lengths of vertical displacement is assumed in order to calculate the mean thermodynamical changes for the ensemble of moist air parcels. The model computes all the hydrological components if the mean humidity, the mean vertical velocity and its standard deviation, together with two tim...