cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analysis for stress environment in the alveolar sac model.

Better understanding of alveolar mechanics is very important in order to avoid lung injuries for patients undergoing mechanical ventilation for treatment of respiratory problems. The objective of this study was to investigate the alveolar mechanics for two different alveolar sac models, one based on actual geometry and the other an idealized spherical geometry using coupled fluid-solid computational analysis. Both the models were analyzed through coupled fluid-solid analysis to estimate the parameters such as pressures/ velocities and displacements/stresses under mechanical ventilation conditions. The results obtained from the fluid analysis indicate that both the alveolar geometries give similar results for pressures and velocities. However, the results obtained from coupled fluid-solid analysis indicate that the actual alveolar geometry results in smaller displacements in comparison to a spherical alveolar model. This trend is also true for stress/strain between the two models. The results presented indicate that alveolar geometry greatly affects the pressure/velocities as well as displacements and stresses/strains.
Dissemination of design knowledge: evidence from 1950s' Brazil

The dissemination of design knowledge is most often approached as an intra-disciplinary movement in which information circulates between scholars and practitioners. In this article I use evidence f...
Disruption of morphine‐conditioned place preference by a δ2‐opioid receptor antagonist: study of μ‐opioid and δ‐opioid receptor expression at the synapse

The addictive properties of morphine limit its clinical use. Learned associations that develop between the abused opiate and the environment in which it is consumed are engendered through Pavlovian conditioning processes. Disruption of the learned associations between the opiate and environmental cues may be a therapeutic approach to prevent morphine dependence. Although a role for the delta-opioid receptor in the regulation of the rewarding properties of morphine has already been shown, in this study we further characterize the role of the delta-opioid receptor in morphine-induced conditioned responses by examining the effect of a selective delta-2-opioid receptor antagonist (naltriben) using a conditioned place preference paradigm in rats. Additionally, we used a subcellular fractionation technique to analyze the synaptic localization of mu- and delta-opioid receptors in the hippocampus in order to examine the molecular mechanisms that may underlie this morphine-induced conditioned behavior. Our data show that the administration of 1 mg/kg naltriben (but not 0.1 mg/kg) prior to morphine was able to block morphine-induced conditioned place preference. Interestingly, this naltriben-induced disruption of morphine conditioned place preference was associated with a significant increase in the expression of the delta-opioid receptor dimer at the postsynaptic density. In addition, we also observed that morphine conditioned place preference was associated with an increase in the expression of the mu-opoid receptor in the total homogenate. Overall, these results suggest that the modulation of the delta-opioid receptor expression and its synaptic localization may constitute a viable therapeutic approach to disrupt morphine-induced conditioned responses.
Efficacy of anti-Aβ antibody isotypes used for intracerebroventricular immunization in TgCRND8

Abstract We have previously demonstrated that intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection of anti-Aβ (IgG1, kappa against the 1–28 region of Aβ) reduced cerebral amyloid plaques by 50% after 1 month without producing hemorrhage or activating IL-1β responses in Tg2576 brain [N.B. Chauhan, G.J. Siegel, Reversal of amyloid beta toxicity in Alzheimer's disease model Tg2576 by intraventricular antiamyloid beta antibody, J. Neurosci. Res. 69 (1) (2002) 10–23]. The current report compares the efficacy of IgG1, IgG2a and IgG2b isotypes of anti-Aβ against several different epitopes of Aβ in clearing cerebral Aβ after a single bolus ICV injection in TgCRND8. Consistent with earlier in vitro findings from other laboratories, these in vivo data demonstrate that all IgG1 isotype antibodies tested cleared cerebral Aβ more efficiently than did IgG2a and IgG2b antibodies without producing histotoxicity in brain, liver or kidney, while an antibody against the C-terminus of Aβ did not reduce plaques or diminish their accumulation with aging of the animals. Intriguingly, there was no significant difference between the Aβ-reducing efficiency of IgG1 anti-Aβ antibodies directed against residues 3–6, against residues 1–10 or against residues 1–28 of N-terminus Aβ.
Fusion partners can increase the expression of recombinant interleukins via transient transfection in 2936E cells

The expression levels of five secreted target interleukins (IL-11, 15, 17B, 32, and IL23 p19 subunit) were tested with three different fusion partners in 2936E cells. When fused to the N-terminus, human serum albumin (HSA) was found to enhance the expression of both IL-17B and IL-15, cytokines which did not express at measurable levels on their own. Although the crystallizable fragment of an antibody (Fc) was also an effective fusion partner for IL-17B, Fc did not increase expression of IL-15. Fc was superior to HSA for the expression of the p19 subunit of IL-23, but no partner led to measurable levels of IL-32γ secretion. Glutathione S-transferase (GST) did not enhance the expression of any target and suppressed the production of IL-11, a cytokine which expressed robustly both on its own and when fused to HSA or Fc. Cleavage of the fusion partner was not always possible. The use of HSA or Fc as N-terminal fusions can be an effective technique to express difficult proteins, especially for applications in which the fusion partner need not be removed.
Effect of electrodeless glow discharge on polymers

The effects of gas plasma generated by electrodeless (inductive coupling) glow discharge on polymers were investigated as functions of gas pressure, discharge power, exposure time, and type of plasma gas. A remarkable similarity between the plasma susceptibilities of low molecular weight organic compounds and polymers was observed; i.e., polymers which have ether, carbonyl, ester, or carboxylic acid attached to a nonaromatic structure are very susceptible to plasma. The weight loss was proportional to the exposure time and exposed area. The discharge power and type of gas were found to have a great influence on both the rate of weight loss and the morphology of the exposed surface. The predominant effect of plasma on polymers was found to be degradation (manifested by weight loss). The crosslinking effect was found to be marginal with many polymers; however, significant crosslinking was observed with double bond-containing polymers. The crosslinking was examined by swelling the treated films. With copolymers of styrene–butadiene, 4-vinylpyridine–butadiene, methacrylic acid-butadiene, and acrylic acid–butadiene, the crosslinking was greatly dependent on the discharge power, the butadiene content of the copolymers, and the exposure time. Both degradation and crosslinking by gas plasma were generally limited to the exposed surface; however, the propagation of crosslinking in the direction of thickness was observed with copolymers of styrene–butadiene. The plasma of organic vapor also cause degradation of plasma-susceptible polymers, particularly at high wattage, although the deposition of polymer occurs simultaneously.
FORAGES AND PASTURES SYMPOSIUM: Managing the tall fescue–fungal endophyte symbiosis for optimum forage-animal production

Alkaloids produced by the fungal endophyte (Neotyphodium coenophialum) that infects tall fescue [Lolium arundinaceum (Schreb.) Darbysh.] are a paradox to cattle production. Although certain alkaloids impart tall fescue with tolerances to environmental stresses, such as moisture, heat, and herbivory, ergot alkaloids produced by the endophyte can induce fescue toxicosis, a malady that adversely affects animal production and physiology. Hardiness and persistence of tall fescue under limited management can be attributed to the endophyte, but the trade-off is reduced cattle production from consumption of ergot alkaloids produced by the endophyte. Improved understanding and knowledge of this endophyte-grass complex has facilitated development of technologies and management systems that can either mitigate or completely alleviate fescue toxicosis. This review discusses the research results that have led to development of 5 management approaches to either reduce the severity of fescue toxicosis or alleviate it altogether. Three approaches manipulate the endophyte-tall fescue complex to reduce or alleviate ergot alkaloids: 1) use of heavy grazing intensities, 2) replacing the toxic endophyte with nonergot alkaloid-producing endophytes, and 3) chemical suppression of seed head emergence. The remaining 2 management options do not affect ergot alkaloid concentrations in fescue tissues but are used 1) to avoid grazing of tall fescue with increased ergot alkaloid concentrations in the late spring and summer by moving cattle to warm-season grass pasture and 2) to dilute dietary alkaloids by interseeding clovers or feeding supplements.
Female Business Owners In Apparel Manufacturing: An Integrative Perspective

The purpose of this study was to investigate Brush's (1992) integrative perspective of female business owners. The sample included 22 women apparel-manufacturing owners purposively chosen to participate in on-site interviews. A 36-item interview schedule was used to assess business owners' current business practices, provide information about their family, and to characterize their career as a business owner in apparel manufacturing. A Windows version of NUD*IST 4 was used to analyze the data. These women perceived being their own boss as a benefit and measured success in non-economic terms. Motives for business creation were personal fulfillment and professional achievement. They expressed regret about ownership if spouses were reported as unsupportive or if children were in the home. Brush's (1992) integrative perspective was validated, in part. These women perceived themselves in a network of work and family relationships.
The synthesis of 6-O-(2-acetamido-2-deoxy-β-D-galactopyranosyl)-D-galactose by inversion of configuration

Abstract As a model synthesis for the preparation of oligosaccharides containing the 2-acetamido-2-deoxy- D -galactopyranosyl group, 6-O-(2-acetamido-2-deoxy-β- D -galactopyranosyl)- D -galactose was prepared by inversion of configuration at C-4 of the amino sugar unit of benzyl 6-O-[2-acetamido-3-O-acetyl-2-deoxy-4,6-di-O-(methylsulfonyl)-β- D -glucopyranosyl]-2,3,4-tri-O-benzyl-β- D -galactopyranoside. This intermediate was obtained by condensation of benzyl 6-O-(2-acetamido-2-deoxy-β- D -glucopyranosyl)-2,3,4-tri-O-benzyl-β- D -galactopyranoside with benzaldehyde, followed by acetylation, hydrolysis of the 4,6-O-benzylidene grouping, and methanesulfonylation. The compound resulting from the inversion of configuration, namely, benzyl 6-O-(2-acetamido-3,4,6-tri-O-acetyl-2-deoxy-β- D -galactopyranosyl)-2,3,4-tri-O-benzyl-β- D -galactopyranoside, was found to be identical with the product formed by condensation of benzyl 2,3,4-tri-O-benzyl-β- D -galactopyranoside with 2-acetamido-3,4,6-tri-O-acetyl-α- D -galactopyranosyl bromide in the presence of mercuric cyanide. Hydrogenolysis and alkaline treatment gave the title compound, purified through the octaacetate.
Money and output under alternative exchange rate regimes in the USA

Abstract Economic theory suggests that the effects of money on output will depend on the exchange rate regime. This paper examines the relationship between money and output under fixed and flexible exchange rates in the USA. Johansen's maximum likelihood estimation method is utilized to test for cointegration in a system consisting of money, the interest rate, prices, the trade balance and output during 1959–1971 and 1973–1990, with the exchange rate included in the analysis fo the second period. The results indicate that the variables are cointegrated, suggesting the existence of long-run equilibrium relationships between the domestic and external variables. Vaiance decompositions reveal a much larger role for money in explaining forecast error vaiance of output during the flexible exchange rate period. Money and the interest rate explain a substantial proportion of the variances of the trade balance and the exchange rate. This suggests that effects on the exchange rate and trade balance are an important component of the transmission mechanism of monetary policy. (JEL F41).
Cholelithiasis in the gravid Hispanic population.

Ultrasound examinations were performed to determine the prevalence of cholelithiasis in 585 pregnant Hispanic patients. The ultrasound findings were correlated with age and country of birth. The overall prevalence of gallstones was 5.3%. This is not statistically different from the prevalence of gallstones in age-matched groups from previously published studies not selected for country of birth or ethnic background. We found no statistically significant different in prevalence rates for gallstones between Mexican-born and non-Mexican-born pregnant Hispanic women in the 20-year to 49-year age group. Unlike prior studies, this study does not support the use of increased ultrasound examination for cholelithiasis in a pregnant Hispanic population. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Decay of 94Tc isomers into the levels of 94Mo

Abstract The energy levels in 94Mo have been investigated from the decay of 94Tc isomers using Ge(Li) and NaI(Tl) detectors. The energies of the gamma rays in keV (and relative intensities) from the decay of 52 min 94mTc are 870.9(100), 993.1(2.6), 1196.3(0.9), 1522.0(5.9) 1868.8(5.8), 2393.0(0.6), 2530.0(0.7), 2740.0(3.8), 3129.2(1.2) and 3793.5(0.1). Gamma-ray energies (and transition intensities) observed in the decay of 5 h 94gTc are 449.0(27), 531.6(1.2), 702.6(100), 742.0(1.1), 849.7(100), 870.9(100), 916.2(6.8), 1509.7(0.7), 1591.8(2.4) and 1764.6(0.2). An angular correlation measurement indicated the presence of a second 2+ state. The results are in partial agreement with the effective interaction calculations of Bhatt and Ball and of Vervier.
Effective Reading Programs for English Language Learners and Other Language-Minority Students

Abstract This article systematically reviews research on elementary reading programs for English language learners and other language-minority students. It focuses on studies that compared experimental and control groups on quantitative reading measures. Among beginning reading models, research supported structured, phonetic programs emphasizing language development in both native-language and English instruction. Tutoring programs were also supported. For upper-elementary reading, research supported a broad range of programs, but particularly effective were programs using cooperative learning, extensive vocabulary instruction, and literature.
Acute transverse myelitis associated with scrub typhus: case report and a review of literatures

We describe a rare case of acute transverse myelitis associated with scrub typhus. Magnetic resonance imaging scans, clinical characteristics, skin biopsy, and cerebrospinal fluid cytology confirmed a diagnosis of acute transverse myelitis associated with scrub typhus. To our knowledge, this was not seen in a prior publication. Our case indicates that Orientia tsutsugamushi can invade spinal cord.
PHOTOPRODUCTION OF NEGATIVE PIONS FROM HYDROGEN AT FORWARD ANGLES

The recent theoretical investigation by Drell [1] of the photoproduction of very high energy particles at small angles predicts a large peak in differential cross section in this region. In particular, if one applies his results to the photoproduction of negative pions from hydrogen one obtains a value for the differential cross section that is several times larger than the value measured in pair production experiments at larger angles and lower energies. This interesting result has prompted the experimental investigation reported here.
The uptake of methonium compounds by isolated slices of rat cerebral cortex.

— The uptakes of a series of methonium compounds, C2, C4, C6, C7, C8, C9 and C10, by isolated slices of rat cerebral cortex were measured. Analyses of the kinetics of uptake of C7, C8, C9 and C10 indicate that their initial influxes consist of two components. A Michaelis-Menten type uptake by carrier can account for the saturable fraction. C7 had the lowest affinity for the carrier, with values increasing for C8, C9 and C10, while C10 had the smallest maximum influx with values increasing for C9, C8 and C7. The unsaturable fraction corresponded to the slow continuous swelling of the tissue. The uptake of C8 was inhibited by other methonium compounds, choline, ACh, physostigmine, ouabain and morphine. C8 could be counter-transported by C7. There is evidence that the main driving force for uptake is the transmembrane potential, but the steric factor may be a restricting influence.
Vertical motion in the atmosphere and its effect on VHF radio signal strength

The hypothesis is proposed that the vertical gradient of the refractive index is strongly affected by the vertical motion in the atmosphere. It is shown that changes in this gradient are due principally to changes in the moisture stratification and temperature lapse rate resulting from the vertical velocity and its horizontal gradient within the air mass. Mean radio signal strengths are plotted against the time position of 500-mb troughs and ridges relative to the radio link. A series of 500-mb charts is given, with the vertical velocity field obtained by the Sawyer-Bushby method. The vertical velocity over two radio links is compared with the signal strength. Cross-sections taken through several of the troughs illustrate the stratification changes on the forward and rear sides of the troughs due to vertical motion.
Weighted voting game based multi-robot team formation for distributed area coverage

In the multi-robot area coverage problem, a group of mobile robots have to cover an initially unknown environment using a sensor or coverage tool attached to each robot. Multi-robot area coverage is encountered in many applications of multi-robot systems including unmanned search and rescue, aerial reconnaissance, robotic demining, automatic lawn mowing, and inspection of engineering structures. We envisage that multi-robot coverage can be performed efficiently if robots are coordinated to form small teams while covering the environment. In this paper, we use a technique from coalitional game theory called a weighted voting game that allows each robot to dynamically identify other team members and form teams so that the efficiency of the area coverage operation is improved. We propose and evaluate a novel technique of computing the weights of a weighted voting game based on each robot's coverage capability and finding the best minimal winning coalition (BMWC). We theoretically prove the feasibility of our model, and give algorithms to find the BMWC as well. We have also evaluated the performance of our algorithms within a robot simulation platform using up to 40 robots.
Protein differences among Populus deltoides internodal stem explants determined for shoot regeneration or callus growth

Abstract Protein differences among internodal stem explants that were determined for either shoot regeneration or callus growth were studied by sodium dodecylsulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and two dimensional PAGE. Three 32-kDa proteins with pI values of approximately 6.5–7.5 were detected only in callus inducing (CIM) and shoot inducing (SIM) treatments for which high levels of adventitious shoot regeneration were observed. A 35-kDa protein of approximately p I 7.0 was observed only in the CIM/SIM treatments which resulted in callus determined growth. These proteins may serve as markers to be used to characterize further the molecular events associated with the transition from competence for shoot regeneration to callus determined growth.
Facilitating autonomy in passive-dependent persons: An integrative model

Passive and dependent qualities are commonly found in psychiatric patients suffering from a variety of disorders. While such tendencies are often secondary to an Axis I clinical syndrome, they are occasionally more persistent and refractory. The present article attempts to provide therapeutic guidelines useful when working with clients displaying stable personality traits of passivity and dependency. An attempt is made to adapt and combine several therapeutic techniques to be applicable to passive-dependent clients. More specifically, problem-solving approaches and self-control strategies can be used to facilitate autonomy if precautions are taken to reduce the dogmatic and didactic styles commonly employed with these techniques. The Socratic method of interviewing is posited as a useful means of developing problem-solving skills without creating unnecessary dependence on the therapist. Self-control strategies can help reduce the reliance on others as the primary source of satisfaction for dependent clients. In this way, passive-dependent clients may become more self- reliant and autonomous in their daily functioning.
The Falling Behavior of Hailstones

Abstract A detailed examination and interpretation of hailstone structure and symmetry leads to the conclusion that the normal falling behavior of moderate-to-large hailstones is rapid, symmetrical tumbling. The tumbling behavior is evidently critically sensitive to one or more of the important parameters, such as surface roughness, density distribution, etc., because similar hailstones grow with different symmetries. The concept of aerodynamic molding is found to be inapplicable to the growth and shape of natural hailstones, with the possible exception of small stones and icicle lobe structures. If, as is the conclusion, hailstones tumble while falling, previous deductions of terminal velocities and heat transfer rates may be substantially incorrect.
Child and parent factors that influence psychological problems in obese children

This study assessed the influence of child and parental obesity and parental psychiatric symptoms on psychological problems in obese 8-11-year-old children. Child psychological problems were measured using the Child Behavior Checklist/4-18, whereas adult psychiatric symptoms were measured using the Cornell Medical Index. Multiple linear regression analyses showed parental psychiatric symptoms were related to child psychological problems for six of eight problem behavior scales. Child obesity made no independent contribution to child psychological problems, and parental obesity was related to child problems on only one scale. The most prevalent problems were Anxiety/Depression for 15% of the boys and Social Problems for 20% of the boys and 12.8% of the girls. These results suggest a broader conceptualization of factors that influence behavior problems of obese children than their degree of obesity.
The effect of electron statistics on the ionization potential of small metal clusters

Abstract The ionization potential of a small metal cluster, as a function of N, the number of atoms in the cluster, shows an even-odd or sawtooth variation. We show that this effect, due to electron statistics, can be described using simple bulk-metal models. We analyze it both with the electron gas model and the electron spin-density functional model in the spherical jellium approximation. Both models predict that the even-odd part of the ionization potential varies as 1/N.
Diel Foraging Behavior of American White Pelicans ( )Pelecanus erythrorhynchos ) on Experimental Aquaculture Ponds

Videography and night vision equipment were used to observe the diurnal and nocturnal activities of American white pelicans Pelecanus erythrorhynchos (N=6) foraging on three experimental (0.04 ha) channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) aquaculture ponds in March 2001. Captive pelicans spent most time foraging per hour from 1700 through 2300 h (CST). No foraging was observed from 0700 through 0800 h. Fish captures per hour were greatest from 1700 through 1900 h. On average, captive pelicans (N= 5) consumed 1.0 ± 0.2 kg of catfish per bird per day during the 10-d foraging trial. This consumption corresponds with an average intake of over 60,000 kJ of energy per bird during the trial. Relative to morning hours, the average number of bill dips per min was greater during afternoon foraging bouts. Fish captures per bill dip, however, did not differ among trial hours. Thus, pelicans were observed to increase foraging effort subsequent to 1500 h and thereby consumed 224 to 532 catfish (average = 313 ± 74 fish; N = 4) during the 10-d foraging trial in ponds stocked with approximately 74,000 catfish/ha.
GRIT as a Foundation for Integrative Bargaining

Sixty male subjects first engaged in a Prisoner's Dilemma interaction with a simulated other who either followed a conciliatory strategy (GRIT), a competitive strategy, or a no-message control strategy. They then participated in an integrative bargaining task in which the optimal agreement required logrolling over three commodities. As hypothesized, the subjects in the GRIT condition differed from the others in terms of number arriving at the optimal agreement, their level of aspiration as bargaining opened, and in the content of their communications. The GRIT subjects differed from the competitive subjects on post experimental ratings of the other person and of their objectives on the bargaining task. The results are discussed in terms of conciliation on one task laying the foundation for high aspirations and effective interaction in later integrative bargaining.
A laboratory-based course on internet security

We developed a laboratory-based course on Internet Security. The course is aimed at the senior undergraduate. This paper discusses the course and explains how others can set up their own labs to teach this course. All the laboratory work is conducted in a laboratory of PCs running Linux. We developed lecture notes for the course, and a web site to widely disseminate these materials.
Resonant Rayleigh scattering from an anisotropic organic single-crystal microcavity

Resonant Rayleigh scattering (RRS) is observed upon excitation of a microcavity containing a single crystal of the organic molecule anthracene. The RRS profile is obtained for a range of excitation energies and angles. In contrast to the circular profile observed for inorganic microcavities, the scattered light pattern is elliptical when projected normal to the sample surface. The profile shape provides a direct visual representation of the anisotropic microcavity polariton dispersion characteristic of organic crystals.
A treatise on the use of geostatistics for the characterization of nonrenewable resources

Five decades of geostatistical development are reviewed to summarize the state of the art for spatial interpolation vis-a-vis kriging or a form thereof. Although a search of the literature reveals a variety of kriging methods, there are but two infrastructures for geostatistical interpolation: simple cokriging, for estimating a single variable using two variables, and generalized cokriging, for estimating one or more variables using the same number of variables that are estimated. The many forms of kriging are varieties of these two interpolation infrastructures. This notion is emphasized to aid the selection of an appropriate interpolation model for a nonrenewable resource. These models are discussed, and literature for the models and for applicable software is cited. Additionally, all aspects of spatial interpolation are discussed, including the adequacy of spatial sampling, distribution characteristics of spatial samples, semivariograms, search parameters, and selection of interpolation models in conformance with spatial data characteristics. Finally, the relationship between interpolation and raster-based geographic information systems is emphasized.
The relationship of information science to librarianship—problems and scientific training

Professional librarianship if compared to medicine would have Schools of Hospitalitarianship where eventually the administrators, the professional staff as well as the nonprofessionals would become hospitalitarians. It is suggested that rather than associating the profession with the institution of the library, that it define its function as that of knowledge transfer. The analogy is to an M.D., whose function is to prevent disease and cure people.
Mechanisms of amino acid-mediated lifespan extension in Caenorhabditis elegans

Little is known about the role of amino acids in cellular signaling pathways, especially as it pertains to pathways that regulate the rate of aging. However, it has been shown that methionine or tryptophan restriction extends lifespan in higher eukaryotes and increased proline or tryptophan levels increase longevity in C. elegans. In addition, leucine strongly activates the TOR signaling pathway, which when inhibited increases lifespan. Therefore each of the 20 proteogenic amino acids was individually supplemented to C. elegans and the effects on lifespan were determined. All amino acids except phenylalanine and aspartate extended lifespan at least to a small extent at one or more of the 3 concentrations tested with serine and proline showing the largest effects. 11 of the amino acids were less potent at higher doses, while 5 even decreased lifespan. Serine, proline, or histidine-mediated lifespan extension was greatly inhibited in eat-2 worms, a model of dietary restriction, in daf-16/FOXO, sir-2.1, rsks-1 (ribosomal S6 kinase), gcn-2, and aak-2 (AMPK) longevity pathway mutants, and in bec-1 autophagy-defective knockdown worms. 8 of 10 longevity-promoting amino acids tested activated a SKN-1/Nrf2 reporter strain, while serine and histidine were the only amino acids from those to activate a hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF-1) reporter strain. Thermotolerance was increased by proline or tryptophan supplementation, while tryptophan-mediated lifespan extension was independent of DAF-16/FOXO and SKN-1/Nrf2 signaling, but tryptophan and several related pyridine-containing compounds induced the mitochondrial unfolded protein response and an ER stress response. High glucose levels or mutations affecting electron transport chain (ETC) function inhibited amino acid-mediated lifespan extension suggesting that metabolism plays an important role. Providing many other cellular metabolites to C. elegans also increased longevity suggesting that anaplerosis of tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle substrates likely plays a role in lifespan extension. Supplementation of C. elegans with 18 of the 20 individual amino acids extended lifespan, but lifespan often decreased with increasing concentration suggesting hormesis. Lifespan extension appears to be caused by altered mitochondrial TCA cycle metabolism and respiratory substrate utilization resulting in the activation of the DAF-16/FOXO and SKN-1/Nrf2 stress response pathways.
Accuracy of Cell Mechanical Measurements Using Oscillating Optical Tweezers: A Computational Study

The accurate characterization of living cell micro-mechanical properties is a clinically important problem since several disease pathologies depend on the deformation response of cells to applied mechanical loads. For example, the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is characterized by an increase in the permeability of the alveolar-capillary barrier, resulting in an influx of edema fluid into the lung. Due to the surfactant inactivation and decreased gas exchange, ARDS patients must be mechanically ventilated [1,3]. However, hydrodynamic stresses exerted on the epithelial cells (EpC) that line airway walls during the reopening of the collapsed or fluid-filled airways can lead to further injury known as ventilator-induced lung injury [1].Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Augmentation of T-cell apoptosis by immunosuppressive agents.

The regulatory benefit of apoptosis (activation-induced cell death, AICD) in T cells can be influenced by immunosupressive agents. We examined this for mycophenolate mofetile (MMF, using it's active metabolite, mycophenolate (MPA)) compared with rapamycin (RAPA) and the calcineurin inhibitors (CI) cyclosporin (CYA) and FK506 (FK). Pure T cells from peripheral blood leucocytes (PBL) were stimulated by anti-CD3 plus anti-CD28. Cell division (sequential cohort reduction in carboxyflourescein diacetate succinimidyl ester, CFSE) was used to measure proliferation and determine status of different cell generations without or with added drug at 4 d. Apoptosis was measured by Annexin V staining of activated cells using flow cytometry. We confirmed in this stringent system the inhibition of AICD by CI and showed that RAPA is intermediate and MPA most effective in this potentiation of AICD.
Protein-induced glomerular hyperfiltration: role of hormonal factors.

Protein-induced glomerular hyper filtration: Role of hormonal factors. High protein diets acutely elevate the glomerular filtration rate. To characterize this response we administered 1g of protein/kg body weight as a beef steak meal to nine, healthy male subjects and measured glomerular filtration rate (inulin clearance), renal plasma flow (p-amino hippurate clearance), plasma renin activity, aldosterone and plasma and urinary catecholamines. The subjects ingested the meal on three separate days and were pretreated with either placebo, 50mg indometh-acin (to inhibit renal prostaglandin synthesis), or 10mg enalapril (to inhibit angiotensin II synthesis). Following placebo treatment protein feeding significantly increased the glomerular filtration rate, from a pre-meal level of 101 ± 7 ml/min/L73 m 2 to a post-meal level of 130 ± 6 ml/min/1.73m 2 , P 2 pre-meal level to 118 ±4 ml/min/1.73m 2 post-meal, P > 0.1. Enalapril pretreatment had no significant effect on protein-induced glomerular hyperfiltration. Protein feeding following placebo increased plasma aldosterone concentration while the concentrations were unchanged in the studies where enalapiril or indomethacin was administered. Protein feeding following placebo or indomethacin did not alter plasma renin activity while plasma renin activity rose following enalapril administration. Urinary norepinephrine excretion rose while plasma norepinephrine concentration was unchanged in all three study groups. A decrease in urinary dopamine excretion was also noted four hours after the protein meal was ingested. The urinary PGE 2 excretion was unchanged following protein loading in the studies when placebo was administered, while it fell by 50% in the studies when indomethacin was administered. Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide concentrations were measured in six additional subjects following a protein meal and the levels remained unchanged. Our data indicate that protein-induced elevation of glomerular filtration rate may be mediated by prostaglandins.
Environmental scanning electron microscopy evaluation of tortilla chip microstructure during deep-fat frying

When the baked chip was immersed in the fryer, oil immediately coated and clung to the surface and began to move into the chip. As heat built up within the chip, the moisture turned to steam and exited the chip leaving behind a sponge-like network of tunnels which became filled with oil. The transformations occurred within 20 sec. As frying time increased, (1) starch granules with strong birefringence remained on the surface of the chip, (2) starch granules lost birefringence within the chip, and (3) the interior of the chip became smooth and plastic in appearance as protein, starch and lipids interacted to form a continuous phase that hardened upon dehydration.
Chemical solution deposition of BaSrTiO3 films

Abstract We compared three chemical solution deposition routes to BaxSr1-xTiO3 (BST) films. A metal organic decomposition (MOD) solution composed of barium and strontium acetate, titanium diisopropoxide bis(acetylacetonate), dissolved in a mixture of acetic acid, water and isoproponal resulted in films with spin defects, pinholes, poor crystallization, and poor electrical properties. FTIR spectra revealed a less facile decomposition pathway as indicated by the larger thermal budget required to decompose the titanium precursor, a reduced hydroxy component and increased free CO2. A hybrid route utilizing acetic acid modified barium, strontium and titanium isopropoxides resulted in films with better crystallinity and a reduced carbonate content in the FTIR spectra. The best BST films were obtained from a sol gel route utilizing barium, strontium and titanium 2-methoxyethoxides. The films had minimal carbonate content in the FTIR spectra, crystallized at 700 °C, and had dielectric constants up to 400 with lea...
Biguanide related compounds in traditional antidiabetic functional foods

Biguanides such as metformin are widely used worldwide for the treatment of type-2 diabetes. The identification of guanidine and related compounds in French lilac plant (Galega officinalis L.) led to the development of biguanides. Despite of their plant origin, biguanides have not been reported in plants. The objective of this study was to quantify biguanide related compounds (BRCs) in experimentally or clinically substantiated antidiabetic functional plant foods and potatoes. The corrected results of the Voges-Proskauer (V-P) assay suggest that the highest amounts of BRCs are present in green curry leaves (Murraya koenigii (L.) Sprengel) followed by fenugreek seeds (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.), green bitter gourd (Momordica charantia Descourt.), and potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). Whereas, garlic (Allium sativum L.), and sweet potato (Ipomea batatas (L.) Lam.) contain negligible amounts of BRCs. In addition, the possible biosynthetic routes of biguanide in these plant foods are discussed.
N-Acetylcysteine Reduces Extinction Responding and Induces Enduring Reductions in Cue- and Heroin-Induced Drug-Seeking

Background Previous studies show that the acute administration of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) inhibits the desire for cocaine in addicts and cocaine-seeking in animals. Methods Rats were trained to self-administer heroin, and the reinstatement model of drug seeking was used to determine whether chronic NAC treatment inhibited heroin-seeking. Results Daily NAC administration inhibited cue- and heroin-induced seeking. Moreover, repeated NAC administration during extinction training reduced extinction-responding and inhibited cue- and heroin-induced reinstatement for up to 40 days after discontinuing daily NAC injection. Conclusions These data show that daily NAC inhibits heroin-induced reinstatement and produces an enduring reduction in cue- and heroin-induced drug seeking for over 1 month after the last injection of NAC. Both the inhibitory effect of NAC on the reinstatement of heroin-seeking and the ability of NAC to reduce extinction-responding support clinical evaluation of repeated NAC administration to decrease in drug-seeking in heroin addicts.
520 FOLLOW-UP OF ESOPHAGEAL FUNCTION IN REPAIRED ESOPHA GEAL ATRESIA

Recent studies in patients with repair of esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula show a high incidence of significant abnormalities of esophageal function. We have studied 20 patients operated on over the past 12 years. Ages ranged from 4 months to 12 years (av. 5.9 yrs). Studies included history, esophageal manometry, pH probe acid reflux test (Tuttle) and barium esophagram. The only symptom present was occasional dysphagia for solid foods in 5 patients. Three had had a coin removed and 4 had required dilatation. Seven patients had a history of pneumonia. Only 1 patient had a lower esophageal sphincter pressure less than 12mm Hg. In 5, peristalsis was abnormal by manometry and in 5 by esophagram. However, only 1 patient was in both groups. Minimal reflux was seen in 5 patients by esophagram and in 6 by Tuttle test. Only 1 patient was in both groups. As the patients became older, symptoms decreased. This study reveals fewer severe abnormalities than previously described. Minimal reflux seems to occur frequently without sequellae and most problems in our patients were related to esophageal narrowing requiring dilatation.
Performance based mortgage-backed securities indexing

The traditional approaches to indexing first developed for equities and then adapted to bonds are not effective for mortgage-backed securities. This paper details a new technique for indexing portfolios of mortgage-backed securities which rectifies the deficiencies of the older cellular method. By focusing on the performance characteristics of the bonds adjusted for their embedded options, we at once simplify the process of portfolio selection and increase the accuracy of performance tracking.
Folklore and Basque Nationalism: Language, Myth, Reality

Abstract. This article establishes a precise relationship between folklore and ethno-nationalism. In particular, it argues that the discursive elements of folklore have been used, as political narrative, within the history of Basque nationalism. The Basque nationalist movement, throughout its history, has been especially adept at harnessing the rhetorical power of language, history, myth and memory in its articulation of a Basque, as opposed to a Spanish, identity. The article concentrates on the specific information selected for transmission by the ideology of Basque nationalism. It is this articulation which establishes links between past and present, myth and ideology, and the relationship between culture and identity in the human experience. These are the bonds which are perhaps most pertinent to the general cause of ethno-nationalism, and the Basque case in particular.
Language and compiler support for auto-tuning variable-accuracy algorithms

Approximating ideal program outputs is a common technique for solving computationally difficult problems, for adhering to processing or timing constraints, and for performance optimization in situations where perfect precision is not necessary. To this end, programmers often use approximation algorithms, iterative methods, data resampling, and other heuristics. However, programming such variable accuracy algorithms presents difficult challenges since the optimal algorithms and parameters may change with different accuracy requirements and usage environments. This problem is further compounded when multiple variable accuracy algorithms are nested together due to the complex way that accuracy requirements can propagate across algorithms and because of the size of the set of allowable compositions. As a result, programmers often deal with this issue in an ad-hoc manner that can sometimes violate sound programming practices such as maintaining library abstractions. In this paper, we propose language extensions that expose trade-offs between time and accuracy to the compiler. The compiler performs fully automatic compile-time and installtime autotuning and analyses in order to construct optimized algorithms to achieve any given target accuracy. We present novel compiler techniques and a structured genetic tuning algorithm to search the space of candidate algorithms and accuracies in the presence of recursion and sub-calls to other variable accuracy code. These techniques benefit both the library writer, by providing an easy way to describe and search the parameter and algorithmic choice space, and the library user, by allowing high level specification of accuracy requirements which are then met automatically without the need for the user to understand any algorithm-specific parameters. Additionally, we present a new suite of benchmarks, written in our language, to examine the efficacy of our techniques. Our experimental results show that by relaxing accuracy requirements, we can easily obtain performance improvements ranging from 1.1× to orders of magnitude of speedup.
The Foster Care Crisis: What Caused Caseloads to Grow?

Foster care caseloads more than doubled from 1985 to 2000. This article provides the first comprehensive study of this growth by relating state-level foster care caseloads to state-specific characteristics and policies. We present evidence that increases in female incarcerations and reductions in cash welfare benefits played dominant roles in explaining the growth in foster care caseloads over this period. Our results highlight the need for child welfare policies designed specifically for the children of incarcerated parents and parents who are facing less generous welfare programs.
Suppressor of fused and Spop regulate the stability, processing and function of Gli2 and Gli3 full-length activators but not their repressors

Gli2 and Gli3 are primary transcriptional regulators that mediate hedgehog (Hh) signaling. Mechanisms that stabilize and destabilize Gli2 and Gli3 are essential for the proteins to promptly respond to Hh signaling or to be inactivated following the activation. In this study, we show that loss of suppressor of fused (Sufu; an inhibitory effector for Gli proteins) results in destabilization of Gli2 and Gli3 full-length activators but not of their C-terminally processed repressors, whereas overexpression of Sufu stabilizes them. By contrast, RNAi knockdown of Spop (a substrate-binding adaptor for the cullin3-based ubiquitin E3 ligase) in Sufu mutant mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) can restore the levels of Gli2 and Gli3 full-length proteins, but not those of their repressors, whereas introducing Sufu into the MEFs stabilizes Gli2 and Gli3 full-length proteins and rescues Gli3 processing. Consistent with these findings, forced Spop expression promotes Gli2 and Gli3 degradation and Gli3 processing. The functions of Sufu and Spop oppose each other through their competitive binding to the N- and C-terminal regions of Gli3 or the C-terminal region of Gli2. More importantly, the Gli3 repressor expressed by a Gli3 mutant allele (Gli3Δ699) can mostly rescue the ventralized neural tube phenotypes of Sufu mutant embryos, indicating that the Gli3 repressor can function independently of Sufu. Our study provides a new insight into the regulation of Gli2 and Gli3 stability and processing by Sufu and Spop, and reveals the unexpected Sufu-independent Gli3 repressor function.
Detoxification of pyrogens by hydrogen peroxide in some U.S. P. injections.

Abstract The detoxification of pyrogens by boiling with a low concentration of hydrogen peroxide has been found applicable to water for injection, normal saline solution, and dextrose and sodium chloride injection. Excess peroxide is decomposed with manganese dioxide, or in the case of dextrose-saline, by activated charcoal. Selas candle filtration removes the decomposing agent. The method produces no significant alteration in the composition of the injection fluids.
Coronary artery calcium screening: implications for clinical practice

Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death in the Western hemisphere, and in the majority of cases the event announcing the presence of atherosclerosis is either sudden death or a disabling myocardial infarction or stroke. Although traditional risk factors are present in most individuals suffering a cardiovascular event, the prognostic ability of risk factors to predict events in the short term is limited. The focus of research has therefore turned to the application of noninvasive modalities to image the atherosclerotic plaque in its preclinical stages. Measurements of coronary artery calcium serve as a quantitative reflection of the severity of coronary artery disease, and greater calcium burdens correlate with more advanced disease. Coronary artery calcium has been shown in several studies to add prognostic value to traditional risk factors in patients at intermediate risk, and in this group of patients it may be cost effective. There is, however, an inherent danger in raising the cost of care by increasing downstream unnecessary testing if such screening were to be applied to low-risk individuals. This article is a systematic review of the most relevant